Breast Reduction
Breast reduction surgery will reduce the weight and size of your breasts which results in significant relief for patients asking for this surgery. Combined with physiotherapy it can be effective at treating back pain and improving posture. The results are permanent although breast size can be affected by hormone changes such as pregnancy. Most patients are really happy with the results after a breast reduction procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
1What does surgery involve?
Before surgery you will be marked to determine the new height of your nipple and the placement of your scars. Once asleep the excess skin and breast tissue is removed. Stitches are placed to reform the shape of the breast and a dressing is placed on the skin.
2How can I prepare for surgery?
You will need to buy a post-surgical front-fastening bra. You should buy a selection of sizes. You will need to wear the bra day and night for 6 weeks after surgery. You should stop smoking 6 weeks prior to surgery and follow any advice about your medication.
3What are the risks of surgery?
These will be discussed in the clinic. Please note a specific cup size cannot be guaranteed but you can express a preference. The tissue that is removed is sent for analysis.
4What is the post-operative recovery?
Your wounds will usually be healed in 2 weeks. Occasionally areas can take up to 6 weeks to heal. You will need to wear your post-surgical bra day and night for 6 weeks.
5What about breast feeding?
If you have not started or completed your family you should consider the possibility that you will not be able to breastfeed. Patients are told they will not be able to breastfeed but you may still wish to try and some patients are successful.
6What about mammograms?
When having mammograms in the future you should let them know you have had surgery. There is a higher chance you will be recalled to check an area in the breast but there is no increased chance of getting breast cancer after this surgery.
You may be advised to get a mammogram prior to having surgery. This could be related to a high-risk family history or if you are due for a mammogram on the national screening programme. Miss Jackson will advise you when you come for your out-patient appointment.
7Will my breasts grow big again in the future?
Your breasts will continue to change shape with you. In particular with hormone changes such as pregnancy and breastfeeding your breasts will alter.
- Surgical time – 2-3 hours
- Anaesthetic type – General anaesthetic
- Time off work – 1-2 weeks office work, 2-6 weeks manual work
- Hospital stay – 0-1 nights
- Shower – immediately
- Reasonably mobile – 2-7 days
- Sleeping position – back or side
- Exercise including gym – 6 weeks
- Bras and garments – front fastening post-op bra for 6 weeks day and night
- Sexual activity – after 1-2 weeks when comfortable
- Full recovery – 6 weeks
- Driving – 1-2 weeks