Too Much of a Good Thing

By: Katharine Griffiths
Created on 28th February 2011

Mention cosmetic breast surgery and the assumption is that you’re talking about going bigger. But what if you’re too big already? Top female surgeon Dr Chiraz Bouzguenda, a specialist in breast surgery, explains her approach to breast reduction

For many of us it is difficult to imagine ever wanting to go smaller in the bust department, but for some women a DD+ cup size is more of a nightmare than a dream come true.

Women with overly large breasts can suffer from a range of debilitating physical symptoms such as back, neck and shoulder pain, restriction in physical exercise, infections and rashes under the breasts, as well as psychosocial symptoms, such as embarrassment and difficulty in finding clothes to fit.

For these women, breast reduction surgery is a potential solution to their problems.

The popular choice

The most common method of reducing the breasts involves three incisions. One is made around the areola, another runs vertically from the bottom edge of the areola to the crease underneath the breast, and the third is horizontal beneath the breast, following the natural curve of the breast crease.

After the excess breast tissue, fat and skin has been removed, the nipple and areola are shifted to a higher position. The areola, which has usually been stretched in large breasts, is also reduced in size. Skin that was formerly located above the nipple is brought down and together to reshape the breast. This method results in what is known as an ‘inverted T’ scar.

The ‘lollipop’ scar

Another popular method of breast reduction, the vertical mammoplasty, dispenses with the horizontal scar along the breast crease. The resultant scars run only around the areola and then vertically down from the areola to the breast crease. However, this method is only suitable for moderately large breasts.

Rest and recuperation

After surgery, you will be wrapped in an elastic bandage. A small tube may be placed in each breast to drain off blood and fluids for the first day or two. The bandages will be removed a day or two after surgery, although you will need to continue wearing a firm sports bra for six weeks. For the first two weeks post-operatively, you should not lift anything heavier than a kettle.

Realistic expectations

The best way to find out if breast reduction surgery is right for you is to book a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. Breast reduction surgery will make your breasts smaller and firmer, and you may find greater enjoyment in playing sports and engaging in other physical activity. Done properly, breast reduction produces fantastic results and significantly improves quality of life.

CS&AG