Insecurity about breast size are among one of the most common concerns women face when talking about body-image problems, leading many to seek out professional care to help improve their breasts’ appearance in a way that will allow them to feel more confident.
While breast augmentation and implants are one of the top five most performed cosmetic procedures due to their ability to make your breasts appear more youthful and full, the desire to change the appearance of one’s breasts does not always mean increasing their cup size. In fact, breast reductions are an increasingly popular form of plastic surgery meant to help reduce the size of a woman’s breasts for many reasons.
If you’re considering a breast reduction, or are curious about how the procedure works, here’s what you need to know.
What is Breast Reduction?
Reduction mammaplasty, also known as breast reduction surgery, is a procedure that helps remove any excess and unwanted tissue, fat, and skin away from the breasts. This procedure is performed by making small incisions to the chest, as liposuction techniques are used to remove the fat and tissue. From there, the breasts, areolas, and skin are repositioned to their desired size, shape, and location for their most natural look.
Why Does One Get a Breast Reduction
There are a great number of reasons why women may seek a reduction mammaplasty. On the surface, some women simply do not feel comfortable having large breasts and may feel a sense of judgment or embarrassment by having them and wish to reduce their size for that reason alone.
However, more often than not, those seeking a breast reduction are doing so due to more physical concerns, as having large breasts that are disproportionate to one’s frames can cause several ailments that a reduction can help to resolve, including:
- Chronic pain in the neck, shoulders, and back due to the weight of the breasts pulling down
- Nerve pain
- Restricted mobility during physical activities such as jumping, running and bending
- A chronic rash or other irritations of the skin beneath the breasts are caused by their constant rubbing against the chest.
- Inability or difficulty fitting into clothing or items like bras
Is Breast Reduction Painful?
A common concern with any type of surgery is whether or not it is going to be painful. When it comes to whether a breast reduction procedure is painful, in general, the answer is no. A breast reduction is a relatively simple procedure performed while you are under general anesthesia, and you will be able to return home the same day you’ve had a breast reduction.
There will be some swelling, bruising, and discomfort during the first few days of your recovery. However, pain medication will be given to you in the meanwhile to help ease your recovery. If your nipples were moved during the procedure, you might feel some sensitivity or discomfort for a few weeks, but this should dissipate within a few weeks.
It is important to talk with your surgeon at length about your breast reduction during your consultation, including your goals, concerns, budget, and anticipated recovery process.