Breast reduction FAQ:

1. Who can undergo Breast Reduction ?

You can undergo Breast Reduction surgery if :

• You are physically healthy
• You have realistic expectations
• You don’t smoke
• You are bothered by feeling that your breasts are too large
• You have breasts that limit your physical activity
• You experience back, neck and shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breasts
• You have shoulder indentations from bra straps
• You have skin irritation beneath the breast crease

2. What is the right age to undergo ? Are the results permanent ? 

The breast reduction procedure can be performed at any age, but is best done when your breasts are fully developed. Changes in the breasts during pregnancy can alter the outcomes of previous breast reduction surgery, as can significant weight fluctuations

3. What should I know about Breast reduction?

• Breast reduction surgery can interfere with certain diagnostic procedures
• Breast and nipple piercing can cause an infection
• Your ability to breastfeed following reduction mammaplasty may be limited; talk to your doctor if you are planning to nurse a baby
• The operation is carried out under general anaesthetic, and you will need to stay in hospital for one or two nights.
• Excess fat may be removed through liposuction in conjunction with the excision techniques, creating circular or key hole or inverted T scar.
• The technique used will be determined by your individual condition, breast composition, amount of reduction desired, your personal preferences and the surgeon’s advice.

4. What are the preparations to be done before breast reduction ?

You must STOP the following medications approximately 2 weeks before surgery – blood thinners such as ecosprin, clopidogrel, warfarin etc, estrogen containing hormones, Vitamin E, ginseng, green tea, gingko balboa, garlic pearls, ayurvedic supplements. It is imperative that you completely stop smoking for a minimum of 1 week prior to your planned date of surgery. You will be advised a set of routine pre-operative investigations to ensure that you are fit for anaesthesia and surgery.

5. Is Mammogram Necessary before Breast Reduction ?

A mammogram is also advisable prior to surgery to rule out any existing lumps or lesions in the breast. If you have a personal or family history of breast cancer, then a baseline mammogram is mandatory to ensure absence of any existing lesion.

6. What are the Possible breast reduction surgery risks ?

Apart from the incidental complications which can happen with any surgery like Infection, Anesthesia risks,Allergies to tape, suture materials, blood products, topical preparations or injectable agents; Bleeding, Poor wound healing, specific risks include :

• Blood / Fluid accumulation which usually resolves or may be aspirated or rarely may need surgical evacuation again.
• Fatty tissue deep in the skin could die (fat necrosis)
• Breast contour and shape irregularities
• Changes in nipple or breast sensation, which may be temporary or permanent
• Skin discolouration and Unfavourable scarring
• rare issues like Damage to deeper structures, Potential, partial or total loss of nipple and areola, Possibility of revisional surgery

7. What is the expected Recovery From Breast Reduction Surgery?

You can resume non-strenuous activities by  1 week and routine work by 2 weeks after surgery. Bending forward, lifting hands above head and exercises will require 4 weeks after surgery. The scars settle well in about 3 months. You will be required to wear a supportive bra (eg a sports bra) for up to 3 months, day and night to keep the breasts well supported whilst healing takes place and ultimately to give you the best possible results. 

The results of your breast reduction surgery are immediately visible. Over time, post-surgical swelling will resolve.Satisfaction with your new image should continue to grow as you recover.