It's a strange world indeed—some agonize over breasts that are too small, while others fret over breasts that are too large! Excessively large breasts constitute macromastia, which can compromise physical health and overall body proportion. Therefore, macromastia reduction surgery is performed. Below is an overview of the procedure and preoperative considerations.
Procedure for Breast Reduction Surgery
Prior to surgery, the desired outcomes must be determined based on the patient's body type and other factors. This includes the post-operative breast size, position, shape, and the placement of the areola and nipple. Corresponding markings are then made on the breasts.With these preparations in place, the plastic surgeon performing the reduction can proceed with confidence.
The first step involves anesthesia, typically general anesthesia. Three incisions are made: one encircling the areola,A second incision runs vertically downward from the base of the areola to the inframammary fold. The third incision follows the natural curve of the breast fold. After excising excess breast tissue, fat, and skin, the surgeon elevates the nipple-areola complex to a higher position. The areola, often enlarged due to stretching, is reduced in size. Skin above the areola is pulled downward and sutured around it to reshape the breast.Once the desired breast size and shape are achieved, the incisions are closed.
Preoperative Considerations for Breast Reduction Surgery
Preoperative Considerations for Breast Reduction Surgery 1. Avoid taking medications containing aspirin for two weeks prior to surgery, as aspirin reduces platelet clotting function;
Preoperative Considerations for Breast Reduction Surgery 2. Patients with hypertension or diabetes should fully disclose their medical history during the initial consultation to enable the attending physician to confirm the surgical plan;
Preoperative Considerations for Breast Reduction Surgery 3. Ensure good overall health prior to surgery, free from infectious diseases, other inflammatory conditions, or a family history of breast cancer;
Preoperative Considerations for Breast Reduction Surgery 4. Avoid surgery during menstruation or pregnancy. Additionally, breast reduction should not be performed within 6 months of breastfeeding;
If you smoke, you should quit before undergoing breast reduction surgery. Aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory medications may increase bleeding risk, so discontinue these drugs for a period before surgery. Additional instructions may be provided. Breast reduction surgery is typically performed on an inpatient basis.
The procedure is performed in a hospital operating room under general anesthesia, keeping you asleep throughout. After surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery room. Drainage tubes are placed in the surgical area to prevent fluid buildup around the chest, and the site is covered with dressings and bandaged.Depending on your occupation, you may return to work within two weeks after breast reduction surgery. Many individuals resume most work activities, including light exercise, within several weeks. During this period, you may experience intermittent mild discomfort, which is normal. Report any severe pain to your physician. Avoid sexual activity for at least two weeks, though your doctor may recommend a longer interval. Exercise extreme caution with your breasts for six weeks.