Living Your Breast Life After Reduction Surgery

Breasts come in all shapes and sizes, but sometimes large breasts can interfere with your lifestyle goals and daily activities, or cause you to feel self-conscious. If you can relate to this scenario, a breast reduction might help manage symptoms resulting from large breasts.

Good breast reduction candidates are those who are in good health and are confident in wanting to reduce their breast size. Some signs that you may benefit from a breast reduction include:

  • Persistent back, shoulder or neck pain that does not get better with other treatments
  • Poor posture due to large breast size
  • Indentations from bra straps
  • Arm numbness or tingling
  • Limitations in physical activity due to breast size
  • Persistent skin irritation beneath the breast crease

A breast reduction surgery involves removing skin and breast tissue, then reshaping and lifting the breast to achieve a smaller, more proportional size. The amount of tissue removed depends on many factors, such as your initial breast size and blood supply to your nipple. It’s been estimated that for every 100 – 300 grams of tissue removed, your breast will decrease approximately one bra cup size. A board-certified surgeon will be able to determine the amount of tissue that can be removed safely.

It is recommended to wait until the breasts are fully developed before undergoing this procedure. In teenage patients with significant symptoms, consultations are done with the patient and the patient’s parents/guardians to determine the best steps. Some women may opt to wait until they are done having children, as well.

Breast sensation can sometimes be decreased (numbness) or increased (more sensitivity) following surgery. As with breastfeeding, certain reduction techniques may better preserve nipple sensation. During your consultation, you can discuss with your surgeon about what your expected sensory outcome might be.

After surgery, you’ll go home with dressings over your breasts and possibly small drains in the incisions. You will also be given a surgical bra – this helps minimize swelling as the breasts heal. Swelling will decrease over the first few weeks; at that time, you will be able to see the final result of your procedure. The incision line may take longer to heal, and it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions on proper wound care. Scars from the procedure may appear redder in the beginning and fade over time, and heal over the course of a year or so.

 

If you think you may benefit from the results of a breast reduction, schedule a consultation with Dr. Poulter today or call our office at (309) 663-1222 or Toll Free at (888) 841-4108.