Breast reduction surgery is a form of cosmetic surgery to remove excess breast skin and fat, while reshaping the breasts. Breast reduction can help women with large or ill-shaped breasts relieve physical problems caused by their breasts’ weight, size or shape.
Are you looking for Breast Reduction in Nigeria? Do you want to get rid of heavy breasts? Are your breasts getting in the way of daily activities or even spoiling your look and confidence?
Breast reduction surgery is a procedure for reducing the size of the breast by removing fat tissue, glandular tissue and skin.
Having the desired and appropriate breast size can enhance a woman’s confidence and self-esteem. Many women choose to undergo breast augmentation surgery to make their breasts larger. This is most frequently a cosmetic consideration. Breast reduction, on the other hand, is more frequently undertaken to relieve physical problems associated with disproportionately large breasts. Problems arising from having musculature not strong enough or a frame too small to support the weight of very large breasts may include:
- Brassiere strap pain
- Pain in the back or chronic spinal misalignment
- An inability to perform certain physical activities comfortably or at all
The breast reduction procedure is typically performed using one of three incisions.
Liposuction may also be used to remove fatty tissue, along with one of the surgical procedures. In some instances, liposuction can be performed as a single procedure. This would be the case when removal of fatty tissue is what is primarily required, and the skin has excellent elasticity to spring back. Liposuction alone is not recommended for women with pendulous breasts.
Types of Incisions
The types of incisions are:
- Anchor Lift or T Incision – The incision starts above the nipple, comes around the areola on both sides to the crease below the breast, and then continues outward within the crease. Typically, the nipple is repositioned farther up on the breast. When the incision is closed, it resembles an anchor or T.
- Vertical Incision –The incision goes around the areola and down to the crease in a single vertical line; its shape resembles a keyhole. The nipple is repositioned farther up the breast, and the incision is closed.
- Pedicle Methods – There are four types of pedicle methods. Should Dr. Okoro decide one of these is best for your case, he will discuss the specifics of the procedure with you.
What Is The Recovery From Breast Reduction Like?
- You will go home wearing a supportive surgical bra over gauze and steri-strips.
- Most stitches will be absorbed; those that are not will be removed in 7 days.
- Your breasts will feel tender for a couple of weeks, but most women do not require a pain medication.
- Women who work in an office typically return to work within one to two weeks.
Will I Need Someone To Stay With Me After Surgery?
You should have someone drive you home and stay with you for 24 – 48 hours.
When Can I Start Exercising Again?
Patients can usually resume light exercise within three to four weeks after surgery.
Breast Reduction Surgery in Nigeria
Breast reduction surgery in Nigeria, or reduction mammoplasty, is an operation usually performed to alleviate symptoms associated with overly large and heavy breasts. Nigerian women requiring breast reduction usually present with complaints of neck, shoulder and back pain, bra strap indentations, recurrent skin rashes, posture problems, inability to exercise, and unwanted attention. To treat these problems, Dr. Okoro and his group of American Board Certified Plastic Surgeons will remove breast tissue and skin, making the breasts smaller, lighter, and more firm. We aim to provide the same level of care available in the United States, but closer to home.
For patients with large, sagging breasts, the breast reduction in Nigeria provides a tremendous improvement in shape and nipple position, much like a breast lift. For patients with genuine complaints, breast reduction surgery is one of the most satisfying operations in all of plastic surgery.
Am I a good candidate for breast reduction surgery?
You may be if:
- You have pendulous breasts (often signifies more glandular tissue than fat)
- You are bothered by the feeling that your breasts are too large
- Your breasts limit your physical activity
- You experience back, neck and shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breasts
- You have regular indentations from bra straps due to heavy breasts
- You have skin irritation under your breast
- Your breasts hang low and have stretched skin
- Your nipples rest below the breast crease when your breasts are unsupported
Initial Consultation
To determine if you are a good candidate for breast reduction surgery in Abuja Nigeria, Dr. Okoro and his associates will review your health history and perform an examination during your consultation. At the initial visit, we will ask you to describe in detail what you would like improved. Be specific about what you would like done. Prior to your procedure, Dr Okoro will examine your breasts. He will talk to you about the size you want your breasts to be and will show you where he intends to position the nipple and areola.
