Breast reduction/Reduction Mammoplasty is a surgery to reduce the size of breast and achieve an aesthetic shape.
With age, child bearing and weight gain, the natural youthfulness of breast is affected causing breast to be droopy. Also a heavy breast can affect choice of clothes and cause neck and shoulder pain.
Breast reduction not only alleviates these symptoms, but also helps women to regain self-confidence.
You are a good candidate if you have: Disproportionate breasts
Droopy breasts
Shoulder/Back/Neck pain due to heavy breasts
Difficulty in wearing desired clothes
Difficulty in daily activities/exercise
It involves removal of excess breast tissue, extra skin and moves nipple to new position. It is done under general anaesthesia and takes around 3-4 hours.There are two basic techniques and the choice depends on breast size and sagging.
Vertical breast reduction: is preferred for moderate size breasts and sagging. The incision given is in the shape of lollipop that starts around areola and then running down just above the bottom of breast.
Inverted-T breast reduction: is preferred for large size breasts and sagging. The incision given is in the shape of anchor/ inverted that starts around areola and running vertical down to crease beneath the breast.
Dr.Chugh uses the latest technique of superio-medial pedicle breast reduction with short scar technique. This ensures a scar which is well hidden and camouflages with rest of the breast gradually.
After the surgery a compressive dressing is placed for 24 hours. Next day a customized compression garment is to be worn which stays for 6 weeks 24*7. In some cases drain might be placed which is removed in a day or two.
Swelling and discomfort will be there for initial few days and it subsides gradually. After a week you can resume desk job.
The return to activities can be at gradual pace that is within two or three weeks of surgery. You can start light exercise after two weeks but heavy exercise should not be done before 6 weeks.
Stitches used may be dissolvable. Sometimes if stitches are to be removed it is usually done between 10-14 days after surgery.
Results can be appreciated immediately and it improves over weeks as swelling subsides.
Advancements in surgical techniques and anaesthesia have made breast reduction a safe procedure. As with any other surgery there are risks of hematoma, infection, asymmetry, scarring, nipple necrosis, decreased nipple sensation.
