Women who experience discomfort due to having large breasts may want to consider reduction surgery, also called reduction mammoplasty. This procedure can increase comfort and reduce pain in the upper back, neck, and shoulders.
If you are considering this type of breast surgery, we encourage you to call our office today and schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Matthew H. Steele, MD, to discuss breast reduction in Midlothian.
Breast reduction surgery removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin to decrease breast size, so it is more proportionate to the rest of the body. This surgery has both physical and emotional benefits: it relieves pain, skin irritation, and problems with posture and helps women engage in physical activities while improving their self-image and confidence.
Removing the excess skin and breast tissue allows Dr. Steele to reduce the size of the breast, reshape the breast, and lift the breast to a higher and more youthful position on the chest wall. Women who have this surgery find they can engage in more of their desired activities and enjoy a much wider selection of clothing options.
Women in Midlothian have a variety of reasons for pursuing breast reduction surgery, but their overall goal is an enhanced quality of life. After surgery, many women report feeling more comfortable in their bodies and finding it easier to fit into clothing.
Additionally, overly large breasts can make it more difficult to exercise and increase the risk of skin irritation under the breasts. Furthermore, a smaller breast size reduces back, bra strap, and shoulder pain and may make it easier to breathe.
Women who are good candidates for breast reduction surgery in Midlothian maintain good health and take care of themselves. Someone with an underlying medical condition such as uncontrolled heart disease or Type 2 diabetes may not be a good candidate, as a health problem may increase the risk of surgery or impair healing.
There is no correct age at which to consider breast reduction surgery. Women over age 16 who are in good health may be good candidates as long as they have no current skin infections or irritation around the breast tissue and are non-smokers.
You may consider postponing a breast reduction until after childbearing due to concerns for potential impaired breastfeeding. However, many women will proceed with a breast reduction because of the considerable improvement in quality of life.
Women who plan to lose a significant amount of weight should also postpone the surgery until they have achieved their desired weight. Weight loss after surgery may result in a size that is too small or result in excess breast sagging or ptosis.
When you take time to prepare for a breast reduction, it helps make the recovery smoother. After surgery in Midlothian, you will need a few days to one week off from work. You will also have various activity restrictions. To effectively rest and recover, you should account for the following things in advance:
If you have small children, you will require help with childcare as you will not be able to lift them or raise your arms above your head. If you have pets, you also need help caring for them in the first one to two weeks.
These surgeries are outpatient procedures, and you will not be able to drive yourself home. You need a friend or family member who can drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery.
Consider stocking your refrigerator and freezer with healthy, easy-to-make meals that require little preparation and cleanup.
Set up an area in your home where you can relax in a recliner chair or on a couch with everything you need within easy reach. This can include entertainment, your phone, water, and easy access to the bathroom.
Dr. Steele will give you detailed instructions on how to care for yourself after surgery. You will have drainage tubes exiting just underneath the incision lines on both breasts. These drains remove excess fluid that would otherwise build up under the incisions, speeding healing and reducing the risk of infection. You will be taught how to take care of the drains before you go home.
The initial recovery takes approximately two weeks, during which you can expect to experience some swelling and discomfort. You should avoid any lifting and strenuous activities for the first several weeks after surgery. When you wake up, you will have a support bra that you are asked to wear for the first five to six weeks. This helps reduce swelling and supports breast tissue in the correct position as you heal.
Breast reduction in Midlothian is a significant decision for women. We encourage you to call our office today and schedule your consultation with Dr. Steele so you can learn more about the surgery, what is expected to prepare for surgery, and what you can expect after your procedure. These details help you make an informed decision about whether breast reduction surgery is right for you. For more information, call us today and schedule a consultation.