You are at increased risk for complications if you have diabetes, poor circulation, heart, lung or liver disease, smoke, have a family history of blood clots, take certain medications, etc. You’ll want to discuss your medical history thoroughly with your physician before you choose to undergo surgery.
Because the size, shape, and amount of tissue in the breast will change after reduction, most women are advised to have a preoperative mammogram and a postoperative mammogram six months to a year after surgery for comparison.
Steps before surgery
Prior to surgery, you may be asked to:
- Get lab testing or a medical evaluation
- Take certain medications or adjust your current medications
- Get a baseline mammogram before surgery and another one after surgery to help detect any future changes in your breast tissue
- Stop smoking well in advance of surgery
- Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding
How is the procedure performed
Breast reduction is a surgical procedure that reduces, lifts and reshapes the breasts. It can also reduce the size of the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple). Many Nigerian women seek breast reduction to alleviate painful discomfort and other conditions (back pain, shoulder pressure, rashes, skin tags, etc.) as well as to improve the appearance of their breasts. The procedure is usually performed at a hospital under general anesthesia. The operation takes about 3-4 hours, and you may require an overnight stay or be allowed to go home the day of surgery.
During the consultation, Dr. Okoro and his associates will understand your goals and desires, and he will review available techniques and scar patterns. Dr Okoro prefers to minimize scar by using the latest technique such as vertical scar without the horizontal scar. Although the common scar which encircle the areola, extend vertically downward, and continue horizontally in the crease under the breast may be used for some patients. Dr. Okoro will make every effort to minimize the scar burden. Dr Okoro makes an incision which is normally in a keyhole pattern: a circle around the areola and two incisions down the breast which will be closed to form one line. Fat and extra tissue are removed. Dr Okoro then repositions the nipple and areola to a higher position and removes excess skin from beneath the breast.
In some cases, the nipple and areola are transferred as a skin graft to their new position. This is only done when absolutely necessary, since nipple sensation is almost completely lost. Dr Okoro rarely uses drains. When he does, they are placed on the sides of the breasts to drain blood and excess fluid. The drains are removed in 1-2 days. The incisions are then sutured closed and taped. We instruct all breast reduction patients to wear sports bras and to avoid strenuous upper body activity for several weeks.
Patients may drive and return to work once they discontinue narcotic pain medicine. The results of breast reduction surgery will be long-lasting. Your new breast size should help relieve you from the pain and physical limitations experienced prior to breast reduction. Your better proportioned figure will likely enhance your self image and boost your self-confidence. However, over time your breasts can change due to aging, weight fluctuations, hormonal factors and gravity.
Surgery location
Your breast reduction procedure will be performed in Abuja, Nigeria. The exact location will be determined after your consultation with Dr. Okoro and his associates. He usually performs breast reduction surgery as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia by certified & qualified anesthesia doctor. Dr. Okoro performs surgery in the hospital to ensure your safety.
If you prefer, your surgery can also be performed in the United States. However, you will be responsible for the additional cost of transportation and housing in the USA.
How much will breast reduction surgery cost?
Your satisfaction involves more than a fee. When choosing a plastic surgeon for breast reduction in Nigeria, remember that the surgeon’s experience, results, safety, and your comfort with him are just as important as the final cost of the surgery. Dr Okoro’ s concerns are your safety, excellent outcome, and satisfaction. Your fees are discussed with you after your consultation with Dr. Okoro. You will be provided an estimate for your procedure. All fees are paid prior to your procedure.
Breast reduction is a type of surgery which is also called reduction mammoplasty. Fat, tissue, and skin are removed from the breasts to make them look smaller. The size of the areola (dark skin around the nipple) can be reduced. And the nipple may also be moved higher on the breast. This post explains the procedure and what to expect.
Preparing for breast reduction surgery
Prepare for the surgery as you have been directed. In addition:
• Tell your doctor about any recent health conditions and all medicines you take which includes herbs and other supplements. It also includes any blood thinners, such as warfarin, clopidogrel, or routine aspirin. You may need to limit taking some or all of them before surgery.
• Follow any instruction you are given for not eating or drinking before surgery.
