Breast reduction surgery (reduction mammaplasty) removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to reduce the size of the breasts, improve their shape, and provide a more symmetrical look to the chest. Both men and women can opt for this gender-neutral procedure. The enlargement of the breast tissue in males is known as gynecomastia.
This surgery relieves uneasiness caused by large breasts, such as back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, and poor posture. It also boosts self-confidence and is a popular procedure, with around 100,000 surgeries performed each year.
Breast reduction helps to reshape the breast tissue and reposition the nipple and areola. This surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes around 2–4 hours to complete as an outpatient procedure.
Reasons for Breast Reduction Surgery
This surgery is suggested for people with large breasts. This surgery relieves people from physical discomfort, such as chronic pain or rashes. Smokers or people who are very obese are not suggested to undergo this surgery. This surgery should be performed on the fully developed breasts. The surgery involves removing surplus breast tissue, fat, and skin to reduce the size and weight of your breasts. Non-surgical treatments like regular exercise and wearing supportive bras can also help to lessen symptoms associated with large breasts.This surgery is meant for the following people:
- Who has chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain
- Who has shoulder grooves
- Who has continuing rash or skin irritation under the breasts
- Who has nerve pain
- Those who are not able to take part in some physical activities
- Those who experience poor self-consciousness due to large breasts
- Who faces difficulty in exercising and fitting into bras and clothing
- Who experiences difficulty in sleeping or breathing due to the weight of the breasts
Different Types of Breast Reduction Surgery
The most commonly used breast reduction techniques are:
- Vertical Reduction Pattern: It involves incisions forming a circle around the areola and a straight line beneath. It is appropriate for patients needing minor to moderate sizes of tissue to be removed.
- Wise Incision (Anchor Pattern): It is used for patients with larger breasts or who need extra tissue to be removed. This technique involves a vertical line down from the areola scar and a horizontal line under each breast, forming an upside-down “T” or anchor shape.
- Liposuction: It is used for breast reduction by removing only the body fat from the breast region. This minimally invasive approach results in fewer incisions and scars compared to open breast reduction surgery.
- Breast lift augmentation: It raises the nipples during breast reduction surgery using the small cuts above the nipple. It is different from breast augmentation.
Conditions that need Breast Reduction Surgery
- Gynecomastia Surgery: This procedure can involve surgery and may need additional procedures for excess skin and nipple relocation.
- Bilateral Mastectomy: It can include breast reduction as part of the process for gender affirmation.
- Breast Cancer: This surgery can be part of managing breast cancer through the removal of the tumour and reducing the risk of cancer recurrence. This surgery provides a symmetrical look by effectively treating the cancer in the breasts.
Risks Associated with Breast Reduction Surgery
There are risks associated with this surgery such as:
- Excessive bleeding
- Infection
- Anesthesia side effects
- Bruising and swelling
- Scarring
- Changes in sensation, nipple shape, and breastfeeding ability
- Nipple necrosis
- Asymmetry and shape changes
- Complications requiring additional surgery
- Reactions to medicines
- Breathing problems
- Bleeding, blood clots, or infection
Suitable Candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery
This surgery may be a good choice for those who experience physical pain because of very large breasts. A good candidate for breast reduction surgery is:
- who have physical pain and mental distress from large breasts
- who experience back, neck, and shoulder pain
- who have skin inflammation under the breasts
- Those who are in good health
- who have a positive attitude and clear realistic goals for the procedure
- who are willing to follow the surgeon’s instructions before and after the surgery
- Those who understand the potential risks and benefits of breast reduction surgery
Before Surgery
People should consider the following factors before undergoing surgery:
- The breasts should be fully developed before the surgery.
- Breast and nipple piercings can cause infections.
- Breast reduction surgery may delay some diagnostic procedures such as mammograms or breast ultrasounds
- Breast reduction can limit the ability to breastfeed due to changes in breast tissue and milk ducts
- Weight gain, loss, or changes during pregnancy can impact the results of previous breast reduction surgery.
- Quitting smoking will be advised to reduce risk of complications
- The doctor will evaluate the patient’s medical history, discuss the desired breast size, and explain the potential risks to the patient
- The images and measurement of the patient’s breast will be taken
- A mammogram or breast exam can be performed before the surgery
During Surgery
It should be performed in licensed and accredited hospitals with a registered plastic surgeon. During the procedure, the surgeon will make incisions around the nipple and sometimes beneath the breast to remove extra skin, fat, and glandular tissue. The method used to reduce the size of your breasts can vary; it can be done either through incisions (vertical or inverted-T) or liposuction to remove excess fat from the breasts. The nipple will remain attached to its blood and nerve supply, but in some cases, a ‘free nipple graft’ may be needed. The surgeon will try to adjust the size of the areola smaller. The incision scars will fade over time, but they won’t completely go away. On the day of surgery, the patient will be advised to follow proper instructions and wear loose clothing.
After Surgery
After surgery, bandages and tubes will be used to remove the surplus blood or fluid. Painkillers and antibiotics may be given to reduce discomfort and lessen infection risk. Temporary breast discomfort, swelling, and bruising are common during recovery. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon are necessary at regular period to remove sutures and bandages. Scars, swelling, and bruising will heal over time. Patients will be advised to wear a surgical bra and limit physical activities for 4-6 weeks post-surgery for proper healing and less pressure on the surgical site. Patients should follow any additional self-care instructions and schedule a follow-up visit with their surgeon.
Breast Reduction Surgery Cost in India
Breast reduction surgery cost in India depends on factors such as the surgeon’s experience, hospital charges, and the complexity of the procedure. The cost can range from $900 to $4000 and depends on factors such as pre-operative diagnostics, post-operative care, and any additional required treatment. The cost of breast reduction surgery in India may include anesthesia fees, hospital charges, post-surgical garments, and a surgeon’s fee. The surgery takes about 4 hours and is performed under general anesthesia.
Breast Reduction Surgery Success Rate in India
Breast reduction is a popular procedure among people with large breasts due to its high success rate. Success rates in India range from 54% to 84%. Despite potential risks, breast reduction surgery provides relief and improves quality of life. Many people experience improvements in their symptoms after undergoing breast reduction surgery.
Top Hospitals for Breast Reduction Surgery in India
Max Super Specialty Hospital – New Delhi
Fortis Memorial Research Institute – Gurugram
Gorzeous Looks Cosmetic & Hair Transplant Centre -New Delhi
Medanta – The Medicity – Gurugram
Artemis Hospital – Gurgaon
Medspa Hospital – New Delhi
Fortis Memorial Research Institute – Gurugram
Indraprastha Apollo Hospital – Delhi
SB Aesthetics – Gurgaon
Top Breast Reduction Surgeons in India
Dr. Rakesh Kumar Khazanchi – Medanta – The Medicity, Gurgaon
Dr. Adhishwar Sharma – Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
Dr. Shilpi Bhadani – SB Aesthetics, Gurgaon
Dr. Rajesh Kumar Watts – Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Delhi
Dr. Charu Sharma – Gorzeous Looks Cosmetic & HairTransplant Centre
Dr. Anil Kumar Behl – Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
Dr. Sunil Choudhary – Max Super Specialty Hospital, Delhi
Dr. Rashmi Taneja – Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
Dr. Ajaya Kashyap – Medspa Hospital, New Delhi
Dr. Vipul Nanda – Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon