Breast reduction surgery can bring significant physical and emotional relief to women who suffer from the discomfort and self-consciousness caused by overly large breasts. Benefits include reduced back and neck pain, improved posture, greater freedom in physical activity, and increased confidence. In this article, our plastic surgeons at Blooming also address the considerations, including recovery time, scarring, and the impact on breastfeeding. If large breasts are affecting your quality of life, this guide will help you understand whether breast reduction is the right solution for you.
The decision to undergo a breast reduction is not one you make overnight. At Blooming, we believe it is important to inform you honestly about the advantages and disadvantages of a breast reduction.
Advantages of breast reduction:
- Your breasts become smaller and are simultaneously lifted.
- The weight of your breasts decreases: reduction of pain complaints in your back, neck, and shoulders.
- Your breasts regain their original shape.
- During the operation, the areola is also reduced for the correct proportion.
- Reduction of chafing from bra straps.
- Easier to fit and purchase clothing and lingerie.
- Reduction of skin irritation beneath your breasts.
Disadvantages of breast reduction:
- After the procedure, there are permanent scars; however, after a year these are lighter in colour and less noticeable.
- Reduced sensation around the nipple and areola. This sensation may return over time.
- As with any procedure, it is possible that risks and complications associated with an operation may occur.
The operation was performed perfectly and I would recommend everyone to have a breast reduction at Blooming. The plastic surgeon is highly skilled and knows what they are doing. I am extremely satisfied with the result and enjoy it every day.
The Final Result: Smaller Breasts
With a breast reduction, your breasts and areola are reduced in size, creating the correct proportion. Your breasts are not only smaller, but the loose skin is also removed so that the breasts are lifted and regain their original shape. Immediately after the breast reduction, your breasts will be swollen. Scars are also swollen and red in colour during the first weeks to months. With the right preparation and aftercare, you can accelerate the recovery process. The final result of the breast reduction is therefore not clearly visible until approximately six months after the procedure.
To give you a good impression of the result of the operation, we will show you a number of before-and-after photographs.
Experiences
An excellent clinic. Very pleasant that it is located within a hospital. Highly knowledgeable, friendly, and cheerful staff. A very good, friendly, cheerful, and personable plastic surgeon. Good information, outstanding guidance. The result of my breast reduction is beautiful.
My experience at Blooming clinic and with Dr. Staudt was extremely positive. I am very satisfied with the result of the breast reduction. I was very well informed, guided, and advised beforehand, which enabled me to make the right decision.
Swift Recovery with the Right Aftercare
Our plastic surgeons place great importance on thorough pre- and post-operative care for a breast reduction. To provide you with the best aftercare, you will spend a night in hospital following the procedure. The following day, the nurse and plastic surgeon will determine whether you are able to go home. Arrange for help in the home for the first week after returning home. You must give your body sufficient rest and there are many activities you are not yet permitted to perform.
After approximately two weeks, you will visit the clinic for the first check-up. During this check-up appointment, the plastic surgeon will review the progress of the recovery process and the result of the procedure. The final check-up takes place three months later. By then, the result will be much easier to assess.
Risks and Complications of Breast Reduction
The risk of complications with a breast reduction is minimal, but as with any procedure, the possibility remains. The risks involved and the complications that may occur are therefore very rare:
- Post-operative bleeding or a haematoma in the breast
- Swelling or infections around the operation site
- Allergic reaction
- Asymmetry of the breasts
- A scar that remains visible
- Dissatisfaction with the aesthetic result
- Breastfeeding is sometimes no longer possible
Scars
Initially, the scars are red and swollen, but this usually begins to improve after six weeks. Bear in mind that a scar requires approximately one to one and a half years to reach its final state. Keep scars out of the sun and care for them with a scar cream. In our clinic, we use Staudt scar cream.
Smoking
Stop smoking at least six weeks before until six weeks after the treatment. Smoking narrows the blood vessels, which can cause problems with wound healing. The risk of post-operative bleeding is reduced as soon as you stop smoking.
Make an Appointment
Make an appointment with one of our plastic surgeons to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a breast reduction. Contact us by telephone on 023 544 4974, by email at info@bloomingpc.nl, or make an appointment directly via the contact form.