Common Myths about Breast Reduction Surgery
Breast reduction surgery, medically known as reduction mammoplasty, is a significant decision that many women contemplate for various reasons, ranging from health concerns to personal comfort. However, the internet is rife with misconceptions and myths about this procedure, often causing confusion and undue worry among potential candidates. It’s crucial to separate fact from fiction when considering any surgical procedure, and breast reduction surgery is no exception. In this blog post, we will debunk 8 common myths about breast reduction surgery, providing accurate and essential information that can help you make an informed decision about your health and well-being.
Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna, a seasoned and respected plastic surgeon in Chester, UK, has become a trusted name in the realm of breast reduction surgery. Her vast experience and expertise allow her to consistently deliver excellent surgical results that prioritise the health, satisfaction, and comfort of her patients. Utilising state-of-the-art surgical techniques, Consultant plastic surgeon Anca Breahna ensures that each patient achieves a balanced, natural-looking breast size that complements their overall body proportion. Her commitment to patient-centric care is demonstrated in her personalised treatment approach, where she thoroughly discusses and considers each patient’s unique needs, concerns, and aesthetic goals.
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Myth 1: Only Women Get Breast Reduction Surgery
One of the most common misconceptions about breast reduction surgery is that it’s a procedure exclusively for women. While it’s true that a significant majority of patients are women, men too can and do undergo breast reduction surgeries. The condition known as gynaecomastia, which leads to the enlargement of male breast tissue, can sometimes be effectively treated through breast reduction surgery. This can occur due to various reasons including hormonal imbalances, obesity, and certain medications. Men opt for breast reduction surgery not only for aesthetic reasons but also to alleviate physical discomfort and improve self-confidence. So, the idea that breast reduction surgery is only applicable to women is indeed a myth. Always remember that plastic surgery does not discriminate based on gender, and men seeking a more proportionate chest contour can definitely benefit from this procedure.
Myth 2: Breast Reduction is Purely Cosmetic
While it’s true that breast reduction surgery can greatly enhance one’s appearance and self-confidence, it’s a myth to consider this procedure purely cosmetic. Many individuals opt for breast reduction surgery due to serious physical discomfort and health issues associated with having overly large breasts. The weight of large breasts can lead to chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain, poor posture, and skin issues such as rashes and infections under the breasts. The procedure can also alleviate difficulties during physical activities, enabling a more active and healthy lifestyle. It’s important to understand that breast reduction surgery often serves a dual purpose – it not only improves aesthetic appeal but also significantly enhances a person’s quality of life by relieving physical discomfort.
Myth 3: The Procedure Leaves Extensive Scarring
One of the prevalent myths about breast reduction surgery is that it leaves behind extensive, noticeable scarring. While it’s true that all surgical procedures involve some degree of scarring, the visibility and extent of these scars can vary widely depending on the surgeon’s skill, the specific surgical technique used, and the individual’s personal healing process. Advanced techniques are used to place incisions in less visible areas and promote better healing, thereby reducing the appearance of scars. Over time, most scars fade significantly and can be easily concealed under clothing, swimwear, or a bra. It’s important to discuss this concern with your consultant plastic surgeon, as she can provide a realistic expectation about scarring based on your specific surgical plan.
Myth 4: It’s Impossible to Breastfeed after a Breast Reduction
The belief that breastfeeding becomes impossible after a breast reduction is a common myth that can deter many potential candidates. While certain surgical techniques may affect breastfeeding capability due to the removal or repositioning of glandular tissue and milk ducts, it’s not an absolute. Many women have successfully breastfed after undergoing a breast reduction. The possibility of breastfeeding post-surgery largely depends on the specific surgical technique used and the individual patient’s body. It’s important to communicate your future family plans with your consultant plastic surgeon during your consultation. She can discuss this aspect in detail and possibly tailor the surgical approach to maximise the chances of preserving your ability to breastfeed.
Myth 5: Breast Reduction Leads to Loss of Sensation
Another myth associated with breast reduction surgery is that it leads to a permanent loss of sensation in the breasts, particularly the nipple area. While it’s true that changes in sensation, including numbness or increased sensitivity, can occur after surgery, these changes are often temporary and improve over time as the body heals. Permanent loss of sensation is not common and happens only in a small percentage of cases. The specific surgical technique used can also play a role in this, with some methods more likely to preserve sensation than others. Your consultant plastic surgeon will discuss potential risks, including changes in breast or nipple sensation, with you prior to the procedure.
