Breast Reduction

Breast reduction, also known as mammaplasty, is no “simple” operation, there is always a risk of complication such as bleeding and infection, however it is a risk with any surgery, but with a well-trained specialist in plastic surgery such as Dr. Nizar Chehab risks are reduced.

Depending on your age and heredity for breast cancer, you may need to do a mammogram (a breast X-ray), before the operation.

Avoid tobacco and alcohol at least 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after the operation. You can reduce risk by carefully follow the instructions you receive before and after the operation. Smokers are at greater risk for complications and have a worse healing.

Breast reduction operation takes about 2 hours, you will be under general anesthesia, breast tissue and skin is removed. Sometimes liposuction needs to be supplemented for best results. The breasts are shaped to then sewn together with stitching that the body will take care of, no stitches to be removed.

During the operation the fat and glandular tissue are removed. Nipple is moved up to a new location.

You will be swollen and have some bruising after surgery, swelling may remain for several month but decreases over time, bruises disappear within a few weeks. You will need pain relievers, discuss with the doctor what you should take.

Shower: you do after the first return visit. You will receive information on the bond change before you go home; you will also have to come back for a follow up checkup.

Avoid lifting heavy weights for 1 month, training and exercising can be usually started within 6-8 weeks after the surgery. You can usually return to your job after 1-3 weeks. Depending on the work you have.

Keep in mind that breast reduction operation leaves scars behind. You will have scars around the nipple, a line from the nipple to the down fold of the breast and one in the fold under the breast. All scars heal differently it varies from person to person. Scars from breast reduction will not disappear completely, but with time they will fade. Remember that healing takes time up to 12-18 month before the final results can be seen.

Breast-feeding ability can be affected; insensibility of the nipples can be altered. If you ever gave birth after the surgery breast-feeding operation might be expected, this is why it is advised to go through breast reduction if you decided not to have children anymore. Discuss carefully with your plastic surgeon your expectations and what is realistic for you.