How is it performed? of Breast reduction

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Before the operation:

You will be advised not to smoke or take aspirin in the weeks prior to the operation, as this will affect the healing of the wounds. You will also be advised to stop taking the oral contraceptive pill or HRT six weeks before the operation, as this may increase the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis. If you are overweight, your wounds may take longer to heal, so you will be encouraged to lose weight prior to the operation.

The operation:

The operation usually requires only one night in hospital. The aim of the operation is to create a natural shape and retain as much function and sensation in the nipples as possible.

The surgeon will use a pen to mark areas of the skin where the incisions (a surgical cuts) will be made and the operation will be carried out under general anaesthetic.

The nipple and surrounding tissue will be moved to its new position, usually while still attached to the blood supply. In cases of extremely large breasts the nipples may be removed and repositioned as a skin graft, and will develop their own blood supply.

The lower part of the breast will then be removed. In most women this process will be similar to liposuction, where a small vacuum is moved around under the skin to suck out fat cells. In some cases, fat underneath the armpit is also removed.