While Breast Reduction and Breast Augmentation with implants seem to be contradictory procedures (one to reduce size and one to enlarge), it is not always the case. In fact, the combination of these two procedures provides satisfactory results in women who wish to reduce breast size while maintaining a beautiful breast shape with upper-pole fullness1 .
Why do women opt for a breast reduction?
Women with overly large breasts may opt for breast reduction for a multitude of reasons2:
- Chronic back, neck and shoulder pain
- Shoulder grooves from bra straps
- Chronic rash or skin irritation under the breasts
- Nerve pain
- Not being able to take part in some activities
- Self-image concerns
- Trouble fitting into bras and clothing
A breast reduction procedure may alleviate some of these symptoms by reducing the size of the breasts and, consequently, their weight.
How is breast reduction performed?
The methods for breast reduction may vary, but typically surgeons make an incision around the nipple and areola and down the centre of each breast, commonly known as a T-incision3. Subsequently, surgeons meticulously remove any excess tissue, reshaping the breasts and repositioning the nipple and areola to their new position.
Post surgery, the reduced breast will typically have a thin scar around the areola and down the mid-centre, from the areola to the base of the breast.
Why opt for a breast reduction with breast implants?
It is always important to consult your surgeon about the different options, and what they recommend in order to achieve the best clinical and aesthetic results, in consideration of your specific needs and preferences.
In some cases, to achieve better aesthetic results, your surgeon may recommend adding breast implants to the procedure.
A breast reduction with implants is proved to be a safe and effective option for women with large breasts who wish to reduce their breast size while maintaining upper-pole fullness (the top portion of breast tissue above the nipple and areola).1 In this case, the implant plays an important role in providing a more harmonious shape to the new breast.
A breast reduction with implants is typically performed in a single procedure, though some patients may elect to revisit with implants after the breast reduction itself.
Alternatively, certain patients may consider breast implants later on, particularly if they experience weight loss following their breast reduction. Weight loss can lead to increased sagging, and breast implants can assist in restoring fullness and proportion, especially in cases of mild to moderate ptosis4.
Is breast reduction with implants safe?
A retrospective study involving 80 patients concluded that there was no increase in the complication rate or compromised improvement of physical symptoms when performing a breast reduction with breast implants, compared to breast reduction alone. Recovery times were comparable to those of breast reduction alone, and patient satisfaction was notably high at 93.8%1 .
All surgery comes with risks, but breast surgery with implants is a common procedure, and it is considered safe. You can read more about possible complications of breast surgery with implants here.
Your health and your choice of surgeon also play an important role.
Discuss your options with your surgeon to find the most appropriate choice for you.
Sources:
1. Swanson E. Breast Reduction versus Breast Reduction Plus Implants: A Comparative Study with Measurements and Outcomes. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2015 Jan 8;2(12):e281. doi: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000000252. PMID: 25587515; PMCID: PMC4292263.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4292263/#R1
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/breast-reduction-surgery/about/pac-20385246#:~:text=For%20those%20with%20large%20breasts,take%20part%20in%20physical%20activities.
3. https://academic.oup.com/asj/article/34/1/183/2801384
4. https://www.quinnplasticsurgery.com/blog/can-i-have-a-breast-reduction-with-implants/