Cosmetic breast surgery is a surgical procedure to change the size or shape of the breasts.

Breast revision surgery can be done in an outpatient surgical facility or in a hospital. General anesthesia is often used, although local anesthesia may be used to numb the area around the breasts.

For a breast reduction, some of the breast tissue is removed and the nipples may be relocated higher on the breasts for cosmetic reasons. In general, the operation lasts 3 to 6 hours and is done under general anesthesia.

During a breast lift, incisions are made along the natural creases in the breast and around the dark skin surrounding the nipple (areola). A keyhole-shaped incision above the areola is also made to define the new location for the nipple. Skin is removed from the lower section of the breast. The areola, nipple, and underlying breast tissue are moved up to a higher position. The nipple is moved and incisions are closed with sutures. The procedure can last 3 to 5 hours, depending on the extent of the surgery.

If you are considering mammoplasty, consult a plastic surgeon and discuss your expectations about looking and feeling better, keeping in mind that the desired result is improvement, not perfection. Emotional stability is an important factor. Breast surgery can renew your self-confidence and improve your appearance, but the rest is up to you.

Mammograms or breast x-rays may be required before the surgery. The plastic surgeon will perform a routine breast exam.

Mastopexy is typically performed to lift sagging, loose breasts. The size of the areola, the dark pink skin surrounding the nipple, can also be reduced.

Breast reduction may be recommended for:

• Enlarged breast (macromastia)
• Cystic breast infections (polycystic mastitis)
• Pain from weight of large breasts that is not relieved by a supporting bra
  • Back pain, neck pain, or shoulder pain
  • Headache
  • Breast pain
  • Loss of sensation in the breasts
  • Sleeping problem resulting from large breasts
  • Poor posture caused by large breasts
  • Arm or finger numbness caused by large breasts
• Pigmented bra-strap groove
• Striae (scar-like lines) on the breasts

Breast reduction is not recommended if these conditions exist:

• Breast cancer
• Cellulitis
• Hardened breast skin

In addition to the general risks of surgery and anesthesia, there are risks of large scars with prolonged healing time, uneven position of the nipples, sensory loss, and inability to nurse a baby after surgery. The emotional risks may include feeling that the breasts look imperfect, or the desired reactions of others are not adequate.