Breast Reduction
Breast Reduction Surgery
Having breasts that are larger than normal can negatively affect women both physically, socially, and psychologically. Large and sagging breasts can cause back and shoulder pain, excessive sweating, and rashes under the breasts. In more severe cases, the size of the breasts can even lead to sleep and breathing difficulties. People with large breasts may find it difficult to move comfortably and may even feel the need to hide their breasts due to embarrassment. This attempt to conceal the breasts can lead to posture problems and hunchback.
Considering these health and social issues, breast reduction surgery not only improves appearance and aesthetics but also corrects both the health and psychological state of individuals.
Given these conditions, parents should be understanding of their young daughters and wives. This condition usually begins at the age of 15, but the surgery is typically performed at 18 years of age. The breast is composed of glandular tissue, fat, and muscle tissue. Some people believe they can reduce the size of their breasts through diet and exercise. However, for most patients, this is not enough. Even if they lose weight, the reduction in breast size can be minimal and may be accompanied by sagging.
Some parents recommend breast reduction surgery for their daughters after marriage and childbirth due to concerns about losing the ability to breastfeed. However, both scientifically and through years of experience, we know that excessively large glandular tissues block the milk ducts, and even without surgery, individuals may only be able to produce a small amount of milk when they become mothers.
Who Can Undergo Breast Reduction Surgery?
The patient’s health and psychological condition are primarily considered. For patients with a condition known as gigantomastia (excessively large breasts), the surgery can be performed with written consent from the parents. For individuals over the age of 18 with an appropriate health condition, the surgery can be performed, and for those under 18, parental consent is required.
How Is the Surgery Performed?
During the initial examination, the techniques to be used for the breast reduction surgery and the postoperative process are explained face to face. Measurements are taken, and the necessary markings are made while the patient is standing.
Postoperative Scarring
During the surgery, the nipple size is reduced to normal dimensions. To lift and reduce the breast, an incision is made around the areola, and a vertical incision is also made from the areola down to the breast crease. An incision in the breast fold is necessary as well. When looking in the mirror, these incisions appear as an inverted T-shape. The scars that remain after the surgery do not cause as much discomfort as the issues caused by the oversized breasts.
Breast Reduction Surgery and Postoperative Daily Life
Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anesthesia and lasts between 3-4 hours. Since no muscle tissue is affected during the surgery, no pain is experienced afterward, except for mild soreness at the incision sites. Pain relief medication is provided, and any discomfort generally subsides within a few hours.
Absorbable sutures are used during the surgery, so the patient does not need to have the stitches removed. Follow-up dressings are scheduled for the determined days and times. After breast reduction surgery, patients can immediately attend to their own needs on the same day. It is important to follow the prescribed medication regimen. To ensure the breasts maintain their beautiful shape, the patient is advised to wear a sports bra for one month. After the first week to ten days, patients can resume their social activities. It may take 4-6 weeks to fully return to normal life, and they should avoid intense physical activities for up to 8 weeks.
