Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty)

Description of the Procedure The surgeon cuts around the nipple and areola. Fat and breast tissue are removed and excess skin is trimmed. Depending on how much breast tissue is removed, the surgeon may need to reposition the nipple and areola higher up on the remaining breast tissue. Additional incisions may also be needed. Liposuction, a vacuum procedure to remove excess fat, may also be used. Depending on how extensive an operation is required, the surgeon may place a small flexible tube in one or both breasts to drain any fluid build-up during the early phases of healing. These drains may need to stay in place for several days.The incisions in the breast are closed with tiny stitches. After surgery on one breast is completely finished, the same steps are taken to reduce the other breast. Breast Reduction Procedure 2008 Nucleus Medical Art, Inc. After ProcedureYou'll be tightly bandaged around your chest, or you'll wear a special surgical bra to provide pressure and support. How Long Will It Take?2-4 hours Will It Hurt?Anesthesia prevents pain during the surgery. You will have tenderness, swelling, and bruising of the breasts for several weeks after surgery. Possible ComplicationsInfectionBleedingBruisingLoss of sensation to the breast, nipple, and/or areolaPossible inability to breastfeed, especially if surgery involves moving the nipple and areolaAsymmetry between breastsRestricted arm and/or shoulder movementScarringFluid- and/or blood-filled cysts may develop in the healing breast tissue Average Hospital Stay0-4 days

Postoperative CareWear a special surgical bra that applies pressure. This will properly shape your breast(s) after the operation.If drains have been placed in either breast, they'll be removed 2-4 days after surgery.Stitches are usually removed about 7-10 days after surgery.Your doctor will probably advise you to avoid heavy lifting, straining, or strenuous exercise for the first week or two after surgery. OutcomeYour breasts will be smaller. They should reflect the size, shape, and symmetry that you desired. Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following OccursRedness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge from the incision site in either breastNausea and/or vomiting that you can't control with the medications you were given after surgery, or which persist for more than two days after discharge from the hospitalSigns of infection, including fever and chillsCough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or severe nausea or vomitingYou notice stiffness or pain when moving your armAbnormal scarringFluid- or blood-filled cysts developing in either breastYou have concerns about the size and/or shape of your breastsPain and/or swelling in your feet, calves, or legs, sudden shortness of breath or chest pain RESOURCES: American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

http://surgery.org/ American Society of Plastic Surgeonshttp://www.plasticsurgery.org/ CANADIAN RESOURCES: Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeryhttp://www.plasticsurgery.ca/ Guide to Breast Augmentation in Canadahttp://www.canadaba.ca/ References: Breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty). Mayo Clinic website. Available at: http://www.mayoclinic.org/cosmetic-surgery/breastreduction.html. Accessed June 10, 2008. Sabiston DC. Textbook of Surgery. 17th ed. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders Co.; 2003. Sabiston DC. Textbook of Surgery. 15th ed. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders Co.; 1997. Last reviewed October 2007 by Ronald Nath, MDPlease be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.