• Do not smoke before surgery. Your doctor may delay your surgery if you are smoking. Smoking lowers the blood flow in the skin and nipples, and increases the risk of wound healing complications.
The day of breast reduction surgery
The surgery lasts for about 3 to 6 hours. You may be allowed to go home the same day or you may stay overnight.
Before the breast reduction surgery begins
• An IV line is put into a vein in your arm or hand and this line delivers fluids and medicines.
• You will be given medicine to make you free from pain during surgery. This can be general anesthesia, which puts you in a state like deep sleep. (A tube can be inserted into your throat to enable you breathe.) Or you may be sedated, which makes you relaxed and sleepy. If you have sedation, local anesthesia will be injected to the surgery site to numb it. The anesthesiologist will brief you about your options.
During the breast reduction surgery
• The doctor makes one or more incisions in your breast. Incisions are mostly made around the areola, but extend to under your breast as well. You and your doctor will have discussed incision sites before the surgery.
• The doctor removes fat, tissue, and skin from the breast. In some situations, fat is removed using liposuction. This entails inserting a cannula (hollow tube) into the breast. A special vacuum drains fat through the cannula.
• If needed, the areola and nipple are removed and placed higher on the breast. To decrease the size of the areola, excess skin is removed. The areola is then stitched (sutured) into place.
• The procedure is also repeated on the second breast.
• The incisions are closed with sutures (stitches), surgical glue, or both. A tube (drain) may be positioned into the incisions before they are closed. This drains excess fluid as the wound start to heal.
After the breast reduction surgery
You will be taken to a resting room to wake up from the anesthesia. You may feel sleepy and nauseated and if a breathing tube was used, your throat may become sore at first. You will be given medication to reduce the pain. When you’re set, you will be able to go home with an adult family member or friend or you may be moved to a room to stay overnight.
Recovering at home
Once home, follow any directives you are given. Your doctor will tell you when you can return to your daily routine. During your recovery:
• Take any prescribed medicines exactly as instructed.
• Wear the special bra or the bandage you were given before discharge as directed by your doctor.
• Care for your incisions and the dressing (bandage) over them as instructed by your doctor.
• Follow your doctor’s guidelines for showering. Don’t swim, take a bath or do other activities that may cause the incisions to be covered with water until your doctor says it’s okay.
• When you shower, gently wash your incision areas. Then pat the incisions dry. Don’t apply lotions, oils, or creams to the incisions until after they are completely healed.
• Don’t raise your arms higher than breast level for 10 days. And don’t lift, push, or pull things heavier than 10 pounds for 7 days at least.
• Don’t drive until you are no longer taking prescription pain medicine and your doctor says it’s OK. When riding in a car, carefully place the seatbelt so that it doesn’t compress your breasts.
• Know that breast swelling may last for 3 to 5 weeks. If advised by your doctor, use a cold pack wrapped in a thin towel to ease discomfort and control swelling. It’s vital not to leave the cold pack on for too long, or your skin can be damaged. Put the pack over your bandages for not more than 20 minutes at a time. Then, leave it for at least twenty minutes. Repeat this as often as required during waking hours until swelling starts to get better. Don’t fall asleep with the cold pack on. If you’re not sure how to safely use the cold pack, ask your doctor.
When to call your healthcare provider
Ensure you have a contact number for your doctor. After you get home, call your doctor right away if you have any of the following:
• Extreme chest pain or trouble breathing (call emergency)
• A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your doctor
• Bleeding or drainage from the special bra or bandage
• Symptoms of infection at an incision region, such as more redness or swelling, warmth, worsening pain, or foul-smelling drainage
• Pain that is not calmed by medicine or pain that gets worse
• Much more soreness, swelling, or bruising on one breast than the other
• Breast that is warm to the touch
Follow-up
You will have follow-up visits so your doctor can see how well you’re healing. If required, stitches or drains will be removed at one of these visits. If you have any questions or worries about your recovery, let your doctor know.
