Breast reduction (or reduction mastoplasty), a cosmetic surgery operation, is a procedure used to remove excess fat, tissue and skin from the breasts.
Why perform this operation?
Breast reduction surgery is intended for women with large breasts who no longer wish to suffer from the back, neck or shoulders.
Too large a chest can also cause chronic skin rashes or skin irritation under the breasts, nerve pain, or interfere with good sport practice, and impair self-esteem. It should also be noted that it is very difficult to dress for women with too generous breasts.
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Breast reduction can be done at any age, so it is possible to use this procedure in adolescence. But if the breasts are not yet fully developed, a second operation may be necessary in adulthood.
However, this surgery is not recommended for people who smoke, have diabetes or heart problems or are prone to obesity problems.
For women who have not had children or are planning to have more, it is recommended to wait. Indeed breastfeeding can be complicated after breast reduction surgery. Although some surgical techniques can help preserve the ability to breastfeed.
On the other hand, if weight loss is desired, by changing the diet and practicing physical exercise, it is necessary to wait before proceeding with the intervention. Indeed, weight loss can often change the size of breasts.
What is the cost of a breast reduction ?
Depending on the surgeon, the procedure, or the complexity of the gesture, the price of a breast reduction can vary between 4000 and 6000€. However, it can be covered by social security if it is necessary to remove more than 300 grams per breast.
How to prepare for surgery ?
A first consultation appointment :
Before the procedure, a first consultation appointment with the surgeon is necessary. The goal is to detail the different stages of the intervention.
With the plastic surgeon :
The professional assesses the patient’s medical history and overall health. It takes into account the expectations regarding the desired size and appearance of the breasts after the operation. It then details the procedure, its risks and benefits, as well as the anaesthesia used for the procedure. Then he examines, measures and takes pictures of the initial breasts that will be placed in the medical record.
Take tests and follow recommendations :
Before a breast reduction operation, it is asked to do various laboratory tests, provide a reference mammogram, quit smoking a certain time before and after the operation, do not take aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements to control bleeding during surgery. It is also advisable not to drive when returning home from the operation.
Breast reduction is usually performed under general anaesthesia, either in the hospital or in an outpatient surgery facility. It can be done with incision surgery or liposuction to remove excess fat in the breasts. On average, this operation lasts 2 to 3 hours. Hospitalization of 2 to 3 days is expected.
And then ?
Immediately following the transaction :
On waking the breasts will be covered with a gauze dressing or bandages and a tube can also be placed under each arm to drain any excess blood or fluid. Pain medications and antibiotics are prescribed to reduce the risk of infection.
During the first few weeks following the operation :
The breasts will be very sensitized, swollen and weakened by the operation. Post-operative bras are prescribed and highly recommended by surgeons to protect the chest, improve comfort and healing. Wearing bras is prescribed for 4 to 6 weeks. Several models are available on embodyparis.com.
The following weeks and healing :
It is hoped to limit physical activity for 2 to 4 weeks, while the breasts heal, heal and are less painful. It is recommended to avoid bra frames for a few months after the operation. You can continue to wear the post-operative bras. Then the scars will gradually fade. The surgeon can then remove the stitches and check the healing and recovery of the chest. The recovery time for this operation is approximately 6 weeks.
The results
Although the results are immediate, it can take months for the swelling to completely decrease and the surgical scars to fade. The end result is usually permanent, and very natural – although the shape and size of breasts may change due to factors such as aging and weight gain or loss.