Breast reduction surgery for cosmetic and cancer patients

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, can be performed for both cosmetic reasons and as part of treatment for cancer patients. The procedure involves the removal of excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to achieve a more proportionate breast size, alleviate physical discomfort, or to reconstruct the breast after cancer treatment.

Why do women have breast reduction for cosmetic reasons?

Many women seek breast reduction surgery to address discomfort or dissatisfaction caused by large, heavy breasts. Common reasons include:

• Physical discomfort: Large breasts can cause chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain, as well as skin irritation and posture problems.
• Lifestyle limitations: Some women find it difficult to engage in physical activities, such as exercise or sports, due to the weight and size of their breasts.
• Aesthetic concerns: Breast reduction can also address aesthetic issues like asymmetry, sagging, or dissatisfaction with breast shape and size.

The procedure typically involves reshaping the breast to achieve a more proportionate size, while also lifting and repositioning the nipple. Recovery time varies, but many patients experience significant relief from physical symptoms shortly after surgery.

What’s involved in breast reduction for cancer patients?

Breast reduction surgery can also be part of the treatment for women with breast cancer. In cases where lumpectomies or mastectomies are required, breast reduction techniques may be used to reshape or reconstruct the breast. This approach is known as oncoplastic breast surgery, combining cancer treatment with cosmetic surgery principles to restore breast appearance.

For cancer patients, breast reduction surgery serves several purposes:

• Symmetry after cancer treatment: If only one breast is affected by cancer, reduction surgery on the unaffected breast can be performed to achieve symmetry.
• Physical and emotional recovery: Breast reconstruction using reduction techniques can help patients regain confidence and a sense of normalcy after cancer treatment.

What are the key considerations for both types of patients?

Regardless of whether breast reduction surgery is sought for cosmetic reasons or as part of cancer treatment, several factors need to be considered:

• Health status: The patient’s overall health, smoking status and ability to heal are important factors when planning the surgery.
• Scarring: All breast reduction surgeries will leave some scarring, though modern techniques aim to minimise visible scars.
• Recovery: Recovery time can vary from person to person, but typically includes several weeks of avoiding strenuous activity and wearing support garments.

Breast reduction can significantly improve quality of life by relieving physical symptoms, improving aesthetic outcomes, or aiding in cancer recovery. Each case should be discussed with a specialised surgeon to determine the best approach based on individual needs and health conditions.