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BREAST REDUCTION

General Information

DEFINITION--Removal of excess tissue and overlying skin from the female breasts. Usually this surgery also includes reconstruction of breast shape.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Breasts.

REASONS FOR SURGERY

  • Reduction of overly large breasts to improve appearance.
  • Relief of back pain from weight of overly large breasts.
  • Reconstruction of a breast to match a surgical change made in the other breast.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

  • Obesity.
  • Smoking.
  • Excess alcohol consumption.
  • Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleep inducers; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.
  • Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens; marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--Plastic and reconstructive surgeon.

WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

  • Before surgery: Blood and urine studies; mammogram (See Glossary).
  • After surgery: Blood studies.

ANESTHESIA--General anesthesia by injection and inhalation with an airway tube placed in the windpipe.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

  • The breast is marked where the skin will be removed and where the nipple will be after tissue is removed.
  • The skin between the new nipple location and the natural nipple location is incised and removed. The nipple stays attached to underlying tissue.
  • Another incision is made below the nipple. Excess tissue is removed through this incision.
  • Drains are left in place to prevent fluid or blood from accumulating under the sutures.
  • The skin is closed with fine sutures, which usually can be removed about 7 to 10 days after surgery.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

  • Excessive bleeding.
  • Surgical-wound infection.
  • Discoloration of healing skin edges.
  • Development of small, tumor-like cysts (seromas) or collections of blood and serum in the breast tissue as it heals.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--4 to 5 days.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 4 weeks for recovery from surgery.


Postoperative Care

GENERAL MEASURES

  • A small ridge may form along the incision. The ridges will heal and recede gradually without treatment.
  • Use ice packs to reduce swelling and to relieve incisional pain.
  • Bathe and shower as usual. You may wash the incision gently with mild unscented soap.

† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

† To help recovery and aid your well--

    being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.

  • Avoid vigorous exercise for 6 weeks after surgery. > Resume driving 1 month after returning home.

DIET---No special diet.


Call Your Doctor If

† Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.

  • You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
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