Op.Dr. Hakan TEYMUR
BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY
Breast reduction surgery is the procedure of reducing excessively large and sagging breasts to reshape them. Factors such as excessive weight gain, genetic and hormonal reasons, aging, certain medications, and tumors can cause breasts to enlarge excessively and sag. During breast reduction surgery, excess breast tissue, fat tissue, and skin are removed to achieve smaller, lighter, and more aesthetically pleasing breasts.
WHY IS BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY PERFORMED?
- Aesthetic concerns (size, sagging, enlarged areolas, nipples positioned below the breast crease)
- Difficulty in wearing underwear and clothing
- Complaints of neck, shoulder, and back pain
- Excessive sweating; formation of rashes under the breasts
- Skeletal abnormalities
BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY METHODS
There are various methods defined for breast reduction surgeries, each with its own advantages and suitability depending on the patient's age, examination findings, and preferences. Techniques that preserve milk ducts are preferred for young patients who may want to breastfeed in the future. Regardless of the chosen method, the main objectives are:
- Removal of excess breast and skin tissue
- Repositioning the sagging nipple to its ideal height
- Reshaping of breast tissue
PRECAUTIONS BEFORE SURGERY
A breast examination must be conducted before surgery. In cases of potential risks or patients over 40 years old, breast evaluation with mammography and/or breast ultrasound should be performed to decide on the operation.
SURGERY AND AGE Breast reduction surgery can be performed from the age of 17-18, when breast development is complete, but in special cases, it may be done at younger ages.
ANESTHESIA METHOD AND DURATION
Breast reduction surgeries are performed under general anesthesia and typically take about 3 hours. Thin tubes (drains) may be placed beside both breasts to remove any blood and fluids that may accumulate within the first few days. Patients can be discharged the day after surgery. They can return to daily activities and work processes after a few days wearing the recommended bra.
RECOVERY AND PROCESS
Any discomfort after breast reduction surgery can be easily controlled with medication and typically subsides within the first or second day. Patients are required to attend follow-up appointments every 2-3 days. Stitches are removed between days 10-12. Due to tissue swelling post-surgery, there may be some temporary numbness in the nipple and breast skin, which usually resolves. The surgical scar will fade over time and become less noticeable after about 1 year, provided there are no issues with wound healing.
POST-SURGERY PRECAUTIONS
- It is normal to experience minimal fluid leakage or crusting at the surgical site.
- Avoid lifting or pushing heavy objects for 3-4 weeks.
- Limit exercises for several weeks.
- Regularly wear the bra recommended by your doctor.
- Avoid any interference with your breasts except gentle touching for about 6-8 weeks for tissue softening and strengthening.
- If breastfeeding is a concern, the preservation of milk ducts during your surgery ensures no physical impediment.
- Breast tissue contains some fat tissue, so fluctuations in weight or hormonal changes may cause partial changes in breast size.
- However, this is limited and breasts will not return to their previous size.
- Breast reduction surgery reduces the likelihood of breast cancer to some extent due to the removal of breast tissue. However, there is still a possibility of cancerdevelopment in the remaining breast tissue, so regular cancer screenings are necessary.
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