General Information

DEFINITION--Removal of excess tissue and overlying skin from the female breasts. Usually this surgery also includes reconstruction of breast shape.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Breasts.

REASONS FOR SURGERY

• Reduction of overly large breasts to improve appearance.
• Relief of back pain from weight of overly large breasts.
• Reconstruction of a breast to match a surgical change made in the other breast.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Obesity.
• Smoking.
• Excess alcohol consumption.
• Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleep inducers; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.
• Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens; marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--Plastic and reconstructive surgeon.

WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood and urine studies; mammogram (See Glossary).
• After surgery: Blood studies.

ANESTHESIA--General anesthesia by injection and inhalation with an airway tube placed in the windpipe.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• The breast is marked where the skin will be removed and where the nipple will be after tissue is removed.
• The skin between the new nipple location and the natural nipple location is incised and removed. The nipple stays attached to underlying tissue.
• Another incision is made below the nipple. Excess tissue is removed through this incision.
• Drains are left in place to prevent fluid or blood from accumulating under the sutures.
• The skin is closed with fine sutures, which usually can be removed about 7 to 10 days after surgery.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Excessive bleeding.
• Surgical-wound infection.
• Discoloration of healing skin edges.
• Development of small, tumor-like cysts (seromas) or collections of blood and serum in the breast tissue as it heals.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--4 to 5 days.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 4 weeks for recovery from surgery.

Postoperative Care

GENERAL MEASURES

• A small ridge may form along the incision. The ridges will heal and recede gradually without treatment.
• Use ice packs to reduce swelling and to relieve incisional pain.
• Bathe and shower as usual. You may wash the incision gently with mild unscented soap.

> You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

> To help recovery and aid your well--

being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.

• Avoid vigorous exercise for 6 weeks after surgery. > Resume driving 1 month after returning home.

DIET---No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

> Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.