Breast Reduction Surgery in Delhi, India

Breast reduction surgery helps in resolving issues including:

• Chronic shoulder, back and neck pain
• Irritation under the breasts
• Deep grooves caused by bra strap pressure
• Restricted physical activity
• Sleep difficulties
• Difficulty fitting into clothes
• Finding the right bra size
• Poor self-image
• Difficulty in doing exercise.   

Breast reduction can opt at any age. However, doctors advise waiting until the time breasts are fully developed. Furthermore, breast reduction surgery can also affect breastfeeding, so it should be put on hold if someone is planning to start a family.

Before breast reduction surgery in Delhi, India, the surgeon evaluates the patient’s medical history, and discusses the breast size expectation and explains the benefits and risks involved. Furthermore, the patient is also asked to undergo a series of lab tests, a baseline mammogram, avoid aspirin, quit smoking and take any anti-inflammatory drugs.

During a breast reduction surgery, the breast is cut open, excess fat and tissues are removed, and the skin is stitched back together. However, in certain cases, if the excess tissue is only fat, cutting the breast is not required, liposuction may also work. The four steps involved in a breast reduction surgery include:

1. Anaesthesia
2. Incision
3. Removal and Repositioning of Tissue
4. Closure

• Patients can expect a little pain for a few days after the surgery. However, the surgeon will prescribe pain relief medication
• The swelling and pain will subside in a few days, but the discomfort may stay for a little longer
• The breasts are usually covered with a bandage or a gauze dressing for proper recovery of the wound and to avoid infection
• The doctor advises avoiding indulging in any strenuous physical activities to avoid pressure on the breasts
• Because the breasts need to be protected, doctors advise wearing a supporting bra

A successful breast reduction surgery can effectively relieve the patient from chronic neck, back and shoulder pain. The advantages of breast reduction surgery include:

• Active participation in physical sports
• Reduces shoulder, back and neck pain
• Better health
• Relief from skin irritation under the breast
• Better posture
• Reduces the pull caused by bra straps
• Increases self-confidence
• Better sleep

Unlike any other surgery, breast reduction also has a few risks associated with it. Possible risks of breast reduction surgery include:

• Loss of sensation in and around the nipples
• Difficulty in breastfeeding
• Difference in size of the breasts or irregular placement of the areolae
• Blood clot or infection
• Scarring
• Discolouration of the skin around the breasts

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What is breast reduction surgery?

Breast reduction surgery is performed to remove excess breast tissue and reshape the breasts to reduce size and improve proportion. It is also called reduction mammaplasty, 

Who is a candidate for breast reduction surgery?

Good candidates for breast reduction surgery are those with overly large breasts that cause physical pain, discomfort, or emotional distress and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure.

What benefits does breast reduction surgery offer?

Breast reduction surgery provides benefits like relief from back, neck, and shoulder pain, improved posture, reduced skin irritation, enhanced body proportion, increased self-confidence, and the chance to participate in physical activities more comfortably.

How is breast reduction surgery performed?

General anesthesia is used during breast reduction surgery, usually. The surgeon will make incisions, remove excess breast tissue, reposition the nipples, and reshape the breasts. The technique used may vary depending on individual needs and the surgeon's preferences.

Are there scars after breast reduction surgery?

Yes, breast reduction surgery will leave scars. However, the incisions are strategically placed to minimize visibility. Over time, the scars usually fade and become less noticeable.

Is breast reduction surgery covered by insurance?

In certain cases, breast reduction surgery could be covered if deemed medically necessary. The criteria for coverage vary by insurance provider and often require documentation of symptoms and attempts at conservative treatments.

What is recovery like after breast reduction surgery?

The recovery after breast reduction surgery varies for each individual but typically involves a few weeks of rest, limited physical activity, and wearing a supportive bra. The surgeon will provide specific post-operative instructions.

Are there any risks or complications of breast reduction surgery?

Some risks of breast reduction surgery include bleeding, infection, changes in nipple sensation, scarring, asymmetry, and potential difficulty breastfeeding. Discuss these risks with your surgeon.

Can breast reduction surgery affect breastfeeding?

Breast reduction surgery could affect the ability to breastfeed. However, the extent of this impact depends on the surgical technique used and individual factors. 

Will breast reduction surgery result in loss of nipple sensation?

Temporary or permanent changes in nipple sensation can occur after breast reduction surgery. However, many individuals retain normal or partial sensation in their nipples.

Can more procedures be combined with breast reduction surgery?

Yes, breast reduction surgery may be combined with other procedures like breast lifts or liposuction, depending on individual goals and the surgeon's recommendations. This combination approach can achieve more comprehensive results.

Will breast reduction surgery affect breast cancer screening?

Breast reduction surgery may impact breast cancer screening, as it can change the breast tissue's architecture. It's important to inform your mammography technologist about your surgery so they can appropriately adjust the imaging technique.

How long can the results of breast reduction surgery last?

Breast reduction surgery's results are long-lasting. However, factors like weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and aging may affect breast shape and size over time.

Can breast reduction surgery be performed on one breast only?

Yes, breast reduction surgery may be performed on one breast (unilateral) if there is a significant size or shape difference between the breasts. The goal is to achieve better symmetry and proportion.

Will breast reduction surgery impact the ability to exercise?

Breast reduction surgery can improve comfort and mobility during physical activities. However, it's important to follow your surgeon's instructions regarding post-operative healing and gradually return to exercise.

Can breast reduction surgery be performed on men?

Yes, breast reduction surgery can be done on men with gynaecomastia (which causes excessive breast tissue development). The surgical approach may differ from that used for women.

Is there a minimum age for breast reduction surgery?

The minimum age for breast reduction surgery typically varies depending on the individual's physical and emotional maturity. Generally, surgeons prefer to perform the procedure on individuals who have fully developed breasts.

How much weight will I lose with breast reduction surgery?

 Breast reduction surgery primarily aims to reduce breast size and improve breast shape rather than achieve weight loss. The amount of breast tissue removed varies based on individual goals and the surgeon's assessment.

Is it possible to breastfeed after breast reduction surgery?

Breast reduction surgery may impact breastfeeding, as it involves repositioning the nipples and removing some breast tissue. While some individuals can still breastfeed after the procedure, it's not guaranteed.

Can breast reduction surgery help with neck and shoulder pain?

Yes, breast reduction surgery can alleviate neck and shoulder pain associated with large breasts. By reducing breast size and weight, the procedure can relieve strain on the upper body.

How soon after breast reduction surgery can I resume normal activities?

The timeframe for resuming normal activities varies depending on the individual's healing progress. Your surgeon will provide guidelines on when you can gradually resume activities such as work, exercise, and lifting.

Can breast reduction surgery correct asymmetrical breasts?

Yes, breast reduction surgery can help correct asymmetrical breasts by removing excess tissue from one breast or adjusting the size and shape of both breasts to achieve better symmetry.

Will my breasts sag again after breast reduction surgery?

While breast reduction surgery can provide long-lasting results, factors like aging, weight fluctuations, and pregnancy can potentially affect breast shape and cause some degree of sagging over time.

Can breast reduction surgery improve my posture?

Yes, breast reduction surgery improves posture- it does so by reducing the weight and strain on the upper body. This allows for a more balanced and upright posture.

Can breast reduction surgery improve self-confidence?

Yes, breast reduction surgery can improve self-confidence by alleviating physical discomfort, enhancing body proportion, and letting individuals feel more comfortable and confident in their appearance.

Review

Reviewed By Dr. Pankaj Sharma, Consultant, Aesthetic And Reconstructive Surgery on 17 May 2024.