Breast reduction surgery is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries
in the United States. Performed for both cosmetic and health reasons, it
can be an ideal solution for those suffering with disproportionate
breast tissue.
Although hundreds of thousands of women go under the knife each year for
augmentation procedures, breast reductions are also becoming
increasingly popular. In fact, studies suggest that the number of
reduction procedures performed each year has seen a 200% increase since
the early 1990’s. Whether due to weight, shape, or sheer genetics,
disproportionately large breasts can cause not only discomfort, but a
host of health problems. The problem doesn’t only affect women, either;
men are seeking the surgery in overwhelming numbers, often suffering
from excess breast tissue after putting on weight, or just due to
hormonal abnormalities.
The surgery itself is a relatively simple one; before deciding to
undergo a breast reduction, patients are required to have a thorough
examination, often including a mammogram. Once it’s determined that the
patient’s breast tissue is healthy and he or she is a good candidate for
surgery, the doctor will sit down and have a frank and honest
discussion with the client regarding the reasons for desiring the
surgery, and what the ideal goal of the procedure is. For many people,
having the reduction performed eliminates back and neck pain, posture
issues, and even helps promote a better, healthier physical condition.
Many also experience higher levels of energy, self-esteem, and overall
satisfaction with their appearance.
In order to be a candidate for breast reductions, you must be in
relatively good physical shape, and be strong enough to withstand the
effects of general anesthesia. Patients are also given a psychological
examination to ensure the desired goals of the surgery are realistic,
and are not best accomplished through other methods, such as increased
exercise. If a candidate is a smoker or drinks regularly, she will be
required to give up these habits for 6-8 weeks before and following the
operation, to diminish any potential risks and ensure a healthy, timely
healing process. The procedure is sometimes performed on an outpatient
basis, particularly if the patient is young and has a reliable support
system at home. In many cases, however, doctors prefer to have patients
remain in the hospital for observation for a period of 24-48 hours
following surgery.
Most people who have breast reductions need to take 7-14 days off from
work or school following the procedure, more if they have job duties
requiring any sort of heavy lifting. During this time, the incisions
will heal and the body will begin to adjust to its’ new shape. Once the
sutures and bandages are able to be removed, a majority of people are
given permission to resume normal activities, excluding strenuous
exercise, sexual activity, and drugs and alcohol. Patients will have
scars as a result of the operation, although when properly healed, they
will become less noticeable with time. However, strenuous exercise or
prematurely lifting heavy objects may worsen the appearance of scars, or
even cause the wounds to re-open. Always follow medical advice during
the recovery process.
Breast reductions might seem like bad news but sometimes women need them
to deal with the pain that large breasts can cause, if you are
interested please see the following: http://guidetoplasticsurgery.com/.
