Breast reduction is a popular surgical procedure that removes fat tissue from the breasts to reshape them and reduce their size. It’s usually done to lift the nipple and areola to a higher position, or to reduce various pains.
But though it’s a fairly common procedure, there’s not much talk about it, at least not as much as breast augmentation. Here are all you need to know about this process: the pros, the cons, and what else to expect.
Why Get This Surgery?
As with any cosmetic surgery, the purpose of a breast reduction is to either make someone more content with their physical appearance or correct a flow that’s affecting them.
Large breasts can cause several degrees of back or neck pains, which can lead to posture problems. The extra weight pulling the upper body to bend forwards can be extremely uncomfortable. Not to mention, it can affect a person’s performance in sports or other physical activities.
In other cases, it may be just a purely aesthetic reason. Larger breasts can make a person feel very self-conscious, and they may avoid wearing specific clothing because of some unwanted attention. Over time, larger breasts can begin to sag or lose firmness, and a breast reduction surgery can correct that.
The bottom line is that this type of plastic surgery will improve some aspect of your life, either your health or your confidence.
Does It Work?
A breast reduction can have a lot of positive effects on patients. It leaves the breasts feeling firm, even lighter, and more proportioned to the body. After the surgery, back and neck pain caused by large breasts can disappear.
What Are the Risks?
Any form of surgical procedure comes with some risks, so it’s important to be aware of them before you make a decision:
- Scars: Surgery can leave visible scars on the breasts, but they typically fade in time;
- Adverse reactions to the anesthesia: These reactions can vary from person to person. In most cases, you will be placed under general anesthesia, but the doctor will do some tests before to see how you’ll react to it.
- Disappointing results: That’s always a possibility. However, it may have more to do with the choice of the surgeon than the procedure itself.
Do They Grow Back?
Technically, a breast reduction surgery is a permanent procedure, so you don’t have to do it regularly to maintain the results. However, shifts in weight or pregnancy can change the size and shape of the breasts even after surgery.
Does It Affect Breastfeeding?
Breast reduction surgery goes across the milk ducts, so it is possible for the procedure to affect breastfeeding. However, the level of impact the surgery can have on it is a bit unclear, so it would be best to discuss this aspect with your doctor. He can shed some light on the possible outcomes and maybe even recommend postponing surgery if you’re still planning on having children.
Does Insurance Cover It?
If you undergo this procedure because of medical reason, then some insurance companies may cover it. Still, it’s best to check directly with your provider to make sure.
Is It for You?
If you’ve decided to have the surgery or still have some questions, then schedule an appointment at the Advanced Center for Plastic Surgery and take the first step towards a new life!
