Breast Reduction

Purpose

Breast reduction reduces the size of the breasts and reshape the breasts as well. For women with larger than normal breast sizes since puberty, breast reduction provides a way of helping their self-esteem. Physical activity for such women can be difficult due to the size and weight of the breasts and the limited choice of clothing available for their size can also be an issue.

Procedure

Breast reduction involves a surgical operation to remove fat, glandular tissue and skin from the breast. The operation usually lasts between two and four hours and takes place under a general anaesthetic, although some surgeons in some cases may use local anaesthetic and sedation.

Breast reduction can be performed using different techniques. Scar distribution can be on the front of the breast - otherwise known as the vertical scar technique; or scar distribution is like an inverted T, known as the anchor shape scarring technique. Breasts are given an uplift when reduction is performed. The choice of surgery depends on patient choice and the suitability of the breast. Mr Khan has his own technique for breast reduction and breast uplift without reduction; which has been have published by the Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Journal in the USA. For more information see Mr Khan's Profile. In Mr Khan's experience, larger breasts are better shaped for the inverted T scarring technique rather than the vertical scarring technique, and it posing little risk to the nipple area. The vertical or single scar technique is a good option for small to medium size breast reductions. The uplift of breasts in small to medium size breasts can also be performed using the single or vertical scar technique, where patients are not interested in having a breast reduction or extensive scarring.

Results

After a breast reduction, the breasts should appear smaller. The results are usually permanent, but your breasts may subsequently increase in size if you gain weight or if there are hormone changes within your body.

Risks

General risks associated with any surgical procedure apply. The surgeon will discuss all associated risks with you in detail. As with all surgery, this procedure leaves permanent scars which initially may be red but which normally fade close to your natural skin colour over several months. These scars may be more noticeable if you smoke, and may leave a puckered edge on the outside of the scar.