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 Breast reduction is a cosmetic procedure done to reduce the size of breasts in women. There are conditions which can also lead to men choosing to get this surgery. There can be physical symptoms of discomfort like pain in the neck and shoulders, skin irritation, large breasts for the body frame or even prevent regular activities.

Breast reduction procedure involves certain pre and post surgery steps. It is considered a major surgery and should be treated as such. Some of the pre-surgery steps involve a consultation to discuss your reasons for considering this procedure. Then, the doctor might take measurements and pictures of your breasts in order to identify how much breast tissue will need to be removed. The doctor might then do a mammogram too. You might be asked to follow some pre-surgery behaviour like stopping smoking and consuming alcohol along with reducing your intake of over-the-counter medications.

The breast reduction procedure can take anywhere between one hour to five hours, or even longer. Sometimes you might be put under general anesthesia for the procedure but sometimes it can also be done in the outpatient department. Your doctor will make an incision around the nipple, in a downward direction. The extra fat along with tissue and skin will be removed. The nipple is then repositioned and stitched properly. Your breasts will be dressed with gauze and sometimes even a stent might be used to drain. You might be given a surgical bra too, to wear after the surgery.

The recovery and care for breast reduction surgery is important as well. Keep gauze, clean washcloths and towels handy. Have a lot of ice ready. Ensure that you have loose cotton clothing to wear. Your doctor might prescribe ointments to apply as well.

You need to be aware of potential side effects too in order to prevent complications early on. Any form of pus or discharge needs to be brought to your doctor’s notice. Pain and fever are also potential complications. Scars are expected but these should fade in some time. If stitches come out before they are removed, you need to contact your doctor.

Before you decide on doing this procedure, you should check your insurance policy. Most policies cover the cost of this surgery but you should be sure. This surgery is considered reconstructive and there may be policies that do not cover the cost.

Reference:

1. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10337559
   

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