Breast reduction (mammoplasty) can help women with too large a bust size to increase their personal well-being and alleviate physical discomfort. This is because breasts that are too large can lead to tension, postural problems and back pain, as well as being a psychological burden. We inform you about the procedure as well as possible risks of breast surgery and answer the most important questions about the topic of costs and cost absorption for breast reduction.
Breast reduction without surgery
If the breasts are too large in women, this can lead to health problems: Back pain and tension caused by the weight of the breasts are particularly common. In addition, there can be pain from bra straps cutting into the breasts, as well as infections in the inframammary fold. Some women are also restricted in their freedom of movement and have problems playing sports. In addition to physical problems, too large breasts can also cause psychological problems. If such health problems are present, it is advisable to think about breast reduction. However, before the decision for surgery is made, alternatives should also be considered. For example, an attempt can be made to reduce the amount of fatty tissue in the breast through exercise or weight reduction. Frequently, health insurance companies also initially refer to such alternative therapies. However, physiotherapy, manual therapy as well as weight reduction do not always show effect – then breast reduction is the last resort for many women.
Breast reduction and breast lift
A surgical procedure such as a breast reduction should be well considered – that is why a detailed discussion with the attending physician takes place before each operation. It is important to choose him carefully, because the result of breast reduction depends largely on the skill of the surgeon. During the consultation, the patient can describe her expectations of the procedure and it will be discussed whether and to what extent breast reduction is possible and reasonable. The doctor will also explain how the breasts will look after the surgery. Often, when a breast reduction is performed, a breast lift is also performed at the same time, because if larger amounts of tissue are removed, the skin must also be tightened accordingly afterwards. The breast lift prevents the breasts from sagging after surgery and gives the breasts a firm shape.
Procedure of breast reduction
Breast reduction is performed under general anesthesia. Usually, the procedure takes about two to three hours. During surgery, excess fatty and glandular tissue is removed from the breast, reducing the volume of the breast. In addition, the plastic surgeon removes excess skin and relocates the nipple further up. Often, the nipples also contain a smaller diameter to match the shape of the breast. There are several surgical techniques to choose from for breast reduction, but they differ only in the incision (T- L-, i- and O-method). Common to all methods is that the access is made around the areola. Starting from this, the incision is often made vertically downwards. Depending on the surgical technique, the size and visibility of the scars vary. However, by using self-sealing suture material, a good result can usually be achieved in the long term. After the procedure, the patient should remain in the hospital for about two days for observation.
After breast reduction
If the breast reduction has gone according to plan, the breasts will look smaller and usually firmer after the surgery. However, the new breast shape can only be definitively assessed after a few weeks, as the breasts still stand relatively high immediately after the procedure. However, every woman who undergoes breast reduction should also be aware that the condition brought about by the breast reduction will only last for a certain period of time. Over the years, even a breast that has been operated on will change due to age. In order to prevent excessive swelling of the breasts after breast reduction, a special bandage in the form of a bra is usually applied to the patient. Small drains are used to drain off the wound fluid that accumulates – this helps to prevent major bruising. The stitches can be removed about two to three weeks after the operation.Afterwards, it is recommended to care for the scars regularly so that the incisions heal better. As a rule, however, they remain visible for at least a year. In order not to jeopardize the healing process, water should not come into contact with the operated areas for at least 48 hours after the operation. Exactly how long the wounds should not come into contact with water should always be discussed with your attending physician in each individual case. Following the operation, it is advisable to refrain from sports for about six weeks. A special bra or a well-fitting sports bra should be worn for the same length of time, both during the day and at night.