Breast Reduction – Is it right for you?
If you have large breasts that may be causing pain in the back or neck or if you suffer from other physical ailments due to large breasts you may be considering Breast Reduction surgery. This is not a simple decision to make but it is sometimes necessary for cosmetic reasons or due to physical or mental strain.
After carefully thinking it through and weighing your options and you decide to have the surgery, you will need to find a surgeon that you will be comfortable with. You will need to meet with him or her first.
Consultation
Before you schedule surgery ask questions and get answers.
This consultation should provide you with all the information you need to decide if this surgery is right for you. The surgeon will go over your medical history and examine you further. Not only should you be in good physical condition but you should also mentally prepare for Breast Reduction surgery. The surgeon may order a breast exam and a mammogram before the surgery.
Before the procedure, be sure you are healthy and ready to go. Eat a well balanced diet as soon as you know that surgery is an option if you aren’t eating healthy already. Be sure to stock up on some supplies that will be used in your recovery such as gauze, clean washcloths, clean towels, ointment for the incision site, and someone to stay with you for the first day or two.
The Procedure
Breast Reduction surgery
may be performed as an outpatient service or you may need to stay in the hospital for approximately one night unless there are complications. General anesthesia will put you to sleep while the surgeon performs the Breast Reduction. The surgery will take two to five hours but can go on longer if necessary.
The surgery starts with the surgeon making an incision just around the nipple and then down on the breast. Excess skin, fat, and tissues are then removed and your nipple will be relocated in order to complete the look of normal breasts. Sometimes it is necessary to insert drainage tubes through the incision site before it is stitched up. You will need to come back later to have the tubes removed. Once the surgery is over the surgeon will wrap your breast in gauze. You may be required to wear a surgical bra until healing begins.
Recovery
Prepare to be off work or school for at least one week to recover. Healing times vary for each person but you can count on at least one week. Listen and follow the standard procedures given from your surgeon and the medical staff in order to take good care of your incision. Prepare to be limited to any activity for at least a month after the surgery. You will need to call your doctor if you notice a yellow discharge coming from the incision site, a fever, or if any of the stitches come out before it is time to remove them.
Take care of yourself. You have just gone through Breast Reduction surgery and things are different for you now. This is a change for you mentally and physically. As the incision heals, the scar will shrink unless you lift on heavy objects before you have completely healed. Breast Reduction surgery is not always the right answer for everyone so make sure you are ready before you schedule your appointment.
For more information about Breast Reduction contact Dr. Pillai today.
