Breast Reduction
Breast reduction surgery is performed by surgically removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin tissue. Such an operation can be applied not only for aesthetic purposes but also to treat some health problems for women with large and dense breast tissue. Excessive growth of breast tissue can cause musculoskeletal problems. These conditions can lead to chronic back, shoulder, or neck pain and can also cause nerve damage or loss of function in the chest area due to the large breast size. Additionally, issues such as inflammation and redness under the breasts may occur. These situations can restrict physical activities and negatively impact the person's quality of life psychologically. Therefore, in such cases, breast reduction surgery may be preferred.
How is Breast Reduction Performed?
Breast reduction surgery is a surgical operation performed under general or local anesthesia. During this operation, excess fat, connective tissue, glandular tissue, and some skin tissue in the breast are removed using surgical methods. If necessary, techniques such as liposuction can be used to specifically remove excess fat tissue. The removal of tissues is usually done from incisions under the skin, and these incisions are placed just below the breast tissue to avoid leaving prominent scars in the future, allowing for cosmetic and aesthetic improvement.
In addition, incisions may sometimes be required around the nipple area to provide an appropriate shape and size to the breast tissue and to preserve the existing nipple tissue. Once the selected breast tissues are removed, the incisions are closed appropriately, and the final shape of the breast is given. In some cases, additional surgical procedures may be necessary to reposition the nipple to a better location for aesthetic purposes. After the surgery, a symmetrical size and shape between both breasts are aimed for.
How is Breast Reduction Surgery Performed in Men?
In men, a condition called gynecomastia occurs when one or both breasts are larger than normal. This condition can occur due to hormonal imbalances or excessive weight gain, which increases estrogen levels and leads to breast tissue growth. Breast reduction surgery can be a suitable option for men with gynecomastia. However, if the disproportionate breast size is only due to excessive weight or obesity, this surgery should not be performed.
What Should Be Considered Before Breast Reduction Surgery?
There are important factors to consider before breast reduction surgery. First, a detailed general health check is necessary to evaluate the patient’s suitability for surgery. Additionally, tests such as ultrasound and mammography should be performed to determine breast health. Avoiding harmful habits such as smoking can positively affect the recovery process. Furthermore, it is important to inform the doctor about the medications used and to maintain balanced body weight before the surgery. All these precautions are critical for the success of the breast reduction surgery and the patient’s health.
What Should Be Considered After Breast Reduction Surgery?
After surgery, general anesthesia is used, so you will usually need to stay in the hospital for one day. You can start walking immediately after surgery and perform light activities within two weeks. You can start consuming liquid foods 4 hours after the surgery. If you can tolerate liquid foods comfortably, you can eat light meals like breakfast 6 hours after surgery. You can eat everything starting from the day after the surgery.
Pain and swelling are normal in the first two weeks, and you can relieve these pains with a simple pain reliever. Heavy lifting should be avoided in the first weeks, and you should follow your doctor’s recommendations. Returning to a normal exercise routine usually takes about six weeks. Additionally, it is necessary to wear a sports bra for the first 3 weeks.
Since breast reduction surgery is performed using different techniques and sizes, what should be considered after surgery may vary from person to person. Your doctor will inform you about this. However, if you notice any unexpected symptoms after surgery, such as wounds healing slower than normal, abnormal swelling, inflammation, or loss of sensation, it is important to consult your doctor immediately.
Is There an Age Limit for Breast Reduction Surgery?
There is no age limit for breast reduction surgery. It is only necessary for breast development to be completed.
How Long Does Breast Reduction Surgery Take?
Each surgery varies depending on various factors. However, to give a general duration, it can be said that breast reduction surgery usually takes between 2 to 5 hours.
Is Breast Reduction Surgery an Obstacle to Breastfeeding?
If you plan to breastfeed in the near future, it may be considered to postpone breast reduction surgery. Since the body undergoes changes during pregnancy, the results of breast surgery may be affected. Usually, plastic surgeons recommend waiting for the breast to return to its normal shape after the breastfeeding process, which usually takes between 3 to 6 months.
Does Breast Reduction Surgery Cause Cancer?
Breast reduction surgery does not cause cancer. On the contrary, studies have shown that breast reduction surgery reduces the risk of cancer by removing excess tissue from the breast.
Does the Breast Grow Again After Breast Reduction Surgery?
With appropriate techniques, breasts usually do not grow again after breast reduction surgery, but it is important for the patient to maintain their ideal weight and avoid excessive weight gain. Otherwise, there may be growth in the reduced breasts in terms of fat tissue.
