Women Health Matters

Breast Reduction: To get Large breast back into shape

Breast reduction is a surgical procedure that is used to reduce the size of breasts in women who have excessively heavy breasts. In medical terminology it is also known as reduction mammaplasty. In this form of surgery, the heavy breasts are modified to get a proper shape by removing the skin, extra fat and glandular tissue. After the surgery, the size of your breasts will be in proportion to that of your body. Post surgery it is a big relief to get rid of the uneasiness and embarrassment that is associated with excessively large breasts.

There are various breast reduction techniques and these are administered on the basis of the condition of the individual willing to go for the process.  Some of these techniques are:

The Vertical Scar Technique

This technique of breast reduction is becoming popular with each passing day, especially in the United States, owing to the fact that it results in minimal scarring and finally leads to a good shape of the breasts after the surgery.  It includes the use of pedicles of variable degrees. They may lack the horizontal component that is common in other conventional incisions.  The vertical scar technique yields long term results. The reduction process takes place by removing the inferior and lateral tissues of the breast.

The Free nipple graft technique

The free nipple graft technique is the chosen procedure for patients who suffer from ischemia to the NAC so that there is no sloughing once the surgery is over.  Women who are active smokers, diabetics and have drooping breasts measuring 20cm from the IMF to the nipple are the ones that undergo this kind of breast reduction surgery.  The nipple and the surrounding areola are relocated and placed as a skin graft on a higher position on the breast.

The Horizontal scar technique

In this technique of breast reduction a scar is used on the lines of the inframammary fold and a round cut made for NAC. It requires the conventional “wise pattern” surgery and abstains from the vertical wedge excision.  It is advantageous in the sense that there is no scar on the meridian.

Inferior pedicle technique

It is alternatively known as the Inverted T or keyhole or even the wise pattern reduction. The incision is made around the area of the areola and is in the shape of an anchor. Most cosmetic surgeons resort to this technique as it is the most tried and tested form of breast reduction.

Liposuction only technique

This is used for women who are in a relatively better position than those with excessively heavy breasts.  Women who have more fat, a good skin and thin breast tissue opt for this method.

Patients who are advised breast reduction surgery are asked to go for a thorough medical examination, avoid any kind of strong medication that includes anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin and herbal medicines as well. Intake of certain medicines is necessary but that needs to be done in consultation with your surgeon.  It is necessary to stop smoking well in advance of your scheduled surgery.