Breast Reduction
Breast reduction surgery is called reduction mammaplasty as a medical term. These procedures are generally preferred due to health problems or aesthetic concerns caused by excessively large or sagging breasts.
Surgery can be used to prevent medical problems such as back and shoulder pain caused by large breasts, wounds under the breast and infections. In addition, this operation can be performed to lift sagging breasts after breastfeeding or to reduce the feeling of pressure caused by bra straps.
Breast reduction surgery offers an option to both eliminate health problems and eliminate aesthetic concerns. Our clinic aims to achieve the results you dream of by applying these applications professionally.
Breast Reduction Operation
Breast reduction surgery can be performed for medical reasons as well as aesthetic concerns. Today, the application is preferred due to aesthetic problems and medical problems that arise as a result of excessively large breasts
For example, aesthetic concerns such as sagging caused by large breasts, lack of symmetry in appearance, and difficulties in finding suitable clothes are among the main reasons for the operation. From a medical point of view,
- Struggling with shoulder, neck and back pain due to the weight of large breasts
- Prevent hunchback
- To prevent diaper rash, fungus, infection or wound formation under the breast
- This operation can be performed to prevent pressure sores caused by bra straps.
Various factors such as the size of the breasts, the lifestyle of the person, genetic factors, hormonal changes and age can cause the breasts to grow or change their shape.
The purpose of breast reduction surgery is to obtain breasts in the desired size, symmetrical, equal size and with the least possible scarring. In this way, it is aimed that patients are both aesthetically satisfied and get rid of medical problems. Our clinic carefully performs these applications according to the goals of the people.
How is Breast Reduction Applied?
Breast reduction surgery is generally a preferred surgical procedure after the completion of body development, that is, in individuals aged 18 and over. This operation is performed by removing excess fat tissue under the breast and skin.
In addition to hormonal changes, the completion of physical development is important for the surgery to be performed safely and effectively. Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Although it may vary, it can take between 2.5 and 4 hours depending on the breast size.
Among the techniques used during the surgery are lollipop and inverted T incision methods. The lollipop incision is a circular incision around the nipple and allows the nipple to be moved up when necessary. The inverted T incision method is an inverted T-shaped incision in the lower part of the breast. In both methods, the operation is completed by removing breast tissue and excess skin.
It is recommended that the patient stay in the hospital for one day during the recovery period after breast reduction surgery. After the removal of the drains, he can rest at home and return to her daily life after 1 week. However, he may feel a slight discomfort for 6 to 12 months after the operation.
Will There Be Any Scars After Breast Reduction Surgery?
It is quite common to have scars after breast reduction surgery. However, scars may vary depending on the type of operation. In lollipop-type operations, scars are usually less pronounced. Because the amount of incision is less and is usually located around the nipple. Therefore, the difference between the nipple and the skin is almost imperceptible.
In inverted T type operations, scars may be more pronounced. In addition to the incisions made from the nipple downwards, the horizontal line at the fold point of the breast can also be seen. However, over time, these scars gain skin color and become less pronounced. The size and shape of the scar varies depending on the structure of the breast tissue and skin, the details of the operation and the techniques applied by the surgeon.
Despite the presence of scars after breast reduction surgery, most patients are satisfied with the aesthetic result of the operation. The scars are usually insignificant compared to the physical and emotional relief provided by the operation.
What Should Be Considered After Breast Reduction Surgery?
It is also necessary to take certain precautions for the efficient recovery process after breast reduction surgery. Resting and resting for the first few days can accelerate postoperative relaxation and recovery. Regular use of antibiotics and painkillers recommended by your doctor supports the healing process and reduces the risk of infection.
A sports bra can help shape the breast by reducing pain by providing appropriate support to the breast tissue. Determining the dressing days can support tissue healing by reducing the risk of infection in the surgical area.
Another point to be considered after surgery is to avoid heavy loads. Avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous movements for about four weeks ensures that the delicate healing process of the breast tissue is respected.
Swelling and edema in the tissue after breast reduction is a normal condition. This condition decreases within a few weeks and it may take up to a year for the breasts to reach their actual size. It is recommended to stay away from smoking and alcohol consumption to speed up the healing process. These substances can adversely affect cell regeneration and increase the visibility of the surgical scar.
Who Can Benefit From Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery is suitable for every adult woman. The accepted age limit for this is 18. The continuation of breast development in women until the age of 18 is the most important reason for this situation. People who do not have any risky mass in the breast area with the age limit or who do not have a condition that prevents surgery are suitable candidates for breast reduction surgery. Many women today seek physicians for breast reduction surgery. Women who apply for breast reduction surgery generally complain about the following:
- Physical Discomfort: Large breasts can cause shoulder, back, and neck pain, posture problems, and deep chest grooves. Such discomforts can negatively affect daily activities and quality of life. Moreover, they can hinder engaging in sports or maintaining an active lifestyle.
- Psychological Effects: Large breast sizes can negatively affect women’s self-confidence and body image. Feelings of discomfort in social interactions, psychological stress, and even depression can be associated with this condition, especially for young women during adolescence.
- Aesthetic Concerns: Some women may request breast reduction surgery because they feel that large breast sizes appear disproportionate to their bodies. This concern may be related to clothing choices that limit or cause discomfort to the individual.
How is Breast Reduction Procedure Applied?
Breast reduction surgery typically involves making surgical incisions and removing excess breast tissue. During the operation, an appropriate technique is chosen based on factors such as the patient’s breast size, skin elasticity, distribution of breast tissue, and desired outcomes. Commonly used techniques include:
- Lollipop Technique: In this technique, an incision is made around the nipple extending downwards and ending at the crease under the breast. Excess breast tissue and skin are removed from this area, and the breast is reshaped. This technique is ideal for patients requiring moderate breast reduction.
- Anchor (Inverted-T) Technique: This technique involves making a downward incision from the nipple similar to the lollipop method, but in addition, a horizontal incision is made under the breast to create an inverted-T shape. This allows for the removal of more tissue and more dramatic reshaping, suitable for correcting severe breast sagging.
Risks and Side Effects of Breast Reduction Surgery
Although breast reduction surgery is generally a safe procedure, there may be some risks and side effects. These may include infection, bleeding, anesthesia reactions, wound dehiscence, sensory loss, changes in nipple sensitivity, scar visibility, and asymmetry. However, these complications are rare and can be minimized under the care of an experienced surgeon.
Results and Expected Process of Breast Reduction Surgery
The results of breast reduction surgery are generally positive for patients. Positive outcomes such as reduction of physical discomfort, improvement in body image, and increased self-confidence are commonly reported. However, the full recovery process and visibility of results may take several weeks or months. Regular follow-ups and compliance with the surgeon’s recommendations are crucial for successful recovery.
Cost and Insurance Coverage of Breast Reduction Surgery
The cost of breast reduction surgery may vary depending on the techniques used, the surgeon’s experience, and the patient’s needs. In some cases, insurance companies may cover such surgeries depending on medical necessity. However, insurance coverage and payment options may vary from patient to patient, so it is important to contact the insurance company in advance.
Psychosocial Effects of Breast Reduction Surgery
In addition to the physical effects, the psychosocial effects of breast reduction surgery are also important. After this surgery, women may experience increased self-confidence, feel more comfortable in social interactions, and generally improve their quality of life. Therefore, women considering breast reduction surgery can expect both physical and emotional healing and satisfaction.
