1 Orchard Boulevard #10-08 Camden Medical Centre, Singapore 248649 | 3 Mount Elizabeth, #08-05 Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre, Singapore 228510
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"Breast Reduction Surgery in Singapore

Breast enlargement can be caused by many reasons, including pregnancy, cancer, and developmental causes. A thorough assessment should be carried out to exclude any sinister causes. True enlargement (hypertrophy) of the breast is usually developmental, related to hormonal stimulation, and has a familial preponderance.

Enlarged breasts can lead to multiple problems such as neck and back pain, bra strap grooving, arthritis, infections in the breast folds, interference with exercise, and social embarrassment. Breast reduction is usually done for individuals whose enlarged breasts are causing such issues.

How are breast reductions performed?

The techniques and sequences used for mastopexy (breast lift) are also used in breast reduction. The skin incisions allow access to the breast parenchyma (breast tissue) and enable resection of excess skin. The difference lies in the amount of parenchyma removed. In a mastopexy, parenchyma is usually preserved to maintain volume, while in a breast reduction, parenchyma is removed to enable the patient to achieve her desired cup and breast size.

Post-procedurally, recovery and care are similar to mastopexy.
Breast Reduction-2

Breast Lift VS Breast Reduction

A breast lift is aimed primarily at removing excess sagging breast skin. In contrast, a breast reduction is performed primarily to remove excess breast tissue. The process for mastopexies and breast reductions are similar otherwise.

What to Expect Before, During, & After Breast Reduction Surgery

Before

Every breast reduction surgery is preceded by a consultation, where patients are assessed for their fitness and suitability for this procedure. The doctor will aim toalso understand the patient’s desired outcome (e.g. target bra cup size) and communicate whether this is feasible and advisable. 

It is also important for the patient to follow the surgeon's pre-operative instructions from weeks prior to the day of surgery.

During

The surgery, performed under general anesthesia, typically takes a few hours, depending on the size of the reduction. During the procedure, excess breast tissue, fat, and skin is removed, the breast is usually reshaped, and the nipple and areola may be repositioned. 

After

Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and heightened sensitivity in their breasts post-operation, and are usually recommended to wear a compression bra. The surgeon may also prescribe medication to lower pain and risk of infection. There will also be a list of post-operative instructions, such as dos and don’ts for certain diets, engaging in physical activities, and even attire.

Understanding the Risks of Breast Reduction Surgery

Like any other type of major surgery, breast reduction procedures come with the risks of bleeding, infection, and adverse reaction to the anaesthesia. Other complications and side effects include:

  • Temporary bruising
  • Scarring
  • Numbness or changes in sensation in the nipples and areolae
  • Breastfeeding difficulties
  • Asymmetry of the breasts

The Polaris Approach

At Polaris Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, we combine modern aesthetic procedures with complementary treatments to attain realistic, natural-looking and long-lasting outcomes. Our consultant plastic surgeons and medical directors exercise a “patient-first” approach that focuses on embracing individual uniqueness with highly customised treatment plans, and ensure a smooth and rapid recovery for patients by harnessing advanced plastic surgery techniques and technology.

FAQs

Can I get my breast reduction covered by insurance?

In Singapore, the criteria whereby insurance can reimburse for breast reduction is dependent on the weight of breast tissue removed. This would be more than 250grams per breast or more than 500grams in total. Severity of symptoms can be taken into consideration as well but usually on a case-by-case basis.

I am a male but notice that my breasts are enlarged. What can I do about this?

Abnormal enlargement of male breasts should be investigated, most importantly to exclude sinister causes such as male breast cancer (1% of all breast cancer). Usually, male breast enlargement is due to gynecomastia, which is a very treatable condition (see Gynecomastia).


References
1. Hall-Findlay EJ. Pedicles in vertical breast reduction and mastopexy. Clin Plast Surg. 2002 Jul;29(3):379-91.
 
2. Doshier LJ, Eagan SL, Shock LA, Henry SL, Colbert SH, Puckett CL. The Subtleties of Success in Simultaneous Augmentation-Mastopexy. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2016 Sep;138(3):585–92.

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