Breast Reduction
- Approximate duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Anesthesia: General
- Recovery: 2 to 4 weeks
Who is this procedure suitable for?
Excessively large breasts can become a burden on a daily basis. They can cause neck, shoulder, and back pain, limit physical activity, make clothing uncomfortable, and affect posture. Some patients also experience significant psychological discomfort related to the size or asymmetry of their breasts. These problems can appear as early as puberty or develop later in life, especially after menopause. If you experience any of these discomforts, a breast reduction may be an appropriate solution for you. In the province of Quebec, a minimum of 250 g must be removed from each side for this surgery to be covered by the RAMQ.
What is breast reduction surgery?
Breast reduction is a functional surgery aimed at reducing the weight of the breasts. The goal of breast reduction is to remove excess weight from the breasts, thereby relieving neck, back and/or shoulder pain. However, patients must accept the inevitable anchor-shaped scars that come with a breast reduction. They should also be aware of the risks associated with this surgery, including poor healing, decreased nipple sensitivity, and even nipple loss. The procedure lasts between 2 and 3 hours and is performed under general anesthesia.
Is breast reduction covered by RAMQ?
This procedure is covered by the government in the province of Quebec, provided that at least 250 grams are removed from each side.
What do scars look like after a breast reduction?
Scars are similar to those of breast lifting, except that they can be wider due to greater stress on them and less attention paid to closure in a hospital setting, as opposed to a private setting.
Surgical and post-operative details
Return to work
You will be able to return to work after 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the nature of your job. It is recommended to wait about 4 weeks before resuming physical activity or sports. Complete healing can take anywhere from a few months to a year.
Possible complications
After surgery, bruising may appear, but it will gradually fade over the following weeks. Pain is usually well controlled with prescribed pain relievers.
Post-surgery advice
The first week
- Do not wear a bra with hoops for a minimum period of 2 to 3 months.
- Keep your dressings dry and clean;
- Do not force with your arms;
- Wash yourself with a sponge;
- Sleep on your back only (IMPORTANT: never sleep on your side);
- Walk for at least 5 minutes every hour of the day (avoid staying in bed all the time).
It is important to go to your post-operative appointment with Dr. Nicolaidis, even if you are doing very well.
After the first week
- Keep your dressing dry and clean;
- You may shower with your back to the shower;
- Protect your new scars from sun exposure for a total of 6 months;
- Avoid lifting heavy objects until Dr. Nicolaidis gives permission;
- Avoid bathing until Dr. Nicolaidis gives permission;
- In order to avoid blood clot complications, keep moving (walk regularly during the day).
Ready to learn more?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Nicolaidis and discover his approach to breast surgery, body contouring, and explantation.
