Breast reduction Reduction mammaplasty
Technically known as reduction mammoplasty, breast reduction surgery removes fat, glandular tissue and skin from the breasts, leaving them smaller, lighter, lifted and firmer.
Breast reduction surgery is a common aesthetic surgery procedure, primarily because it has a significant functional element.
Heaving large, heavy breasts poses significant physical and psychological problems for many women.
At the time of the consultation your surgeon will take a medical history and ask regarding previous breast surgical procedures or breast problems.
The operation is considered to be a major one and it is important to understand problems related to general health as they will influence the outcome of the surgery.
Breast reduction surgery is considered to be a major surgical intervention and is carried out normally under a general anaesthetic.
It is typically accompanied by one night stay in hospital and the procedure takes approximately 2 hours.
In the early stages after operation, the breasts will probably feel uncomfortable and sometimes painful.
In the beginning, stronger painkillers may be required, but in most instances paracetamol and codeine are sufficient to control the pain and discomfort.
Breast reduction is a major surgical intervention, but a number of elements in the modern approach to the operation have improved the safety profile dramatically.
The general anaesthetic is a small risk on its own irrespective of the type of surgery undertaken.