Breast Reduction – Initial Consultation
Before the mammoplasty procedure a consultation is necessary, during which the patient presents her expectations (the desired size of the reduced breasts) and learns about the surgical methods of reduction. During the consultation the plastic surgeon, taking into account the patient's anatomy and individual preferences, proposes the optimal appearance of the reduced breasts and discusses the planned surgical technique.
Before the procedure a meeting with the anesthesiologist also takes place to agree on the details of anesthesia during the procedure. After the consultation each patient receives detailed preoperative recommendations along with information about the tests she should complete before the procedure.
Breast Reduction – Nutritional Recommendations Before the Procedure
To better prepare for the breast reduction procedure it is also worth following nutritional recommendations. The diet before the procedure must not be restrictive, as protein deficiency impairs healing of postoperative wounds. However, certain modifications are worthwhile. The diet should be easily digestible and fatty products causing bloating should be eliminated. Smoking and alcohol must be stopped completely.
It is also worth paying attention to medications that may cause excessive bleeding, e.g. preparations containing vitamin E, ginkofar, and medications containing acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin and its derivatives). It is also advisable to avoid certain spices: chilli, cayenne pepper, garlic, ginger, saffron, onion, celery, and horseradish may increase the risk of bleeding.
Breast Reduction – Type of Anesthesia
The mammoplasty procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
Breast Reduction – Duration of the Procedure
The mammoplasty procedure, from the moment anesthesia is administered to the fitting of the special bra, takes approximately 3 hours.
Breast Reduction – Course of the Procedure
The mammoplasty procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Various surgical techniques exist. Most commonly the plastic surgeon makes a T-shaped incision (around the nipple, then vertically down the breast and horizontally along the skin fold beneath the breast). Regardless of the chosen technique, during the procedure the surgeon removes excess glandular and adipose tissue, and sometimes also excises excess skin. The procedure is performed with care to preserve the nerves and mammary glands. The areola with nipple is then reduced and repositioned upward. After placing sutures a special bra is applied to support and shape the breasts. The removed breast tissue is sent for histopathological examination.
Breast Reduction – After the Procedure
After the mammoplasty procedure the patient stays for one day under the care of qualified medical staff at Artisan Clinic. Swelling and tenderness may persist for several days after the procedure. Pain lasting several days can be relieved using pain relief medications recommended by the doctor.
Breast Reduction – Postoperative Recommendations
In case of pain it is advisable to use pain relief medications recommended by the doctor. Wearing a shaping postoperative bra for approximately 3 months is recommended to provide breast support. Return to work (depending on its nature) is possible after 2–3 days. However, physical activity should be limited for approximately 2 weeks. During this time sudden movements and lifting heavy objects should be avoided.
From the 3rd week after the procedure the use of scar patches or scar ointments is recommended. Healing scars should be massaged starting 4 weeks after the procedure. Upon leaving Artisan Clinic, each patient receives detailed recommendations for the recovery period.
Breast Reduction – Recovery Time
Initial results of the procedure are visible after just a few days. The final result of breast reduction is visible after approximately 3 months.