Risks and complications of breast reduction surgery
• Bleeding or infection
• Blood clots
• Excessive internal or external scarring
• Breasts that are asymmetric (not the same shape and/or size)
• Breasts that are too firm
• Changes in breast or nipple sensation (temporary or permanent)
• Damage to nerves, muscles, or blood vessels
• Persistent pain
• Death of fat cells deep in the skin
• Inability to breastfeed
• Not happy with the cosmetic result
• Risks of anesthesia. The anesthesiologist will discuss these with you.
BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY IN NIGERIA : 5 THINGS EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW
It’s often said that too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. When it comes to breasts, this couldn’t be more true.
Some women in Nigeria are so top-heavy that their breasts feel embarrassing or awkward (or both), and it can affect everything from their self-esteem to their overall quality of life. For these ladies, breast reduction surgery can, quite literally, be a weight off their chests. But not all procedures–or doctors–are made equal.
Here are the top five things you should know if you’re trying to decide if breast reduction surgery is right for you.
1. If your doctor suggests anything other than the lollipop technique, get a second opinion.
While there is more than one way to make an incision during a breast reduction procedure, the lollipop technique is the one that provides the most comfortable recovery and the least amount of scarring. The procedure begins with an incision encircling the areola, just inside the pigmented area, so the scar will be almost invisible. A second incision is added vertically, down the lower portion of the breast.
An anchor-pattern reduction, on the other hand, is an older method that often results in a boxy breast, rather than one that is a natural, tear-shape. Furthermore, it adds a curved horizontal scar that is quite noticeable. At SoulPlace Surgery, we believe the lollipop technique is the best and only method that should be used.
2. Insurance may cover you, but you will need to do some legwork.
Breast reduction is one of the few cosmetic surgeries that is also considered reconstructive and, therefore, eligible for insurance coverage. However, obtaining that coverage can be a complicated process.
Insurance providers will typically ask for documentation of physical symptoms–like back and neck pain–in order to prove that the surgery is medically necessary. They also use a complicated formula to determine whether your breasts are large enough to be problematic, which is based on your current measurements and the amount of tissue your doctor plans to remove.
Your best bet is to talk to your insurance provider before your consultation. That way, if you’re potentially eligible, you can determine the steps required to obtain coverage. This often means trying a treatment plan for pain and other symptoms before resorting to surgery.
3. The benefits of breast reduction go way beyond a smaller cup size.
Besides walking out of the office with a more proportional physique and better breast symmetry, a reduction can reduce back and neck pain and eliminate rashes under the breast line and grooving in the shoulders. Your clothes will likely fit better and most patients report increased confidence and the ability to do activities that were previously too difficult or uncomfortable.
And there’s more! A breast reduction can improve numbness in the hands and arms due to nerve compression, poor posture and breathing problems resulting from pressure on the chest wall. Some women have even found relief from migraines, as it’s believed that massive breasts can put undue strain on the nerves and muscles in the neck, causing the excruciating headaches.
4. Layered incisions help reduce scarring.
At SoulPlace Surgery, we use layered suturing techniques that reduce tension on the incision. That means that each incision is closed in five precise layers without using reactive sutures that can cause scarring. This method is critical to ensuring a smooth healing process. An external tape is applied over the sutures, and a surgical bra is sometimes put in place to give breasts the necessary support during recovery.
Dr. Gana also puts his patients on a 12-week silicone scar gel program to encourage healthy healing and further minimize scarring. The scars will fade over time, although it may take up to a year. It’s essential to protect the area from direct sun exposure until this happens, as UV rays can adversely affect healing and cause the scar to discolor. Fortunately, scars can usually be concealed by a bra or a bathing suit during the healing process.
5. Recovery is often more comfortable than patients expect.
In fact, you’ll return home the same day as your procedure and most likely be back to your daily routine within a week or less. Often, patients experience instant relief from pain in the back, neck or shoulders, while also finding they can breathe easier without the extra weight on their chest.
At SoulPlace Surgery, our breast reduction patients are hands down our happiest patients. We think it’s because Dr. Gana tailors his breast reduction procedures to each patient to ensure their curves make them feel comfortable in their own skin. Dr. Gana sees fewer patients each day so that he can take the time necessary to intimately understand your concerns and aesthetic goals. After your procedure, he will see you personally at regular intervals to monitor your recovery. During that time, he’ll advise you when you can return to specific activities based on your progress.