Breast Reduction - Reduction Mammaplasty

INTRODUCTION
Re-shaping the breast by lifting the skin and removing excess tissue is now more frequently requested. The newer techniques offer minimal incisions with the end result showing less evidence of the operation.

PROMOTED TECHNIQUES for Breast Reduction
• Liposuction - Removal of fatty breast tissue to reduce size offers scar free surgery, however this breast reduction technique generally does not give a lift and although the patient may reduce 1 to 2 cup sizes, the shaping and firming offered by alternate techniques, do not apply.
• Do-Nut Lift - The less obvious scar involves and incision around the edge of the nipple to “drawstring” the breast giving a minimal lift. The nipple may be reduced and even repositioned during this procedure. Inserting a surgical mesh to support breast tissue internally has greatly improved the outcome of this surgery.
• Lolly Pop lift - A single incision, around the nipple and in a line to the fold of the breast, will minimise the incision and obvious scar. This technique can give a lift or reduction in size to the breast.
• The T Incision - For large breast reductions and significant lift, including repositioning the nipple, this is the one which gives the best result. To avoid large prominent scars from this procedure, it is important to see the results of the surgeons work before proceeding.

SURGICAL STATISTICS
Steps of procedure
• The surgeon marks up the breasts the patient is anaesthetised;
• The section of skin and tissue is removed nipples may be reduced;
• Incisions are closed with stitches under the skin;
• The wound is taped and bandaged.
The breast reduction operation normally takes between 2 to 3 hours and may be performed in a day stay hospital provided the patient has suitable aftercare, It is unusual for any post operative pain although swelling, bruising are common and may persist for 7 to 10 days.
Drain tubes are not usual for this procedure. Post operatively, the patient will wear a support bandage or garment for 3 to 5 days. Stitches are dissolving.

COSTS
Approximately $6000 to $8000
Hospital $1800 to $3000
Anaesthetist $1200 to $1800

In Australia there may be some Medicare benefit for breast reduction procedures and GST is therefore not usually charged.

MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Will I have large scars?
The aesthetic outcome from breast reduction procedures is very dependant on your surgeons skills. Ensure you see his post operative results before proceeding. Check if the stitching is neat and dissolving.

Will I have pain?
Post operative pain is not usual with this operation

Can I still breast feed?
This operation may limit this possibility and many surgeons advise patients to wait until they have had children before proceeding with breast reduction.

How long will my result last?
This is very dependant on weight gain or loss, pregnancy and breast feeding. Given there is no dramatic change in the size of the breasts the results of breast reduction should be long lasting.

WHAT CAN GO WRONG?
The breasts may be uneven in size and nipples placed unevenly;
Scars may be too obvious, large, separated, keloid or uneven;
The shape may not be acceptable - too much volume on the lower half of the breast emphasing the dropped breast.

HOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT
The Cosmetic Surgery Report can advise you on how to avoid disappointment with breast reduction procedures. Please call us on 1800 682 777 for further information.

© Pamela Noon 2003
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