Contrary to what some may believe, a healthy body image and mental well-being aren’t always the result of having big breasts. While a breast reduction might seem inconceivable for many small-breasted women, others see it as freedom from the physical constraints they face on a daily basis.
From back pain and posture problems to limitations when it comes to clothing choices and sports activities, the consequences of a being busty are often unexpected, yet they can be very harmful.
Do you find yourself in this situation, but need more information before taking the plunge? Take the time to learn everything you can about breast reduction surgery. You’ll then be much better equipped to make a well-informed decision.
Counteracting breast hypertrophy to restore harmony to the body
Aside from the medical and esthetic inconveniences of very large breasts, they often appear overly heavy in relation to the person’s general morphology. The onset of the phenomenon known as breast hypertrophy or macromastia can occur at puberty, following one or more pregnancies, as part of the normal aging process or as a result of fluctuations in weight. Breast reduction surgery helps restore balance to the body, resulting in a figure that’s more proportionate and flattering.
Although breast reduction surgery is a very common procedure, many women who are considering it don’t have a clear picture of the details. You should know that there are really no major contraindications. Even so, your surgeon will be the one who ultimately determines whether or not you’re a suitable candidate.
As long as the breasts are fully developed, age isn’t a factor. Young women and old women, alike, can have the procedure. However, you should be aware of all the factors that can have an effect on your bust after the operation. To guarantee optimal results, it’s important for you to have maintained a stable weight for at least a year. You should also wait 6 to 12 months after a pregnancy to have the procedure done and wait at least a year afterwards before getting pregnant again.
The way you feel is a very important consideration. Before the procedure, you and your practitioner should sit down and discuss your expectations and the final breast size you’re hoping for. The respect and compassion you experience during this interaction should nurture feelings of trust and put your mind at ease.
What to expect during and after a breast reduction operation
Breast reduction surgery takes approximately four hours and is done under general anesthesia. The first step is to remove excess skin and tissue. The second step, aimed at restoring your breasts’ volume, contour and firmness, consists of repositioning the areola and nipple. Finally, the quality of the sutures is very important, as this will play a role in ensuring a natural, proportional appearance.
When Dr. Bernier and his team see patients rediscover their confidence and zest for life, they feel gratified knowing that they’ve made a difference. To minimize the stress of the experience as much as possible, they take the time to address all of the questions and concerns that inevitably come up. Will the sutures leave ugly scars that could mar the appearance of your breasts and undermine the relief you were hoping to find? Will there be a long, painful convalescence? What are the risks of postoperative complications?
At Dr. Mario F. Bernier’s Aesthetic Surgery and Medicine Clinic, they use an incision technique called the “boat anchor” because of the way it’s shaped. This type of incision leaves very discreet, barely visible scars. However, you must be patient, as optimal results won’t be achieved until approximately a year after the operation.
Breast reduction: before and after
Below are a few photos of patients before and after their breast reduction surgery. You’ll find more in our photo gallery.
Breast reduction with periareola, vertical and horizontal incisions (1 month post-operative)
Breast reduction with periareola, vertical and horizontal incisions (3 months post-operative)
On the average, the recovery period lasts about two weeks, during which Dr. Bernier will be available at all times to reassure you, for example, to explain any changes you might see in your sutures or anything else that might have you worried. But you can rest assured that complications are relatively rare, especially considering the scope of breast reduction surgery and the positive impact it will have on your life.
Contact Clinique de chirurgie et médecine esthétique Dr Mario F. Bernier for further information.