For some women, having large breasts can be a cause of major discomfort writes Dr Richard Bloom, Specialist Plastic Surgeon from Re. Plastic Surgery and Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons member.
A woman’s breasts may have become larger than desired because of ongoing development, pregnancy or breastfeeding.
The burden of big breasts can cause of raft of health problems such as chronic neck, shoulder and back pain, or a combination of all of these. They can also prevent a woman from enjoying everyday activities and exercising due to discomfort, and finding clothes and bras that fit can be problematic.
Having a breast reduction could be the solution for women who feel weighed down by big breasts.
A breast reduction is a surgical procedure that decreases the size and reshapes the breast. It’s a common procedures with a short recovery time, low associated risk and an immediate improvement of symptoms.
What does a breast reduction involve?
Upon consultation, your Specialist Plastic Surgeon will assess your breast shape and size, your overall body proportions, other possible health issues as well as your desired outcome.
A breast reduction is performed under a general anaesthetic, usually with an overnight stay in the hospital. During the surgical procedure, the surgeon will remove excess breast tissue, re-position the nipple, tighten the skin and reshape the breast.
The recovery process
The first week or so, patients may experience some discomfort, although this is usually well controlled with simple painkillers. Most of the bruising and swelling will resolve within a few weeks and patients generally return to work and light activities within a couple of weeks. By six weeks, patients can return to full exercise and resume wearing an underwire bra.
Breast reduction surgery can be life-changing, with positive effects on both the health and confidence of patients.
