Introduction

Reduction mammoplasty may solve problems caused by very big and fallen breasts, which can range from neck, ear, back pains and skin rush to skeleton deformities and breathing problems. Other smaller but present problems are the difficulty in finding bras and clothes for your size. These difficulties reflect in a negative way in woman's mind in the same way small breasts do. Breast reduction has been practiced since the '50 and since then many women have benefited from these surgery results.

What patients can benefit from breast reduction?

Reduction mammoplasty concerns women with very big and "fallen" (ptotic) breasts. There is no physical exercise or medical treatment that can solve this handicap.
On the initial examination it is important to discuss with the surgeon your expectations because every person has a different view in regard to the size and shape of the breasts and to the scars. You should also talk about the nipple and areola position and you must understand what type of scar will result.

Surgery risks

There is no surgery without risks. Because it is a big surgery, the risks must be discussed in detail with the surgeon and the anesthesiologist before the surgery.
Besides the risks common to any general anesthesia surgery, infections, hematomas which can make for unaesthetic scars appear. Even without these complications, the surgery leaves visible and permanent scars. The healing is difficult and with broad scars especially with smokers.
Nipple sensitivity changes can set in and seldom are these permanent. The surgery can leave you with slightly asymmetric breasts or with the nipples or areola at different heights. On very rare occasions the surgery may cause the permanent loss of breast-feeding capabilities, because it cuts through many galactofor channels.
Breast reduction is not a simple surgery but normally it is safe if is done by an experienced plastic surgeon.

Indications