For many women, having large breasts is a curse rather than a blessing. Naturally large breasts have a tendency to sag and can be extremely uncomfortable both physically and psychologically. If you have breasts that give you back pain, cause irritation around your bra straps, give you skin rashes, or make you feel uncomfortable in social situations then a breast reduction operation may be the answer to solving your problems.
Benefits to Breast Reduction
• Less weight in front, making chronic back and neck pain go away
• New breasts support themselves better, making your bra have to do less work
• Reduced breasts are often given whatever shape and size the patient wants for a more pleasing overall figure
• Increased overall comfort and confidence for the patient
• Improved posture
• Lower risk of breast cancer
• Promotes a more active lifestyle
• More clothing options
Potential Risk of Breast Reduction
• Loss of feeling around the nipples
• Delayed healing
• Scars
• Inability to breast feed
• Infection
Despite the potential risks to a breast reduction operation, the vast majority of women who receive breast reduction surgery are extremely pleased with the results and show a marked improvement across the board on psychological testing that measures confidence and quality of life.
Recovery
A breast reduction surgery is performed in the hospital and, depending on the surgeon and your ability to heal, recovery time will vary. For the first two weeks after a breast reduction you can expect to have bruising and have to wear a surgical bra to ensure that there is a minimum of motion in that area.
In the first few weeks after a breast reduction you are advised to avoid any heavy lifting or otherwise strenuous activity. It is also recommended that any contact with the breasts be very gentle for at least four to six weeks after surgery. Because the tissue being removed from the breasts is so sensitive, it can take six months to a year for the patient to see the final results from their operation.
