Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast Reduction Surgery, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves making incisions in your skin to reduce the size and weight of your breasts. When performed for cosmetic reasons, this surgery can also address issues like breast sagging.

Aside from reducing the overall size of your breasts, this procedure will elevate your nipples and the breast mound higher on your chest, typically leading to an improved breast shape.

Whether you were assigned female at birth (AFAB) or assigned male at birth (AMAB), you may be a suitable candidate for breast reduction. Individuals who were assigned male at birth and have conditions like gynecomastia, which leads to abnormal enlargement of male breasts, may also consider breast reduction as a viable option.

The success and safety of your breast reduction surgery hinge on your willingness to be completely open and forthright during your consultation. Being able to openly discuss your motivations for seeking the surgery, your expectations, desired results, and undergoing a comprehensive medical assessment are critical steps in achieving the best possible outcome. The pre-evaluation process includes:

• Assessing your overall health and identifying any pre-existing medical conditions or risk factors
• Conducting an examination of your breasts, including detailed measurements of their size, shape, skin condition, and the positioning of your nipples and areolas
• Capturing photographs of your breasts for inclusion in your medical records
• Engaging in discussions about your available options and receiving recommendations for a suitable treatment plan
• Conversations about the expected outcomes of the procedure, as well as any potential risks or complications
• Addressing the use of anesthesia during the surgical procedure

The planning phase for breast reduction surgery may additionally involve:

• A mammogram
• Abstaining from smoking for at least six weeks before and after the surgery
• Refraining from taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications, and herbal supplements to minimize the risk of bleeding during the surgery

Depending on your specific circumstances, breast reduction surgery can be conducted either in an outpatient facility or may necessitate an overnight stay in the hospital. In either scenario, you will receive general anesthesia, which means you will be rendered unconscious during the procedure. It is essential to have someone accompany you who can drive you back home and stay with you, particularly if you won't be staying overnight in the hospital.

The surgical procedure itself typically lasts approximately three to five hours. Your surgeon will create an incision encircling your nipple and extending downward on your breast, forming a keyhole shape. Excess skin, tissue, and fat will be removed, and the nipple will be repositioned before closing the incisions. Drainage tubes may be used by your surgeon, followed by suturing the incision and applying a dressing. If deemed necessary by your surgeon, you may be instructed to wear a surgical bra.

Just like any major surgical procedure, breast reduction surgery carries potential risks such as infection, scarring, and bleeding. Additionally, there are anesthesia-related side effects to consider, including nausea, dry mouth, or a sore throat.

Furthermore, there can be some specific risks and side effects associated with this surgery such as:

• Numbness in the nipples
• Scars that may appear puckered
• Development of internal scars leading to a bumpy texture
• Possibility of incisions opening, particularly at the lower portion
• Stitches not dissolving and coming out
• Breast asymmetry
• Alterations in nipple shape
• Challenges with breastfeeding
• In rare instances, insufficient blood flow to the nipple and areola, resulting in a condition known as nipple necrosis

Additionally, it is advisable to discuss any plans for future pregnancies with your surgeon, as this may impact the shape and size of your breasts post-surgery. In some cases, doctors may recommend waiting until you have completed your childbearing before undergoing the procedure.

You may expect following immediately following the surgery:

• Your breasts will be wrapped in bandages and secured with a surgical bra to maintain their position
• Drainage tubes may be inserted under each arm to remove any excess blood or fluids
• You may be prescribed pain medication and antibiotics to minimize pain and reduce the risk of infection

You may expect following in the initial days to a week after the procedure:

• Your breasts are likely to experience tenderness
• Swelling and bruising of the breasts may occur
• You will wear a front-closing surgical bra for breast support

You may expect following subsequently after a week:

• Its crucial to restrict physical activity for a period of 4 to 6 weeks while allowing your breasts to heal
• Continuously wear an approved surgical bra to facilitate healing and reduce swelling
• Over the time, scarring will naturally fade
• A follow-up appointment with your surgeon will be necessary to assess your recovery progress

You may expect following changes in your life after Breast Reduction Surgery:

• Plan for a minimum of one week off from work or school post-surgery, although some may need up to two weeks, as it varies per individual
• Your surgeon will provide instructions for follow-up appointments to remove bandages and sutures
• Expect to refrain from strenuous physical activity for at least one month post-surgery
• Understand that breast reduction surgery can be physically and emotionally demanding, so maintaining open communication with your doctor is essential
• Successful breast reduction surgery can alleviate upper back, neck, and shoulder pain, as well as improve your ability to participate in physical activities and boost your self-image
• Immediate results will be apparent, but complete swelling reduction and fading of surgical scars may take several months
• Typically, the final outcome is long-lasting, but factors like aging, weight changes, pregnancy, and other variables can potentially impact breast shape and size over time

Based on a survey conducted from 2000 to 2010, more than 95% of the women who participated expressed satisfaction with their breast reduction surgery. They also expressed willingness to undergo the procedure again. This underscores the enhancement in the patients quality of life, irrespective of the extent of breast tissue reduction. Additionally, it implies that the patient's size and weight do not influence this favorable outcome.

The cost of Breast Reduction Surgery in India are quite affordable than in the Western nations, while still maintaining world-class quality. The typical price of this surgery ranges from approximately $ 89,615 ($1,127) to $ 2,42,921 ($3,055).

Following are the factors affecting cost of Breast Reduction Surgery in India:

• Out of pocket expense
• Health insurance coverage
• Consultation fees
• Pre-Surgical expenses
• Breast size and weight
• Surgery cost
• Hospital fees
• Doctor fees
• Patients age
• Type of procedure
• Overall health status of the patients
• Complications involved after the surgery
• City where hospital is located

The cost of diagnostic tests and evaluations linked to breast reduction surgery can fluctuate due to several factors. These factors include the particular tests needed, your choice of healthcare facility or clinic, and your geographical location. These diagnostic evaluations may include pre-operative assessments, mammogram, photographs, allergy tests, blood tests, urine tests, and other evaluations aimed at confirming your suitability for the procedure. The approximate cost of diagnostics for breast reduction surgery is INR 2000-5000.

MedFlick, your trusted healthcare companion, is dedicated to ensuring that your medical journey goes as smoothly and successfully as possible.

• Individualized Guidance: Personalized guidance throughout your medical journey.
• Access to a broad network of prominent hospitals, top doctors, and skilled surgeons.
• Transparent and Competitive Pricing: A full breakdown of treatment costs that eliminates surprises and offers you cost-effective solutions.
• MedFlick provides everything from travel arrangements to hotel and visa help to lodging.
• Multilingual Support: Breaking down language barriers to allow patients and medical professionals to communicate more effectively.
• The road to a successful breast reduction surgery is challenging, full of hope, resilience, and the promise of a brighter future. With MedFlick as your guide, navigating this life-changing adventure becomes simple and liberating.