Breast Reduction Surgery: What You Need to Know
Contemplating breast reduction surgery? There are various aspects of breast reduction surgery you know prior having the surgical procedure. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, over 100,000 breast reductions were done last year.
First Consultation with the Surgeon
When you have your first consultation with the surgeon, this is the time to have all your questions answered. You need to know exactly what breast reduction surgery involves. You should receive a detailed description of the surgical procedure, information on the desired breast size, examination and measurement, discussion of factors that affect surgery such as age, size and shape and skin condition, discussion of the placement of the nipples, explanation of the anesthesia, and cost and insurance information.
During this first consultation, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons recommends you ask the following questions:
Questions to Ask When Choosing a Plastic Surgeon:
1. Are you an ASPS Member Surgeon? (If he or she answers “yes,” you can rest assured that your surgeon is board certified in plastic surgery, has hospital privileges and only performs surgery in accredited facilities.)
2. Are you board-certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery?
3. Do you have hospital privileges to perform this procedure? If so, at which hospitals?
4. Is the surgical facility accredited?
5. How many procedures of this type have you performed?
What to Expect during Surgery
The surgeon will mark the breast tissue area. You will receive a general anesthesia. The surgery will last 2-3 hours.
What to Expect after Surgery
After surgery, you will wake up in the recovery room. Your breasts will be covered in bandages. You may have drainage tubes under the arms. Pain medication will be provided and generally antibiotics will be given to prevent infection. You may require an overnight hospital stay or you may go home the same day.
Your breasts will be tender which can last up to one month and the scars will be permanent but can be hidden with a bra. Final breast shape may take up to six months.
In addition, you may return to work in 2-3 weeks depending upon the job. No strenuous activity will be permitted for several weeks.
Risks of Breast Reduction Surgery
As with any major surgery, there are risks involved. Bleeding, infections, loss of feeling in the nipples, impaired blood supply to the nipples leading to removal and scarring, inability to breast feed, and asymmetry in the shape of the breasts.
It is imperative to understand completely the risks and the procedure. With this information, you can make an informed decision as to whether breast reduction surgery is
right for you.
