Am I a suitable candidate for Breast Reduction?
If you are suffering from psychological distress and physical discomfort, as a result of having large breasts, a breast reduction operation may be necessary.
Physical problems may include:
- Skin problems.
- Poor posture.
- Excessive sweating and rashes.
- Backache.
- Neck pain.
- Shoulder ache.
- Infections under the breasts.
- Weals or grooves on the shoulders from bra straps.
- An inability to exercise or take part in sports.
Psychological distress can include:
- Difficulty in finding clothes that fit.
- Depression.
- Unwanted attention.
- Harassment.
- Self-consciousness.
Can men have breast reduction surgery too?
Yes. Some men who have large breasts, may need to have male breast reduction surgery, which is a procedure called a gynaecomastia. Unlike for women, male breast reductions are usually required to flatten the breast area.
Who is not a suitable candidate for breast reduction surgery?
Breast reduction surgery is not recommended for women with:
- Breast cancer.
- Uncontrolled diabetes.
- Cellulitis (infection of the soft tissue of the breast).
- Hardened breast skin.
- Dry or broken breast skin.
Also, a woman who intends to breastfeed probably should not have the procedure. It's preferable to delay the procedure until she has had all her children.
So might I be suitable for breast reduction surgery?
This is a question that can only be answered after a full consultation with your plastic or reconstructive surgeon. Determining factors are your age and health.
In general, the best candidates for breast reduction are women who are:
- 18 years of age or older.
- Not currently pregnant or nursing.
- In good physical health.
- Psychologically stable.
- Wanting to improve their appearance.
- Realistic in their expectations.
Will I really feel better about my appearance afterwards?
Breast reduction surgery can result in:
- Improved balance in size and shape.
- Greater ease in finding clothing that fits evenly across the chest.
- Improved sense of comfort, particularly in body-conscious clothing.
What can I do to help achieve the best results?
Before choosing to have breast reduction surgery, make sure that you obtain as much information as is necessary to enable you to make a fully informed choice.
Your surgeon will give you specific instructions regarding preparing for surgery, including guidelines for:
- Eating and drinking.
- Smoking.
- Taking or avoiding vitamins, supplements and medications.
How else can I prepare for this procedure?
Before your surgery, take the opportunity to ask all the questions you have about the procedure.
Also:
- Tell your surgeon about any allergies you have (to foods, drugs, environmental elements).
- Try to schedule surgery at a time other than your menstrual period.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery.
Find out more
Only through an in-depth discussion with your surgeon will you be able to understand the risks, benefits and expected outcomes of this procedure.
If you would like to find out more about breast reduction surgery or arrange a consultation, contact us today on 08707 606 555, or by completing our online enquiry form for an immediate response.
