Finding out if you’re a breast reduction candidate and knowing what questions to ask your surgeon will both be important parts of your surgery preparation.
A breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure designed to remove excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to achieve a smaller breast size. It can be elected to address the appearance of the breasts, or there may be other signs that a person may need to undergo the procedure.
Keep reading to learn about these signs, and if they may apply to you. We’ll also suggest some helpful questions to ask your surgeon, giving you an idea of the important aspects of the procedure to consider.
Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Anh will be happy to answer your breast reduction questions during a consultation at our Perth location. She will also discuss your needs and assess if you are a candidate for the surgery.
Signs that you may be a suitable breast reduction candidate
Apart from simply wanting to undergo a breast reduction for aesthetic reasons, there are some signs that the procedure may be more of a medical need.
Firstly, large and heavy breasts can sometimes place significant strain on the body. If you experience persistent pain in your neck, shoulders, or back, it could be a result of the weight of your breasts.
The pain may sometimes be more noticeable with certain activities, such as exercise, standing for long periods, or carrying heavy bags. Some women may also experience nerve pain or headaches caused by the pressure on the neck and upper back.
If you notice deep, painful indentations on your shoulders from bra straps, it can be a sign that your breasts may be too heavy for your frame. Over time, the constant strain from supporting large breasts can cause these grooves to become more pronounced and uncomfortable. However, this may also be an indication that you’re wearing the incorrect bra size, so you’ll need to consider if your breasts are feeling heavy, particularly on your frame, as well.
Larger and heavier breasts can also make it challenging to exercise or remain physically active, as they can interfere with mobility. Not only can this prevent you from participating in activities that you may enjoy, but it can possibly lead to a predominantly sedentary lifestyle, which can then impact your general health and well-being.
Skin problems are another common sign that a breast reduction may be helpful. Excessive breast tissue can cause the skin underneath the breasts to rub together, leading to irritation, redness, and sometimes painful rashes. Sometimes, chronic moisture buildup in the area can even result in infections.
Sometimes, when large breasts pull the shoulders forward, poor posture can develop. Over time, this can lead to spinal alignment issues and chronic pain. If you notice your posture is being affected, despite efforts to correct it, breast reduction surgery may help.
Sleeping comfortably can also be difficult if you have large breasts. You may struggle to find a position that doesn’t cause discomfort, especially if you tend to sleep on your side or stomach. Interrupted sleep can take a toll on your energy levels and overall health.
Finally, having difficulty finding well-fitting bras and clothing may be a sign that shouldn’t be overlooked. While it may not seem like a medical reason, this can affect daily life by not being able to find the right level of support for your breasts, influencing comfort levels.
If you experience one or more of these issues, you may be a suitable breast reduction candidate, and the possibility of undergoing the surgery may be worth exploring. However, it’s essential to have a thorough discussion with a qualified surgeon to determine if the procedure is suitable for your unique needs and goals.
Questions to ask your surgeon before a breast reduction
Once you’ve decided to consult with a surgeon about breast reduction, preparing a list of questions can help you feel more informed about what the procedure involves.
If this is your first time undergoing breast surgery, it can be overwhelming to decide what questions to ask. Here are some key questions that we recommend asking your surgeon during your consultation.
- Am I a good candidate for breast reduction surgery?
Your surgeon will assess your overall health, medical history, and breast-related concerns to determine whether you’re a suitable candidate. They may discuss factors like your weight, skin elasticity, and any underlying medical conditions.
- What can I expect during the procedure?
Ask for a detailed explanation of how the surgery is performed, including the techniques used and where the incisions will be placed. Understanding the process can help you feel more at ease.
- What results can I realistically expect?
It’s important to have realistic expectations about the potential results of breast reduction surgery. Your surgeon can explain how much tissue will be removed and what your breasts may look like after recovery. They may also discuss how the procedure can improve certain symptoms, like pain and posture.
- What type of anaesthesia will be used?
Breast reduction surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia. Make sure you understand the risks and how anaesthesia will be managed during the procedure.
- How long is the recovery process?
Ask about the recovery timeline, including how much time you’ll need to take off work or other daily activities. Your surgeon can also explain when you can resume exercise, lifting, and other physical activities.
- What can I do to prepare for surgery?
Your surgeon may recommend steps to prepare for breast reduction, such as stopping certain medications, quitting smoking, or maintaining a stable weight.
- Are there any risks or complications I should be aware of?
Like any surgery, breast reduction comes with risks such as infection, scarring, or changes in nipple sensation. Ask your surgeon to discuss these risks openly and explain how they can be minimised.
- How will my scars look after surgery?
While scarring is an inevitable part of breast reduction, your surgeon can explain where the incisions will be placed and how scars may fade over time. They can also provide tips for scar management during recovery.
- Will breast reduction surgery affect breastfeeding?
If you plan to have children in the future, ask whether breast reduction surgery might impact your ability to breastfeed. Some techniques are more likely to preserve nipple function than others.
- What results have you previously achieved for other patients?
You may want to ask to see before and after photos of your surgeon’s previous breast reduction. Examples can give you a better idea of what results to expect – however, they cannot be used as direct references for your results, as results will always vary per patient.
- Is breast reduction covered by Medicare or private health insurance?
If you are experiencing any of the signs we discussed earlier, a breast reduction may be considered a medically necessary procedure for you. If this is the case, you may be able to receive a certain level of cover from Medicare or your private health insurance provider for the costs of your procedure. We recommend asking your surgeon about the process.
See Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Anh for a Consultation in Perth
Confirming if you are a suitable breast reduction candidate will require a consultation with a qualified surgeon.
With experience performing breast procedures and the right qualifications, Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Anh can carefully assess your suitability and answer all of your questions.
Please feel free to contact our team and learn how you can arrange your consultation.
