Breast reduction is the name given to plastic surgery that reduces breast volume. It is indicated for patients who have large breasts with or without ptosis (drooping). The above normal breast volume can result in difficulties to find ideal clothes to intense pain.
1. What type of anesthesia is used for breast lifts?
We can opt for local anesthesia with sedation for moderately sized breasts. Medication is provided so that the patient can sleep calmly. Subsequently, we perform local anesthesia on the breasts. For cases of breasts with large volume, we should opt for general anesthesia for patient safety.
2. What are the scars?
For breast reduction, we can perform surgery through the periareolar incisions + “T” or periareolar + “L”. We apply Micropore adhesive dressings throughout the scar for 3 months so that the final scar is as unnoticeable as possible.
3. When will the stitches be removed?
For this type of surgery we use absorbable sutures, that is, wires that are degraded by the body after a few weeks. Thus, the stitches do not need to be removed, they will disappear by themselves.
4. What will the new size of the breasts be?
To reach a consensus on the new size of breasts that the patient should have, we must take into account numerous factors such as: • the patient’s chest characteristics (too narrow? Too long?) • skin and mammary gland characteristics of the patient (presence of striae? firm skin? Breast fat?) • The wish of the patient (small breasts, proportional to the body or with large volume?) The new breast volume will be extensively talked over between the surgeon and the patient so that both are satisfied with the result.
5. Can I breastfeed after surgery?
In most patients, breastfeeding is possible, especially when breast reduction is small or moderate. For large volume breasts, breastfeeding may be impaired.
6. How will the sensitivity of the breasts be after surgery?
In surgery, for reduction of breast volume, the breast must be taken off so that the excess is removed. With this, there will be interruption of sensory stimuli conduction by the nerves in some regions, which may be temporary or permanent. Therefore, soon after surgery, the skin of the breasts and areolas will be dormant. As the weeks pass, there will be a gradual return of sensitivity, and most patients report near or total recovery of this sensitivity after a few months. This recovery may occur within 6 months after surgery.
7. Is the surgery very painful?
Usually there is no pain, and when it is present, it is quite tolerable. We prescribe simple analgesics for pain that the patient can take at home, prophylactically, that is, before they can feel any discomfort.
8. Does the incision get very swollen and purple?
In the first 2 to 3 days, edema (swelling) and ecchymosis (purple) may be present. But, this will depend on how each patient responds to surgery.
9. How long does the surgery last?
Usually from 3 to 4 hours.
10. How long will I need to stay in hospital?
From 8 to 24 hours after surgery. Depending on the type of anesthesia and recovery of the patient.
11. Is lymphatic massage necessary?
The massages are very important. The first massage is performed about 4 days after surgery. They help in the early reduction of swelling and scar remodeling.