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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