Take the Load Off!

Breast Reduction Surgery - Making Huge
Impact With Less

Reduction Mammoplasty or breast reduction involves removing excess breast tissue, skin and reshaping the breast mound. Contrary to popular presumption, breast reduction is not only a cosmetic procedure but also a healthy transformation. Most women who undergo this surgery have been suffering from problems due to disproportionately large breasts or Gigantomastia.

Symptoms which prompt surgical attention includes:

• Neck, shoulder, and back pain due to heavy breasts
• Indentations on the shoulder due to brassiere straps
• Rash or ulceration under or between the breasts
• Social embarrassment due to size or asymmetry

Gigantomastia can occur at any age, usually at puberty or after pregnancy and during lactation but can be idiopathic. The procedure can be performed at any age but is best done when breasts are fully developed.

CONSULTATION

It is important to document the chief symptoms and physical signs such as rash or ulceration and understand the patient’s expectations. Proper examination and measurements should be done in front of a mirror or on a computer. Any asymmetries need to be shown to and discussed with the patient. Smokers are advised to quit or stop at least 4 weeks before the surgery.

SURGICAL OPTIONS

The surgery basically entails the reduction of the skin envelope and the breast parenchyma. Techniques (periareolar, lollipop or anchor shaped) vary according to the skin excess, and parenchymal shaping can be done using various pedicles (superior, superomedial, inferior, bipedicled) to maintain blood supply. The incisions are usually well concealed but leave behind permanent scars. The nipple and areola move with the pedicle or may be removed completely and reattached as a free graft, depending on the blood supply.

RECOVERY

Typically the wound heals in 10-14 days. It is advisable to avoid lifting heavy things and stretching the arms until the incision heals. A support brassiere is worn right after surgery, and scar treatment is started after the wound heals.

POSSIBLE RISKS

As with any surgery, there are ambient risks like infection, hematoma, altered sensation and pigmentation, unfavourable scarring and potential inability to breastfeed. It is best to choose a well-trained Plastic Surgeon to perform the procedure and have all the questions answered.

Dr. Devayani Barve-Venkat
Consultant
Plastic, Aesthetic &
Reconstructive Surgeon
Nanavati Super Speciality
Hospital, Mumbai