Myth 6: Recovery from Breast Reduction is Extremely Painful
It’s a misconception that recovery from breast reduction surgery is extremely painful. While some discomfort is normal after any surgical procedure, severe pain is not typical. Pain can usually be managed effectively with prescribed medications and most patients report that discomfort significantly subsides within a few days to a week. Following your consultant plastic surgeon’s post-operative instructions can also help minimise discomfort and promote healing.
Myth 7: The Results of Breast Reduction Surgery are Permanent, Regardless of Weight Fluctuation or Pregnancy
Although the results of breast reduction surgery are generally long-lasting, they can be influenced by significant weight changes or pregnancy. Weight gain can cause the breasts to enlarge, while pregnancy and breastfeeding can lead to changes in breast size and shape. Therefore, for long-lasting results, it’s recommended to maintain a stable weight.
Myth 8: Anyone with Large Breasts Should Get a Reduction
The decision to undergo a breast reduction should be based on personal discomfort, health concerns, and personal preference, not simply breast size. Just because a person has large breasts does not automatically mean they should have a reduction. Breast reduction is a personal decision and should be considered if the size of your breasts is causing physical discomfort or affecting your quality of life or self-esteem. Each person’s body is unique, and what might be large on one person may be proportionate on another. Therefore, the decision should always be personal and made in consultation with a qualified surgeon.
FAQs about Breast Reduction Surgery
What kind of anaesthesia is used during breast reduction surgery?
- Breast reduction surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia, meaning you’ll be completely asleep during the procedure. In some cases, the procedure may be done with local anaesthesia and sedation, where the chest area is numbed and you’re relaxed but awake.
How can I prepare for breast reduction surgery?
- Preparation for breast reduction surgery involves several steps. You’ll need to have a detailed discussion with your consultant plastic surgeon about your medical history and any medications you’re taking. You may need to stop taking certain medications or adjust the dosages before surgery. It’s also recommended to quit smoking for a period before and after the surgery, as smoking can affect healing. Lastly, you’ll need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure and stay with you for the first 24 hours post-surgery.
Can men also have breast reduction surgery?
- Yes, men can also have breast reduction surgery. The procedure is often performed to treat a condition called gynaecomastia, which causes swelling of the breast tissue in boys and men due to an imbalance of the hormones oestrogen and testosterone.
What should I expect during the post-surgical follow-up visits?
- During your post-surgical follow-up visits, your consultant plastic surgeon will examine your breasts to check the healing process, remove any stitches if necessary, and address any concerns or complications. You’ll also discuss any new symptoms or changes you’ve noticed. It’s essential to keep these appointments to ensure the best results from your surgery.
Can breast reduction surgery help improve posture?
- Breast reduction surgery can potentially improve posture in women who had large, heavy breasts that led to a hunched or forward-leaning posture. By reducing the weight of the breasts, it can alleviate strain on the neck, shoulders, and back, making it easier to maintain an upright posture. However, long-standing posture issues may also involve muscular imbalances that need physical therapy or exercises to fully correct.
Further Reading about Breast Surgery with Consultant plastic surgeon Anca Breahna
- Read Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna’s Breast Reduction Surgery Page
- Read Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna’s Breast Asymmetry Surgery Page
- Read Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna’s Macromastia/ Large Breasts Page
- Read Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna’s Blog How to Reduce Scars after Breast Reduction Surgery
- Read Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna’s Blog Plastic Surgery Procedures to Get Bigger Breasts
- Read Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna’s Blog 10 Things to Consider Before a Breast Reduction
- Read Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna’s Blog Cosmetic Surgery for Women in UK
- Read Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna’s Blog How to Get Rid of Man Boobs – Causes and Treatment Options
- Read Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna’s Blog Who Is the World’s Best Breast Reduction Surgeon?
Medical References for Breast Reduction Surgery
- Breast Reduction Surgery Guide | ABCS
- Breast Reduction – Cleveland Clinic
- Breast Reduction – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
- Breast Reduction Surgery – WebMD
- Breast Reduction Surgery | Johns Hopkins Medicine
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Ms Anca Breahna, PhD, MSc, FEBOPRAS, FRCS (Plast) is a highly regarded Consultant Plastic Surgeon specialising in the field of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery. Anca performs a range of breast, body and face surgery and minor skin procedures.
