Breast reduction
What is it?
Breast reduction surgery is a surgical procedure in which the size of the breasts is reduced. The surgery is usually performed for medical reasons, such as relieving back, neck, or shoulder pain caused by excessive breast weight, as well as for aesthetic reasons.
During surgery, the surgeon removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin, reshaping the breast to be more proportional to the patient's body. In some cases, the surgeon may also reposition the nipple and areola to a higher position on the breast.
Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically requires a hospital stay of one day or more. Full recovery from surgery can take a few weeks, during which time the patient should avoid strenuous activity and wear a surgical bra to support the breasts.
Breast suspension
What is it?
Breast lift surgery, also known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that aims to lift and reshape the breasts. This surgery is performed by a plastic surgeon and is an option for women who want to improve the appearance of their breasts after loss of skin elasticity, significant weight loss, pregnancy, or aging.
During surgery, the surgeon removes excess skin and repositions the areola and nipple to a higher position, giving the breasts a firmer, more youthful appearance. In some cases, breast implants may also be used to increase breast volume.
It's important to emphasize that mastopexy is a major surgery and requires general anesthesia. Furthermore, there are risks associated with the surgery, such as infections, bleeding, and allergic reactions to the anesthesia. Therefore, it's crucial that the surgery be performed by a qualified plastic surgeon and in a hospital or clinic with adequate infrastructure.
How to prepare?
Before surgery, you may need to:
Undergo medical examinations and evaluations;
Have a baseline mammogram before surgery;
Quit smoking before surgery;
Adjust your current medications; avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatories, and natural medications, as they can increase bleeding.
Postoperative
Surgical glue is applied to the incisions and the use of a post-operative bra is mandatory to minimize swelling and support the breasts;
A drain may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood and fluid that may accumulate, and is usually removed after 5 to 7 days.