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If you are considering breast reduction surgery, you may be wondering if you are a good candidate. Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess breast tissue to reduce the size of the breasts. This procedure can be life-changing for those who experience physical discomfort or emotional distress due to large breasts. However, not everyone is a good candidate for breast reduction surgery. Take this quiz to find out if you qualify for this procedure.
Take the Quiz to Find Out if You Qualify for Breast Reduction Surgery
- Do you experience physical discomfort due to the size of your breasts?
- Do you have difficulty finding clothes that fit properly?
- Do you feel self-conscious or embarrassed about the size of your breasts?
- Have you tried non-surgical methods to reduce the size of your breasts, such as exercise or weight loss, without success?
- Are you in good overall health?
- Do you have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure?
- Are you a non-smoker or willing to quit smoking before and after the surgery?
- Are you willing to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions from your surgeon?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, you may be a good candidate for breast reduction surgery. However, the only way to know for sure is to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.
Understanding the Quiz Results
If you answered yes to questions 1, 2, 3, and 4, this indicates that you may be experiencing physical discomfort, emotional distress, and difficulty finding clothes that fit due to the size of your breasts. Breast reduction surgery can alleviate these symptoms by removing excess breast tissue and reshaping the breasts to a smaller size.
If you answered yes to questions 5, 6, 7, and 8, this indicates that you are in good overall health, have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure, and are willing to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions from your surgeon. These are important factors in determining if you are a good candidate for breast reduction surgery.
What is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery is a surgical procedure that removes excess breast tissue to reduce the size of the breasts. This procedure can also reshape and lift the breasts for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. Breast reduction surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete.
During the procedure, the surgeon will make incisions in the breast tissue and remove excess breast tissue, fat, and skin. The remaining breast tissue is then reshaped and lifted to a smaller size. The incisions are then closed with sutures, and the patient is placed in a surgical bra to support the breasts during the healing process.
Who Can Benefit from Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery can benefit individuals who experience physical discomfort or emotional distress due to the size of their breasts. Some common symptoms that may indicate a need for breast reduction surgery include:
- Chronic back, neck, or shoulder pain
- Skin irritation or rashes under the breasts
- Difficulty exercising or participating in physical activities due to the size of the breasts
- Difficulty finding clothes that fit properly
- Self-consciousness or embarrassment about the size of the breasts
It is important to note that breast reduction surgery is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as those who have a history of breast cancer or other breast-related health issues.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgical procedure, breast reduction surgery comes with some risks and considerations. Some potential risks of breast reduction surgery include:
- Scarring
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Changes in nipple sensation
- Difficulty breastfeeding
- Uneven or asymmetrical breasts
It is important to discuss these risks and considerations with your plastic surgeon before deciding to undergo breast reduction surgery.
Recovery and Aftercare
After breast reduction surgery, it is important to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions from your surgeon to ensure proper healing. Some common aftercare instructions may include:
- Wearing a surgical bra or compression garment to support the breasts during the healing process
- Avoiding strenuous activities or heavy lifting for several weeks after surgery
- Taking prescribed pain medication and antibiotics as directed by your surgeon
- Attending all follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor healing and progress
Most patients can return to work and normal activities within 2-4 weeks after breast reduction surgery, although full recovery can take several months.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Reduction Surgery
How long does breast reduction surgery take?
Breast reduction surgery typically takes 3-4 hours to complete, although this can vary depending on the individual case.
Will my insurance cover breast reduction surgery?
In some cases, insurance may cover the cost of breast reduction surgery if it is deemed medically necessary. It is important to contact your insurance provider to determine if you are eligible for coverage.
Will I be able to breastfeed after breast reduction surgery?
Breast reduction surgery can impact the ability to breastfeed, although this varies depending on the individual case. It is important to discuss this with your plastic surgeon before deciding to undergo the procedure.
How long will it take to see the final results of breast reduction surgery?
It can take several months to see the final results of breast reduction surgery, as the breasts will continue to heal and settle into their new shape.