Breast reduction, or reduction mammoplasty, is designed for women who experience medical problems due to uncomfortable breasts. Problems may include back and neck pain, skin irritation, skeletal deformities, and breathing problems. Although the procedure is typically used to alleviate medical problems, it can also help women who feel self-conscious about the size of their breasts.

The Surgery

The most common procedure involves the surgeon making an anchor-shaped incision around the dark area of the nipple (areola). This incision is then extended downward, following the natural curve of the crease beneath the breast. The surgeon removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin, and adjusts the nipple to its new position. The skin from each side is pulled down and around the areola, thereby reshaping the breast. The surgeon then stitches the incision, always aiming for the least amount of scarring. In certain cases, the vertical part of the scar can be eliminated. It should be noted that smoking prior to or following surgery increases the visibility of scarring. Stitches are usually removed in one to three week's time. A breast reduction is performed in a hospital, usually requiring a two to three day stay. The procedure itself takes between two and four hours and is done under a general anesthetic.

After Surgery

Once the surgery is complete, an elastic bandage or surgical bra wraps the breasts to provide comfort and support. The bandage is removed within a few days while the surgical bra stay on until the bruising and swelling subsides (up to several weeks). A small tube may be placed in each breast to drain excessive fluids. Patients may experience minor pain in the days following the surgery, although this subsides in seven to ten days. Most women can return to work after two weeks.

Health Concerns

As with any cosmetic surgical procedure, complications are rare, but can include bleeding, infection, a reaction to the anesthesia, and small sores around the nipple (usually immediately following the surgery). Some women temporarily lose feeling in their nipples, a condition that almost always fades over time. Patients may also experience some discomfort in the breast area for up to a year. Occasionally, the surgery removes milk ducts leading to the nipples, impairing a woman's breast-feeding ability. To maximize the success of surgery and to minimize the risk of complication, always follow doctor's instructions for surgical preparation and postoperative care.