Breast Reduction
This webpage will give you information about a breast reduction.
If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant
health professional.
What is a breast reduction?
A breast reduction is a cosmetic operation to
make your breasts smaller, and sometimes to improve their
shape.
What are the benefits of surgery?
If the operation is successful, your breasts should be smaller
and have a better shape.
Are there any alternatives to surgery?
If you are overweight, you may be able to reduce the size of
your breasts by as much as one cup size by losing weight.
You may find it easier to cope with large breasts by wearing a
custom-made bra or corset.
What does the operation involve?
The operation is performed under a general anaesthetic and
usually takes about an hour and a half.
Your surgeon will make a cut on the line of the areola (the dark
area around the nipple) and a vertical cut underneath your areola.
They will remove some of the breast tissue, excess fat and skin.
Your surgeon will reshape your breast and lift your nipple so it is
in a higher position (see figure 1).
Figure 1
a Excess fat and skin are removed
b The breast is re-shaped and nipple lifted
c The cuts leave an anchor-shaped scar
What complications can happen?
1 General complications
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Infection in a surgical wound
- Unsightly scarring
- Blood clots
2 Specific complications
- Developing a lump or swelling inside the breast
- Numbness or persistent pain on the outer part of the
breast
- Loss of skin, including the areola and nipple
- Stiff shoulder
- Change of breast and nipple sensation
- Reduced ability to breastfeed
- Cosmetic problems
How soon will I recover?
Your breasts will look discoloured and feel firm and
swollen.
You should be able to go home the following day.
Most women return to normal activities within two to three
weeks.
You should be able to return to work after the first week,
depending on your type of job. You should be able to do a limited
amount of activity, such as lifting young children, after about two
weeks.
Regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities
as soon as possible. Before you start exercising, you should ask a
member of the healthcare team or your GP for advice.
The results of a breast reduction improve gradually over time.
Your breasts should become softer and more natural.
Summary
A breast reduction is a cosmetic operation to make your breasts
smaller. It is only suitable for certain women. You should consider
the options carefully and have realistic expectations about the
results.
Acknowledgements
Author: Mr Eoin O'Broin MD FRCS (Plast) and Mr Graham Offer BSc
FRCS (Plast)
Illustrations: Mr Eoin O'Broin MD FRCS (Plast)
This document is intended for information purposes only and
should not replace advice that your relevant health professional
would give you.
Copyright © 2011 EIDO Healthcare Limited
The operation and treatment information on this website is produced
by EIDO Healthcare Ltd and is licensed by Ramsay Health Care
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The information should not replace advice that your relevant
health professional would give you.