women with large heavy breast may experience several health concerns related to this problem including, back and neck pain, breast pain and rashes under the breast. The added weight of large breasts may exacerbate the symptoms for women with arthritis or spinal problems. Some women are bothered by the psychological embarrassment of large breast, finding it uncomfortable to engage in physical activity or experiencing difficulty in finding clothes that fit.

In the long term, large breasts can lead to increased sagging(ptosis) and as a result of this many women present with a combination of large breasts and ptosis. Women who are very self conscious of the ir large breasts, tend to develop a slouch in their posture, droop in their shoulders and chronic backache. Bra straps tend to dig into their shoulders causing deep indentation. If you have any of these symptoms, breast reduction surgery may be right for you. Breast reduction surgery removes excess fat, glandular tissue and skin to achieve a breast in proportion to your body and reduce the discomfort associated with large breasts. It will not only correct the functional symptoms but also result in better proportioned breasts, enhancing a woman's body image and self confidence. It is recognised world wide that women who have had breast reduction are some of the most satisfied and grateful patients..

Breast reduction is usually done under general anesthesia. There are many ways to do a breast reduction. The procedure essentially consists of excising a wedge of breast gland with the overlying skin. While doing so the nipple is preserved on a bridge of tissue which provides it with blood supply and then translocated to a new higher position. The breast and skin is closed, giving it a smaller and much nicer shape. The final scar will be around the areola and extend vertically down to the inframammary fold in the vertical scar technique of breast reduction. There will be an additional transverse scar in the inframammary fold, if the keyhole pattern (inferior pedicle technique) is used. Your surgeon at “Aesthetics” will be able to guide you about the most suitable technique for you.

Small thin tubes are usually placed after major reductions to drain out any accumulated blood. These drains take about 2 - 5 days to stop draining and are removed once they have stopped draining. You may be discharged home after drains have been removed. The post operative discomfort can be managed quite satisfactorily by regular medication with oral pain killers. You will find that you can discontinue these a week after surgery.

Breast reduction is a refined surgical procedure and is done quite routinely. Like any surgical procedures there are potential risks and complications that your surgeon at Aesthetics will explain in detail. Some of the potential risks include
Accumulation of blood (hematoma),
Infection.
Poor healing at the site of suturing.
These risks are common to many operations. Some risks are specific such as
Decreased sensation at the nipple.
Decreased blood supply at the nipple, which may lead to partial or total necrosis of the nipple. This may need secondary reconstruction. Although this is very rare, the risks are increased in smokers and diabetics and hence, women are advised to stop smoking at least two weeks prior to surgery.
The ability to breast feed after reduction is unpredictable and depends on the extent of reduction and type of technique used. This is best discussed with your surgeon.
The incidence of these risks range from 5 - 10 percent and your surgeon will explain the treatment if they occur.

Initial healing will include swelling and discomfort at the incision sites. A support bra will be recommended for continuos wear for first six weeks. The bruising will take up to 3 weeks to disappear. the swelling may take up to 6 weeks to disappear. The breast shape goes on improving up to 6 months. A return to light activity is possible as soon as you feel ready, usually within 10 days following surgery. All stitches are usually absorbable and will not need removing. You will be advised not to exercise for 6 weeks after surgery, and after that period, you must wear a sports bra while exercising.
Healing will continue for several weeks as swelling dissipates and breast shape and position settle. Scars are initially red and visible for first 6 months but rapidly become soft, supple and fade after that.

A breast reduction can make dramatic change in your appearance and your outlook. A breast reduction can make your breasts smaller and firmer. Many patients find a new enjoyment in sports, exercise, dancing or even walking.