Bigger isn’t always better. Women who have large breasts deal with a variety of day-to-day problems. This may include mild to intense pain, strain on in the neck and lower back and an inability to play various sports. Fortunately, breast reduction surgery comes to the rescue for such women.
“Breast reduction surgery not only relieves discomfort and pain associated with large breasts but also boosts self-confidence and quality of life” says Dr. Ashutosh Misra, a leading cosmetic surgeon in New Delhi. However, the reality is that there are some myths and misconceptions doing the rounds, due to which many hesitate to opt for this procedure. Here’s a look at the truth behind 5 of the most common myths about breast reduction.
1. IT IS VERY PAINFUL AND RISKY
Breast reduction surgeries are generally very well tolerated procedures. Most people need mild pain medication for a few days post procedure. Risk factor is the same as any other surgery. The procedure is safe when performed on a medically healthy individual.
2. YOU CAN’T BREASTFEED AFTERWARDS
The reality is that most women can breastfeed this surgery. The production of milk is related to the connection between the core breast and the nipple. When the glandular tissue is removed in the breast reduction process, this connection is not harmed. In some cases, the cosmetic surgeon may advise repositioning of the nipples, which might affect milk production and the patient’s breastfeeding abilities. Make sure that you wait at least 3-6 months after breastfeeding before you go for breast reduction or breast enlargement treatment, since there is an increased risk of milk repository or blood during breastfeeding.
3. WEIGHT LOSS CAN REDUCE BREAST SIZE
Breasts are made of both fatty and glandular tissues. Weight loss programs are designed to impact the entire body. It can help in reducing the breast size a little, but will not work in the same way as breast reduction surgery does. In this type of surgery, both the fat and glandular tissues are skilfully removed to create an appealing shape, size and lift. Exercises can be the first step, however, they cannot give the same results as surgery.
4. SURGERY WILL LEAD TO LOSS OF FEELING
While some loss of feeling could potentially result from the procedure, especially around the nipples, this usually happens in very large breasts. In most cases, the sensation remains normal. In cases of very large breasts, the sensitivity is already low and to reduce such a large size, the nipple or areola might need to be completely removed and grafted back after the size is altered. This leads to loss of feeling in that area alone.
5. YOU CAN CHOOSE A CUP SIZE
It is always advisable to have realistic expectations from cosmetic surgery. The procedure of breast reduction is complex, and it is nearly impossible to fully predict the end results. It is quite possible to target a general breast size and you can see a computer preview to get an idea of how your body contour will look after the surgery. However, exact replication of digital image is an unrealistic expectation. Unlike breast enlargement treatment, breast reduction patients cannot really choose the cup size they desire.
