Breast reduction is usually performed to relieve a physical problem, rather than purely aesthetic reasons. Many women who undergo this procedure are concerned about the excessive volume of their chest that interferes with many activities and cause physical discomfort. In most cases the patient wait until the chest is fully developed, although it can be done earlier if the physical problems are very important. This procedure is not recommended for women who intend to breastfeed after pregnancy.

During the initial consultation, your plastic surgeon will evaluate the size and shape of the breast, skin firmness and overall health status were also performs breast exams and in some cases a mammography is required. It will explain the different surgical techniques, the size and shape that have your breasts and the options or combination of procedures that are best for you is discussed. You should state your expectations sincere and straightforward manner, so that the plastic surgeon is also sincere and show the alternatives available to your problem, with the risks and limitations of each. It will also tell what type of anesthesia to be used, whether or not to enter the clinic where the surgery and the costs of the intervention is performed.

Do not forget to tell if you are a smoker or take any medication or vitamin, number of previous pregnancies and if you plan to become pregnant or breastfeeding. Feel free to ask any question you may have, especially those regarding your expectations about the results.

The breast reduction surgery is performed in an operating room, within a clinic or hospital. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, the patient remained asleep during the operation.

A breast reduction lasts between 2 and 4 hours, although in certain cases may be lengthened. Various techniques exist, but generally anchor-shaped incisions are standing around the areola, in a vertical line down from the areola and a horizontal line in the groove beneath the breast. Through these incisions excess skin, fat and breast tissue is removed and the areola and nipple in his new position is relocated; in some cases can be associated liposuction. In most cases the areola remains attached to its blood vessels and nerves while maintaining normal or near normal sensation; however, in cases of large reductions may be necessary to completely separate the areola and place it in its new position, losing the feeling. After surgery, drainage tubes and a bandage around your breasts are placed.

After breast surgery is normal to be a little tired some days, but can make life almost normal within 24-48 hours. Most discomfort is well controlled with medication prescribed by your plastic surgeon, although the breasts can hurt a couple of weeks; the first period after a reduction can make the breasts to swell and hurt. The bandage or dressing will be removed in a few days, being replaced by a special bra, to be kept in the manner prescribed by your surgeon. It is normal to have a burning sensation in the nipples during the first two weeks. Breast reduction may be normal to have decreased sensation in the nipples; this situation is usually temporary, except for some cuts that can be definitive. The stitches are removed between 7 and 14 days; edema not completely gives up until 3 or 6 week. After breast reduction procedures you can return to work in 2 to 3 weeks, although in a few days can make life almost normal. You should limit strenuous physical activity for a few weeks until he recovers from the operation. For 1 to 2 weeks is advisable to avoid sex for the incisions are not inflamed; for 3 or 4 weeks avoid intense physical contact of the breasts. It is normal for small scabs or some liquid appearing through incisions. Your plastic surgeon will be watching you during the months following surgery for evolution. Should you have any trouble between visits, or any questions about what should or should not do, do not hesitate to call.

Reduction surgery breast is a safe technique, provided it is performed by a qualified plastic surgeon. However, as with any operation there can always be complications and risks.

Breast reduction leave permanent and visible scars, though concealable under the bra or bikini. Healing problems are more common in smokers. Some patients may experience a partial reduction, and sometimes total of nipple sensation. After a reduction may be affected the ability to breastfeed.

It is important to remember that after a breast reduction scars are important and permanent, although your surgeon will strive to be noticed as little as possible. Over time, less scarring will notice.

After a breast reduction you will spend a few months until your breasts acquire the final appearance. If your expectations are realistic you will be very satisfied with the outcome of breast reduction.

The purpose of the intervention is the reduction and reshaping of breasts, placing the nipple-areola in its correct position.
Although there are different techniques used depending on breast size, patient age, etc., in general, necessary incisions around the areola, vertical and horizontal in the fold (anchor shaped).

Often there are bruises and some swelling in the postoperative period. In some cases there may be a reduction or loss of sensation in one or both areolas, which usually recovers over time. It is very rare partial or total lesion of the areola or nipple. The scars resulting from this surgery can sometimes be bulky or wide, being convenient, in these cases, make an adjustment and scar excision under local anesthesia, after 6 months.

The information contained on this website in no case, nor intended, to replace the information provided individually by your plastic surgeon. If in doubt, your plastic surgeon will provide appropriate clarifications.