There are many reasons for breast and areola reduction, including age.
There are a number of reasons a woman might consider breast and areola reduction surgery. For some women, the procedure might be purely cosmetic. They simply don't like they way their breasts or areolas look. For others, there might be health issues involved. Whatever the underlying reason might be, before pursuing a surgical solution, a woman should first consult with a qualified physician to determine whether such a procedure can rectify the problem.
Consultation
Breast and areola reduction surgery is a four-part process. The first part of that process is the consultation. A woman should first consult with her personal physician to discuss any underlying health problems that might affect a decision to pursue surgery and to obtain references for qualified reconstructive surgeons. She should then consult with the reconstructive surgeon about the specific results she wishes to obtain. The surgeon should be able to answer all questions about the appropriate procedure, the risks involved and the potential for achieving the desired results.
Examination
Before undergoing any surgical procedure, a woman should have a thorough physical examination to ensure she is healthy enough to undergo the desired procedure. Women who smoke or have diabetes offer special challenges for surgeons and might need to achieve a pre-defined level of good health before undergoing breast and areola reduction surgery. Young women might need to consider whether they should proceed with breast reduction surgery while their breasts still might be developing.
Surgery
Most breast and areola reduction surgeries are done on an outpatient basis. There are numerous different types of procedures that are available. The procedure you undergo should be discussed with and decided upon by you and your surgeon.
Recovery
Recovery is typically a three-stage process. During the first stage, which may last up to a week, you will probably need to wear a special bra that will help to support the breasts and reduce swelling. During the second stage, which will probably last for several weeks, you will need to wear a surgical bra all the time. This will help promote healthy healing of the breasts. The final stage happens after the need for the surgical bra has passed. For the next couple of weeks, you will need to continue to refrain from sports and strenuous activity. Even though complications are always a possibility after surgery, by following all of your surgeon's post-operative instructions, you can help promote a speedy and healthy recovery.
