BREAST REDUCTION
Breast reduction surgery can be a positive life changing step for some women. Large breasts can be very hard to live with and may lead to a whole variety of problems. Often the weight of the breasts can lead to poor posture and can cause back pain. Sometimes this can make it hard to exercise. Women with large breasts may struggle to find appropriate clothing and large breasts can sometimes cause breast pain as well.
How long will the operation take?
About 2-4 hours
Will I need a General Anaesthetic?
Yes, you will need to be asleep for the surgery.
How many nights will I need to stay in hospital?
Usually you will stay in hospital overnight and go home the next day.
Will it be painful afterwards and how long do I have to have off work?
There is usually some swelling, bruising and some discomfort or pain after this type of surgery. This usually settles gradually after 1-2 weeks. Generally, patients therefore need about 2 weeks off work.
What should I avoid after the operation?
You should find you are able to get up and walk about very soon after you wake from surgery. You will then be able to build up your activities over about 2-4 weeks. Please try to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for about 6 weeks.
What are the risks of the operation?
All operations carry some risks. Bruising, swelling and temporary numbness of the nipple are common with this operation. Infection, bad scarring, asymmetry, bleeding, permanent numbness, nipple / areolar loss, delayed healing, fat necrosis can also occur with this operation but these risks are generally less common.
When will I have appointments after the operation?
You will normally be seen for an appointment at 1-2 weeks and at about 3 months after surgery to ensure that you are recovering well. The scars continue to settle and improve over time and typically fade to the normal skin colour after about 1-2 years.
