Breast Reduction Surgery Unveiled: A Comprehensive Guide to a New You

What is Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure designed to remove excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin. It aims to achieve a breast size in proportion with the body while alleviating the discomfort associated with overly large breasts.

What Can't Breast Reduction Surgery Do?

While breast reduction surgery can significantly improve comfort and aesthetics for many individuals, it has its limitations:

• It cannot address sagging breasts caused by aging or weight fluctuations.

• It does not necessarily achieve an ideal shape; rather, it focuses on reducing size.

• It cannot prevent future changes in breast size or shape due to pregnancy or weight gain.

Who is a Good Candidate for a Breast Reduction?

Good candidates for breast reduction surgery include:

• Individuals experiencing physical discomfort from large breasts, such as neck, shoulder, or back pain.

• Non-smokers who are in good general health.

• Those with realistic expectations about the potential results.

• Individuals whose breasts limit their physical activity or cause emotional distress.

A vertical or "lollipop" breast reduction is for those who require a moderate reduction in breast size and have more noticeable sagging are often good candidates for a vertical breast or "lollipop" reduction.
An inverted-T or “anchor” breast reduction allows for the maximum degree of tissue removal and reshaping, and cosmetic surgeons will typically use this approach if a patient needs a more significant breast size reduction and/or has considerable sagging or asymmetry to correct.

Consulting with a qualified cosmetic plastic surgeon will allow you to better evaluate your situation and whether a breast reduction is the appropriate procedure for you, and if so, which technique is most suitable. In some cases, liposuction of the breasts is an appropriate solution alone, without requiring surgical intervention.

How Much Does a Breast Reduction Cost in Vietnam?

In Vietnam, the cost of breast reduction surgery is most influenced by the surgeon's reputation and expertise, the extent of the procedure, and the hospital or clinic where the procedure is undertake. Usually, the initial consultations and the follow-up recovery appointments are complimentary.

Average: USD 3300
Range: USD 2900 - USD 3700

How Should I Prepare for a Breast Reduction Procedure?

When preparing for your breast reduction it is important to make sure you are ready and in the best condition before your surgery. Some general guidelines include:

• Consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, size, and shape. The surgeon will take measurements, evaluate your health, and may take preoperative photos, and perform a mammogram.

• Provide a detailed medical history, including current medications, any previous surgeries or medical conditions.

• Follow all pre-operative instructions provided by your surgeon, such as avoiding certain medications (especially medications like aspirin and ibuprofen, and certain supplements - which can increase bleeding), and fasting before the procedure.

• Stop smoking & alcohol consumption at least 2 weeks before your surgery. Smoking can impair blood flow and delay healing, and alcohol can increase the risk of bleeding and interfere with anesthesia.

• Arrange transportation to and from the surgical facility on the day of the procedure. If you are coming to Vietnam, you can organise transport and other services with us: Hotels|Transport|Visas.

• Prepare surgery recovery kits and other resources and assistance during the initial recovery period including food, water, comfortable clothing, compression bandages & garments, wound dressings, and saline washes. Some of these things may be provided by the clinic or hospital - be sure to ask your surgeon.

• Plan time off from any work, commitments or other activities that should be avoided during the initial recovery period.

• Prepare a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins to promote tissue repair and overall healing. Hydration also plays a key role in surgery preparation and recovery, so ensure you maintain adequate fluid intake.

It is important to rest and allow your body to recover - closely follow these guidelines, as well as the instructions from your surgeon, to minimize any potential risks or complications.

Here at Vietnam Surgeons we also offer further information on how to prepare for any surgery in Vietnam, and how to ensure your have the most comfortable recovery.

What are the Steps of a Breast Reduction Procedure?

Typically, a breast reduction procedure involves the following key steps:

1. Marking: The surgeon outlines the areas to be removed and reshaped, on the breasts.

2. Anesthesia: The procedure is normally performed under general anesthesia. Throughout the procedure, the patient’s vital signs are closely monitored by the anesthesiologist or anesthetist.

3. Incisions: Incisions are made depending on the type of reduction
   Vertical or Lollipop (2 incisions): one is around the edge of the areola, and a second incision running vertically from the bottom of the areola to the inframammary fold, or the crease beneath the breast.
   Inverted-T or Anchor (3 incisions): one around the edge of the areola, one vertically from the areola to the breast crease, and one made along the crease underneath the breast.

4. Reduction: excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are removed.

5. Repositioning: Reshaping the remaining breast tissue and repositioning of the nipple, if necessary.

6. Closure: Closing the incisions with sutures, skin adhesives, or surgical tape.

What Should I Expect During My Breast Reduction Recovery?

Recovery from breast reduction surgery requires care and patience:

• Expect swelling, bruising, and discomfort initially, manageable with prescribed medications.

• Wear a support bra to help reduce swelling and support your breasts.

• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for at least six weeks.

• Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.

What Results Can I Expect After Breast Reduction?

After a breast reduction surgery, patients can usually expect some or all of the following results:

• Smaller, more proportionate breast size.

• Relief from physical discomfort previously caused by large breasts.

• Improved ability to participate in physical activities.

• Enhanced self-image and confidence.

While a vertical breast reduction leaves some scarring on the breast, it is limited to the area below the nipple and therefore can be easily hidden beneath a bra or bikini top. The scars resulting from an inverted-T or anchor breast reduction are similar to those from a vertical reduction, with one additional, thin scar running along the crease beneath the breast. With proper care, scars typically fade considerably over the first year or so after surgery and are easily concealed by clothing, even a bikini top.

Risks & Side Effects of Breast Reduction Surgery

Like any major surgery, breast reduction carries risks:

• Infection at the incision sites that may delay the healing process.

• Scarring that may be permanent.

• Changes in nipple or breast sensation that may be temporary or permanent.

• Reactions to the anesthesia, or other materials used during the procedure.

• Difficulty breastfeeding in the future.

• Asymmetry of the breasts.

• Dissatisfaction with the results

It is very important to manage your expectations and to understand the risks and side effects that come with a breast reduction procedure. Discussing your concerns with your surgeon will help as well as allow you to get reassurance from the surgeon based on their experience and techniques for managing and avoiding the potential risks.

Breast Reduction Surgery Combinations

To optimize results, some individuals combine breast reduction with other procedures:

1. Liposuction: to remove excess fat and to contour the surrounding area, liposuction can also remove fat from the abdomen, flanks (love handles), back, and neck.
2. Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): Often chosen for overall body contouring, excess skin and fat are removed, and the abdominal muscles are tightened to create a flatter and more toned appearance.
3. Face Procedures: While less common, some individuals may choose to combine pubic lift with facial procedures like facelift, neck lift, or eyelid surgery for a complete makeover.

It is important to discuss with a qualified surgeon whether additional procedures are right for you and your desired body goals. Remember, some clinics and surgeons offer package discounts when combining multiple procedures.

Non-Surgical Options

For those preferring non-surgical methods, options include:

• Wearing supportive, specially designed bras.

• Lifestyle modifications such as weight loss and exercise.

• Physical therapy to strengthen back and shoulder muscles.

• Non-surgical reduction creams, though efficacy varies.

So, Should You Get a Breast Reduction?

Deciding to undergo breast reduction is a personal decision. It involves considering your physical discomfort, aesthetic goals, and overall mental wellbeing. Consulting with a qualified cosmetic plastic surgeon can provide you with tailored advice and help determine if the procedure aligns with your objectives.