ANEASTHESIA – Breast Reduction surgery is performed under general anaesthesia.
INCISION – The desired look, size and shape will determine how much breast tissue is removed and how much excess tissue remains. The surgeon will make an incision in the breast using one of three surgical techniques:
- DONUT INCISION – An incision made from under the middle of the breast up to the areola, and around the full circumference of the areola. This is the least invasive breast reduction surgery, but only suitable if there is a small amount of tissue to be removed.
- LOLLIPOP INCISION – A vertical incision from under the middle of the breast up to the areola, and around the areola. This is the most commonly used technique, suitable where there is a small amount of tissue to remove.
- ANCHOR INCISION – Made up of three incisions. One incision is made around the edge of the areola. The next is a vertical incision reaching down from the areola to where the edge of the breasts meets the chest. The third one is a curving horizontal incision made in the crease.
REDUCTION PROCEDURE – Whichever technique is used, surgery involves first lifting the nipple into a higher position, keeping all the tissue attached. Breast tissue and fat is then removed to decrease breast size, excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin re-draped to create a pert and natural shape to the reduced breast.
WOUND CLOSURE – Dissolvable stitches will be used to close the incision and drainage tubes, to help reduce swelling and bruising, may be placed under each arm.
WOUND DRESSING – The breasts will be covered with a special wound dressing (as per the surgeon’s preference) and will be wrapped with supportive bandages.
PROCEDURE TIME – Approximately 2 to 3 hours.
