Why opt for a breast reduction?
Breast reduction, or reduction breast reduction, is an operation to reduce the volume of the breasts. For many women, breasts that are too large lead to back pain, tension in the neck and skin irritation. Beyond the physical discomfort, there is also a psychological dimension: a disproportionate breast can affect self-esteem and self-confidence, especially since breast ptosis is common in cases of breast enlargement (breasts sagging).
Breast reduction is one of the most performed operations by Dr. Struk, a plastic surgeon in Paris, specializing in breast surgery.
Breast reduction techniques
Among the different techniques, the most commonly used method is by far the one with inverted T-scars. It is this technique that allows the breast to be better reduced while guaranteeing a beautiful breast shape after the procedure. Scars are strategically placed on the breasts to minimize their visibility.
What is the inverted T technique?
It consists of removing excess mammary gland and skin from the breasts using 3 scars:
Periareolar scar: around the areola, at the junction between light and dark skin.
Vertical scar: from the bottom of the areola to the submammary fold (submammary fold).
Horizontal scar: along the submammary fold, forming an inverted T.
Should we be afraid of these scars?
Scars are often a source of anxiety for patients considering breast reduction. It is important to understand that although scars are inevitable, their appearance improves significantly over time. Scars are always very well accepted by patients.
The evolution of scars
Scars typically evolve in three phases:
Initial phase (0-3 months): The scars are red, thick and sometimes swollen.
Intermediate phase (3-12 months): The inflammation gradually decreases, the scars begin to fade.
Late phase (1-2 years): The scars flatten and lighten, becoming more discreet.
Tips for a beautiful scar
To ensure optimal healing and minimize visible marks, here are some practical tips:
Daily shower : Wash the scars with water and neutral pH soap the day after the operation to avoid infections.
Nursing: For the first two weeks, daily care by a nurse is recommended.
Compression bra: Wearing it for 6 weeks reduces the strain on the scars.
Healing creams: From the third week, apply healing creams and massage the scars regularly.
Sunscreen: Protect scars from the sun for at least two years to avoid pigmentation (scars that become dark).
Respect the post-operative instructions
Strict compliance with post-operative instructions is essential to avoid complications of healing:
Quitting smoking: Tobacco harms blood circulation and slows down healing. Quitting smoking before and after the procedure improves the results.
Maintaining a stable weight: Avoid weight fluctuations to preserve the shape and size of the breasts after the procedure.
Rest: Avoid sports and heavy lifting for at least one month to prevent scars from opening.
Importance of follow-up consultations
Follow-up consultations allow the progress of healing to be monitored, any potential complications to be diagnosed quickly and the necessary measures to be taken. These appointments are essential to ensure an optimal result.
Laser and breast reduction scars
Laser treatment can be an effective option to improve the appearance of scars when their appearance is not satisfactory. However, this treatment has an additional cost and is not systematically necessary. It is intended only for patients who are presentunusually large or thick scars.
Breast reduction offers undeniable benefits in terms of physical comfort and self-confidence. While scars are a legitimate concern, they fade over time and usually become very subtle. However, you will have to be patient because the scars evolve for at least a year. Thus, breast reduction can truly transform your life and offer you a new perspective at the cost of discreet scars.
