“Mammary ptosis” is defined as the sagging of the gland and the distension of the breast skin. Consequentially, the nipple takes a very low position usually associated with a constant “emptiness” of the upper part of the breast. Breast ptosis most often results from a significant loss of weight, after a pregnancy with breast-feeding.
In certain cases of minimal mammary ptosis, a correction can be performed by a peri-areolar incision exclusively.
In cases where the ptosis is associated with insufficient volume alone, correction can be achieved with the use of breast implants.
A breast reduction can be performed from the end of the puberty. A further pregnancy and breast-feeding is always possible, however, we advise to wait at least six months after the surgery. The risk of cancer is not increased.
We use resorbable sutures, however, if non-absorbable sutures were employed, they will be removed 10 days after the surgery. It is advisable to consider a convalescence sick leave from 8 to 15 days.
A usual preoperative assessment is carried out in accordance with the federal regulations. The anaesthetist will see you at latest 48 hours prior the operation.
In addition to the usual preoperative examinations, some imagery exams may be prescribed (mammography, echography). Drugs containing aspirin have to be stopped at least 10 days before the surgery.
The final result can only be judged one year after the surgery: the shape of the breast is then generally harmonious and symmetrical or close to symmetrical. However, most patients are very satisfied during the immediate postoperative period.
The immediate post-operative pain is treated with appropriated medication. Swelling (oedema) and bruises (blue) are normally observed and resolved spontaneously. The first dressing is changed 24 or 48 hours after the surgery. The second dressing is lighter and easy to handle. The patient is discharged from the clinic 24 to 48 hours after the surgery, and is re-examined in consultation two to three days later. The maturation of the scars can be different from person to person, that is the reason why they are the subject of an attentive monitoring. Frequently, that the scars get a pink tint during the second and third post-operative months; they then gradually flatten and get paler over the duration of one year. They can however remain widened, or remain active for longer than a year. Scars do not disappear completely, but their aspect improves over time.
Asymmetries of volume, height, size or orientation can be seen. In all the cases, a secondary surgical correction can be made, after at least a year or two.
Complications related to the anaesthesia, will be discussed during the consultation with the anaesthetist.
Regarding the surgical procedure: choosing a qualified Plastic Surgeon decreases to the minimum these risks, however, it does not remove them completely. Fortunately, the true complications following a breast reduction are rare. In practise, the vast majority of the cases are without any problem and the patients are fully satisfied with their result.
Rare but possible complications: Infection requiring an antibiotic treatment and sometimes a surgical drainage. Haematoma formation requiring a drainage (evacuation). Decrease of the sensitivity, in particular in the nipple area, however the normal sensitivity generally reappears within 6 to 18 months. Troubles of the wound healing process seen in heavy smokers and diabetic patients. Hypertrophic scars and even keloides, in patients with unfavourable wound healing process.
To resume, there is no need to overestimate the risks, but it is important to become aware that any surgical operation, even apparently simple, always comprises a small share of risks.
Having a qualified surgeon ensures that these complications can be identified and treated effectively.
I advise to preserve this document, to read again it after the consultation. Perhaps this reading will bring out new questions, that our team will be ready to answer effectively.
