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Breast reduction
Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure designed to reduce the size of the breasts and create an improved breast shape and form.
Large breasts can cause pain in the breasts, back, shoulders, and neck. Some patients may experience problems with posture, shoulder grooves from bra straps, or skin discomfort. Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue and excess skin, reshaping the breasts to be in better proportion to the rest of your body. During the process, the nipple (which is droopy on a large breast) is elevated to a new, more aesthetically-pleasing position on the breast mound. Some liposuction of the chest may be performed at the same time to improve the resulting shape of the new breast.
Key facts
Frequently asked questions
Will breast reduction affect nipple sensation?
While changes in nipple sensation (it could be an increase or decrease in sensation) are a concern for most patients undergoing breast reduction, most are temporary and resolve within a few months as the nerves recover. There is however, a risk of permanent sensation changes
Will I need another breast reduction surgery after pregnancy?
Pregnancy and breastfeeding have unpredictable effects on breast size and shape. Breast volume may increase significantly after pregnancy and breastfeeding. Some patients will request a secondary breast reduction for adjustments in breast volume after pregnancy and breastfeeding. For breast sagging with no volume changes, breast lifting surgery is appropriate.
Can I breastfeed after breast reduction surgery?
Studies have shown that women who have undergone breast reduction surgery are still able to breastfeed at a rate that is similar to women who have not had surgery. If you have a baby after breast reduction surgery, we encourage you to try breastfeeding if that is important to you. Still, the ability to breastfeed after the procedure can depend on several factors, including the surgical technique used. The technique used by Dr. Natasha Ilako aims to preserve the milk ducts and nipples’ connection to the glandular tissue, making breastfeeding possible.
What will my scars look like?
In most cases, breast reduction incisions are placed around the areola, vertically down from the areola to the breast crease, and horizontally along the breast crease to create an “anchor” shape. Initially, scars may be dark, raised, and noticeable, but they will fade over a period of 12 to 18 months depending on patient factors such as a predisposition to keloid scarring.
How long before I can exercise?
We recommend no strenuous exercise for a period of 6 weeks.
How old do you have to be to get breast reduction surgery?
At 4407 Plastic surgery, we only perform surgery for those over the age of 18 years. However, for patients with juvenile gigantomastia resulting in severe medical and psychological impact, we can consider surgery on a case-by-case basis with full parental consent.
