Do you need breast reduction surgery?
Before you make the decision to change your body, take a look at your top
questions answered.
How Common Are Breast Reduction
Procedures?
According to the American Society of
Plastic Surgeons' (ASPS) 2018 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report, breast
augmentation is the top cosmetic surgical procedure. While augmentation
accounts for the bulk of cosmetic surgeries performed in the United States,
more than 43,500 women chose breast reduction surgery in 2018.
Who Performs a Breast Reduction Surgery?
This specialized cosmetic surgery requires
a licensed medical doctor who has extensive training in the procedure. A family
physician, general surgeon, or medical doctor who typically practices in
another area (such as dermatology or pediatrics) should not perform a breast
reduction surgery.
You need to feel comfortable with the
surgeon before you agree to a procedure. An initial consultation will help you
to learn more about the surgeon and their work. Ask to see before and after photos
or for past patient references. These can help you to make an informed choice
and better understand the results to expect.
Should You Choose a Breast Reduction
Surgery?
The decision to choose this, or any,
cosmetic surgery is personal. Many different reasons may factor into your
choice to have a procedure or not. While candidates for this surgery typically
have issues such as breast weight-related neck or back pain, chronic
under-the-breast rashes, or serious body image satisfaction, you need to make sure
the decision to go into the operating room is right for you.
If you're not sure whether your breasts are
the true cause of back or neck pain, talk to a licensed cosmetic surgeon. A
physical examination may reveal whether your breasts are at fault for aches,
pains, and other discomfort or you have another physical issue. Along with the
exam, a surgeon can review the pros and cons of the surgery and help you to
make the most informed decision possible.
Is Breast Reduction Surgery Risky?
Any surgery comes with risks - especially
when you add anesthesia. But that doesn't mean you should skip surgery out of
fear. While it's normal to feel some level of pre-surgical anxiety, a skilled
medical doctor will take the necessary steps to reduce the risks and provide
you with a safe surgical environment.
Like with other surgeries, the doctor will
review the risks prior to your procedure day. The surgeon will consider your
medical history, medications, and individual needs. You may need to stop some
types of medications or supplements before the surgery to minimize
interactions, bleeding, and other issues.
Is Breast Reduction Surgery Painful?
The surgery itself isn't painful for the
patient. Sedation and general anesthesia provide you with a restful procedure
that you won't feel. Even though you won't feel pain during the surgery, you
may have discomfort as you heal after the procedure. Discuss pain management
options, such as medications, with your doctor before the surgery.
How Long Does Is Breast Reduction
Surgery Recovery?
The surgeon will review recovery
instructions before your procedure. Always follow the doctor's directions.
While the instructions may include activity restrictions you don't agree with
or feel you can't maintain, failure to comply with the doctor's orders may
cause post-surgical problems or add to the discomfort.
Surgical anesthesia will limit your ability
to make important decisions or drive immediately after your procedure. Another
adult should come with you to the surgery and drive you home. You may need to
remain at home, in bed or resting, for the first few days after surgery. This
means no driving, going to the gym, or any other activity.
While you can resume some activities after
a few weeks (depending on your physical needs), you should avoid heavy lifting
and strenuous activities for six weeks or longer post-surgery.
Do you want to learn more about breast reduction
surgery? Contact the office of
Ronald C.
Barry, MD
, for more information.
