Breast Reduction -- What You Should Expect During the Procedure

Women who feel uncomfortable with their chest size could consider having a breast augmentation or reduction. The procedures can help women who have back problems and those who have pain in their necks and shoulders due to a large bosom size. The reduction procedure will also remove extra skin on your bosom. Women who do not feel comfortable participating in athletics may wish to have the procedure so that they can lead more active lives. 

When you see a doctor for a consultation for a breast augmentation or a reduction, he or she will discuss your goals for either procedure. You will need to discuss your desired size and the appearance of your bosom. Your doctor might suggest that you have a lift in conjunction with your reduction. A lift will make your bosom look perkier. The doctor would want to know if you experience pain in your shoulders, back, and neck. Some women with a large bosom experience pain from their skin on their bosom rubbing other parts of their body. Sometimes bras hurt not because it is too small, but because the weight of the woman's bosom cause the material to hurt. Many women with a large bosom must wear wires in their bras, and they find these bras uncomfortable. Some women would rather go without a bra, but they feel as though they cannot due to the size of their bosom. He or she will also ask you questions regarding your medical history. Smokers are usually asked to stop smoking. 

You will need to reveal your current medications and the doctor might tell you that you need to stop taking aspirin before the procedure. Your doctor will give you a mammogram to see if you have any present medical issues. The examination will also help the doctor see signs of issues with your bosom down the line. If you must fast before the breast augmentation procedure, your doctor will give your advice on when you should stop eating. Following the procedure, the doctor will give you directions on how to care for yourself. When you are ready to be discharged, you will need to have someone to drive you home from the procedure. 

The doctor will inform you of what to expect after the procedure. You are likely to have bandages and dressing from the procedure. You might also be prescribed medication to help you cope with discomfort. Your doctor will tell you when you will need to return to have stitches and drains removed. Drains are used to collect the fluid that flows from the incision. You should ask your doctor questions regarding the length of time that you should remain home from work or other responsibilities. You will also need to know when you should return for your subsequent follow up visits and signs that you have a problem with your procedure. A good surgeon is transparent and would be happy to answer your questions honestly. He or she will discuss some of the risks and complications associated with the procedure and give you advice on what you should do during the healing process.