Breast Reduction, medically known as Reduction Mammoplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure designed to reduce the size and weight of overly large breasts. While it is a significant operation, it is not classified as major surgery in the traditional medical sense.
What Classifies as Major Surgery?
Major surgery typically involves operations on vital organs within the head, chest, abdomen, or pelvic region—such as heart surgery, brain surgery, or procedures involving the lungs or digestive tract. These surgeries are usually life-saving or required for critical health conditions.
In contrast, Breast Reduction is considered an elective plastic surgery. It primarily involves the removal of skin, fat, and glandular tissue to reshape and reduce the size of the breasts. While it does not involve vital organs and is not life-threatening, it is still a complex and invasive procedure that should not be taken lightly.
Are There Risks?
Yes. Like all surgical procedures, Breast Reduction carries potential risks and complications, including infection, bleeding, adverse reactions to anaesthesia, and changes in nipple sensation. For this reason, it is crucial to choose a qualified and experienced specialist plastic surgeon like Dr Drielsma to perform the procedure.
What Is Breast Reduction?
Breast Reduction surgery is performed to alleviate the physical discomfort caused by overly large breasts. It involves the removal of excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin to alter the size and shape of the breasts. The procedure can also lift the breasts to a higher position to help achieve a more comfortable and aesthetic outcome.
Is Breast Reduction Right for Me?
A Breast Reduction is a highly individualised procedure and may not be appropriate for everyone. Your suitability will depend on your physical health, medical history, goals, and expectations. Dr Drielsma will thoroughly assess these factors during your consultation.
You may be a suitable candidate for Breast Reduction if you:
- Are physically healthy.
- Have realistic expectations.
- Are bothered by overly large breasts.
- Have skin irritation beneath the breast crease.
- Experience back, neck and/or shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breasts.
- Have regular indentations from bra straps that support large breasts.
- Suffer from enlarged areolas caused by stretched skin or your nipples rest below the breast crease when unsupported.
Breast Reduction may also be a good option if your breasts:
- Are fully developed
- Hang low
- Limit your physical activity
- Have stretched skin
It is important to know that the shape and size of your breasts before surgery will influence your surgical procedure and outcome.
Does Breast Reduction Require Anaesthesia?
Yes, Breast Reduction surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. This means you will not be conscious for the procedure.
Twilight sedation or local anaesthesia is not recommended for this type of surgery due to the complexity and duration of the operation. Your anaesthetist will review any medications, allergies, or pre-existing conditions for your safety and comfort during the procedure.
How Should I Prepare for Breast Reduction Surgery?
Dr Drielsma will provide detailed pre-operative instructions. You may be asked to:
- Provide a full medical history, including current medications and allergies.
- Stop taking blood thinning medications like aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Discontinue herbal supplements such as garlic, ginkgo, ginseng, and St. John’s Wort, which may increase bleeding risk.
- Arrange transportation to and from the hospital.
- Organise someone to stay with you for at least the first 24 hours after surgery
It’s also helpful to prepare a recovery space at home with items such as:
- Extra pillows to support your back and arms.
- Easy-to-reach essentials, including water, phone, and medications.
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothes.
- Ice packs to reduce swelling.
What Does Breast Reduction Cost?
Cost is also an important element in plastic surgery, including breast reduction procedures. Prices for individual surgeries can also vary widely between surgeons. Factors that influence the cost include:
- The surgeon’s experience
- The type of procedure
- Hospital or surgical facility costs
- Anaesthetist and anaesthesia fees
- Medical tests
- Medications
- Post-surgical garments
What Is Recovery Like After Breast Reduction?
You should expect some bruising, swelling, discomfort, and temporary numbness during your recovery. Dr Drielsma will prescribe pain relief to manage any discomfort.
You will need to wear a supportive surgical bra or elastic bandages to help reduce swelling and support the healing tissues. Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and overhead reaching for several weeks as advised by Dr Drielsma.
Always follow your post-operative instructions carefully and attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.
Choose a Trusted Specialist Plastic Surgeon
If you are considering Breast Reduction surgery, it’s essential to choose a surgeon who is qualified, experienced, and understands your unique needs and goals.
Dr Drielsma is a specialist plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast surgery. He is known for using the “Lollipop” (Vertical Mammoplasty) technique, which reduces scarring while delivering excellent results tailored to each patient’s body shape and needs.
Book a Consultation
If you are considering a breast reduction procedure, contact Dr Drielsma and his team to book a consultation.
