What is it?

Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with your body. It aims to alleviate physical discomfort such as back, neck, and shoulder pain, skin irritation, and difficulty with exercise.

What happens during surgery?
The surgery is performed under general anaesthetic and typically takes 2-3 hours. The most common technique involves a keyhole-shaped incision around the areola and down to the breast crease. Excess tissue is removed, and the breast is reshaped and lifted. The nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher, more youthful position. Dissolvable stitches are used to close the incisions.

What is the recovery like?

• Hospital Stay: Usually requires a 1-2 night stay in hospital.
• Initial Recovery (2-3 weeks): You will wear a supportive bra day and night. Mr Ibrahim does not use drains as a standard. Expect bruising, swelling, and some discomfort, which is controlled with medication. You will need plenty of rest.
• Returning to Work: Plan for 2-3 weeks off for sedentary jobs; 4-6 weeks if your job is physically demanding.
• Exercise: Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for at least 6 weeks. Walking is encouraged. You may gradually resume gentle exercise after 4 weeks.
• Final Results: Swelling takes several months to fully resolve. Scars will be red and raised initially but will gradually soften and fade over 1-2 years. Most patients report immediate relief from physical symptoms.

What are the potential risks?
Risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, changes in nipple sensation, asymmetry, and difficulty breastfeeding in the future. There is also a small risk of wound healing problems, particularly where the incisions meet under the breast.