Will My Breast Reduction Results Be Permanent?
Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the size and volume of very large or disproportionate breasts. Typically considered cosmetic surgery, breast reduction can also alleviate physical discomfort, improve body proportion, and enhance the quality of life for many individuals struggling with overly large breasts. In fact, this procedure offers a transformative solution that addresses a range of physical and emotional issues. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the benefits of breast reduction surgery, the procedure itself, typical outcomes, and the longevity of results.
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What Are the Benefits of Breast Reduction Surgery?
Alleviation of Physical Discomfort
The natural impulse to correct an issue at the source is a type of survival instinct. Very large breasts can cause a host of physical problems, such as neck, back, and shoulder pain, bra strap grooving, skin irritation, and difficulty with physical performance. Breast reduction surgery significantly reduces or eliminates these problems, allowing you to enjoy a more comfortable and active lifestyle.
Relief from Psychological Distress
Many individuals with overly large breasts experience psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. People feel out of balance and disproportionate, both physically and mentally. If you are among those struggling with psychological discomfort caused by breasts that are too big, a breast reduction can provide relief from these emotional challenges and enable you to embrace your body and live life to the fullest.
Improved Body Proportion
Large breasts can cause body proportions that make finding fashionable clothing that fits well challenging. Breast reduction surgery creates a more balanced and harmonious silhouette, enhancing overall body proportion and boosting self-confidence.
Enhanced Quality of Life
The physical and emotional burden of living with overly large breasts can be a burden on your overall well-being. Breast reduction surgery can improve self-esteem, body image, and overall quality of life, empowering you to feel more confident and comfortable in your skin.
What Does a Breast Reduction Procedure Involve?
Breast reductions are usually performed under general anesthesia and involve the following five steps:
- Incision placement: The surgeon will make incisions typically placed around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along its base (known as the anchor or inverted T incision). Incision techniques may vary depending on the patient’s anatomy and how much tissue needs to be removed.
- Tissue removal: The surgeon removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to reduce the size and volume of the breasts. The nipple and areola complex may also be raised to achieve a more youthful position.
- Breast reshaping: After tissue removal, the surgeon will reshape the breast to create younger-looking, more symmetrical, and appealing contours. Special care is taken to ensure that the nipples are positioned correctly and maintain their natural sensation.
- Closure: Once the desired breast size and shape have been created, the incisions are meticulously closed with sutures. Drainage tubes may be temporarily placed to prevent fluid accumulation and facilitate healing.
- Recovery: Following the breast reduction procedure, you will be monitored closely in the recovery area before being discharged. You need someone to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours. Post-operative recovery care instructions, including pain management, activity restrictions, and wound care, are provided.
What Results Can I Expect After Breast Reduction Surgery?
This procedure offers dramatic results for improved physical, emotional, and aesthetic wellness.
- Reduced breast size: Breast reduction surgery effectively reduces the size and volume of the breasts, alleviating physical discomfort and improving body proportion.
- Enhanced breast shape: In addition to reducing breast size, breast reduction surgery can improve breast shape and symmetry, creating a more youthful and natural-looking contour.
- Relief from physical symptoms: Many patients experience immediate relief from physical symptoms such as neck, back, and shoulder pain, bra strap grooving, and skin irritation.
- Improved self-confidence: Breast reduction surgery can profoundly impact self-esteem and body image, empowering you to feel more comfortable and confident.
- Long-lasting satisfaction: Studies have shown that most patients are highly satisfied with the results of breast reduction surgery and report significant improvements in overall wellness.
Can My Breast Size Increase After a Breast Reduction?
While breast reduction is a procedure offering a long-term solution to reduce the size of your breasts, certain factors can influence the longevity of results. The following events will likely impact your outcome:
Weight Fluctuations
Significant weight changes of either gain or loss can lead to changes in breast size and shape after surgery. Maintaining a stable weight with a healthy diet and exercise support will help you ensure long-lasting breast reduction results.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Breast reduction surgery may interfere with breastfeeding, although 50% of women can still successfully breastfeed after a breast reduction. However, subsequent pregnancies and breastfeeding may alter the results of the procedure by causing changes in the size, shape, and elasticity of your reduced breasts.
Aging and Gravity
As the body ages, skin loses elasticity, and gravity takes its toll, leading to natural changes in breast position and contour. While breast reduction surgery technically provides permanent results, age-related changes will continue to occur.
Essential Breast Reduction Facts to Remember
Breast reduction surgery offers a solution for individuals who have been struggling with the physical and emotional burdens of very large breasts for their entire lives. By reducing breast size, improving breast shape, and alleviating physical discomfort, breast reduction surgery can enhance the quality of life by creating a more proportionate body shape, increasing confidence, and improving self-esteem.
While the procedure provides long-lasting results, it’s still essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle. You also have to be mindful of factors that can influence your breast size and shape over time.
If you’re considering breast reduction surgery, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to explain your goals, expectations, and candidacy for the procedure. With proper planning and expert care, breast reduction surgery can help you achieve the balanced silhouette you desire and embrace life with newfound confidence.
Breast Reduction in High Point, NC
At Piedmont Plastic Surgery, our team is dedicated to helping our patients achieve their cosmetic and functional goals.
Dr. Virgil Willard is a reputable, board-certified plastic surgeon who provides breast reduction surgery in High Point, North Carolina, along with other cosmetic breast, body, and facial procedures.
To learn more, schedule your High Point breast reduction consultation by calling (336) 886-1667 today.