The Emotions And Concerns Behind Breast Reduction Surgery

Any cosmetic surgery involves emotional as well as practical decision-making. However, women interested in breast reduction are often more confused due to conflicting messages from peers, the media, and friends and family.

Choosing to have breast reduction surgery can be a very emotional and difficult decision for women. It isn’t a simple surgery and the results cannot be reversed. There is also pressure from men and the media that larger breasts are more ideal, with comments on the Internet often asking, “Why would anyone want to make their chest smaller?” In addition to the emotional aspects, women must consider the logistical issues as well. Is it affordable? Will insurance cover it? What are the risks involved?

Cost

Unless your insurance is willing to cover the costs of breast reduction, there is a good chance you will have to pay up. Prices vary greatly by location with populous states like California and New York routinely costing more. If you choose to get a breast lift in addition, as most women will want to, there will be an additional fee as this is considered a separate surgery. You can expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 including doctor, facility, and anesthesia fees. There may be additional cost associated with follow-up appointments, medication, and other necessities for recovery. Remember that you will also be out of work for a few weeks, resulting in lost income.

Scarring

A breast reduction surgery involves deep and long incisions that end up in highly visible scars on most people. If you are prone to raised or swollen-appearing scar tissue, known as keloids, there is a high probability that these will develop on your chest. When considering this procedure, you must decide whether the aesthetic disadvantages of scars are less than any issues that your bust is causing you. The scars cannot be reversed, although there are revision surgeries that may help lessen their appearance slightly, but more often than not they will be largely permanent. The shape of the incision is that of an anchor, with a long curved cut under the breast crease and then a single vertical line going upwards to the nipple. It can be easily concealed even in a swimsuit, but if your goal is to have a perfect chest, then this is not the procedure to undergo.

Pregnancy

If you are still planning on becoming pregnant in the future, it is better to wait until after in order to have a breast reduction. The chest often grows due to fluctuating hormones and milk production. In some cases the excess volume in the chest gained will be lost once breast feeding finishes, but other women find that they keep all if not a portion of the increased tissue. Certain surgical techniques may also make breast-feeding difficult if not impossible, which is why if you are having surgery before giving birth, it is important to discuss the possibility with your surgeon.

Risks

The common risks that are associated with most cosmetic procedures still apply to breast reduction. These include infection, hematoma, numbness, scarring, uneven results, bruising, pain, and swelling. In order to minimize complications, it is advisable to alert your doctor immediately if something is wrong and to follow their recovery instructions carefully. Allowing excess time for bed rest and delaying a return to normal activities for a bit longer can also help ensure a successful recovery.

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