Breast reduction is sometimes cosmetic, sometimes medically needed
A woman may have a breast reduction, or reduction mammoplasty, for cosmetic reasons (to improve the look of the breasts) or because it is medically necessary due to associated problems such as back and neck strain, chronic skin rashes, or deep grooves in the skin of the shoulders from bra straps.
A breast reduction is often done along with a breast lift.
What to expect from breast reduction surgery
Breast reduction is usually performed with general anesthesia (you are asleep for the surgery). Based on a plan you have developed with your surgeon, a certain amount of excess fatty tissue will be removed from your breasts to shape them into a new, desired size. If your breasts contain mostly fatty tissue, liposuction may be the primary method of removal. Your areola and nipples will also be repositioned at the height you and your doctor envisioned.
Things you should know before getting a breast reduction
If you are planning to lose weight or have more children, your doctor may advise you to put off breast reduction surgery until later. This is because the breast often changes size and shape with weight fluctuations and pregnancy. Having breast reduction surgery may also affect your ability to produce sufficient milk while breastfeeding.
Talk to your doctor about your expectations around breast reduction and to determine if it’s the right choice for you.
