“I regret my breast reduction” is never what a plastic surgeon wants to hear. And for the most part, patients who undergo breast reduction surgery enjoy the relief from physical discomfort and their often improved appearance.
However, some may experience feelings of regret. There are a variety of reasons for breast reduction.
Reason 1: Changes in Aesthetic Preferences
Sometimes, patients realize after their surgery that the scar or breast size they were left with does not suit their aesthetic preferences. What initially felt like an ideal breast size may no longer align with their current body image goals. This can lead to dissatisfaction, even though the surgery technically achieved its intended result.
Reason 2: Expectations vs. Reality
Unrealistic expectations can also contribute to a patient who feels regret post surgery. Some patients may have expected a specific shape or size, but the final result may differ slightly due to factors like skin elasticity or body structure. It’s crucial to understand that no surgery can guarantee “perfect” results. If you regret breast reduction surgery, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the surgeon did anything wrong.
Reason 3: Physical Discomfort After Surgery
Although breast reduction usually alleviates physical discomfort, some patients may experience unexpected new discomfort after surgery. For example, numbness, tightness, or lingering pain in the breast area can lead to dissatisfaction, especially if it takes time for these sensations to subside.
Reason 4: Scarring or Healing Issues
Scar tissue is an inevitable part of breast reduction surgery, and while surgeons aim to minimize it, some patients may feel that their scars are more visible or noticeable than anticipated.
Reason 5: Changes in Lifestyle
Life changes such as weight gain, weight loss, or pregnancy can alter a patient’s satisfaction with their results. After surgery, patients might find that their body changes in ways that make their new breast size less suitable for their lifestyle or preferences, leading to regret.
What to Do if You’re Considering a Breast Reduction Revision
The decision to pursue a breast reduction revision requires careful thought. There are a few steps patients can take to ensure they are making the right decision.
1. Ensure you have seen your final results
Breast reduction results take time to fully settle. For example, with most breast reduction before and after photos, the after photos are taken at least a year out. This is because swelling can obscure the final appearance for several months. It’s important to wait at least six months to a year before considering revision surgery to allow your body to totally heal.
2. Get in touch with your surgeon or consider a new surgeon
If you’re unhappy with your breast reduction results, it’s essential to communicate with your surgeon. If your surgeon met your initial goals, but you now regret the size or appearance, you may choose to stay with the same surgeon. However, if you believe your surgeon made an error or did not meet your expectations, you can either explain to them what went wrong and seek a revision (you may get a discount) or find a new plastic surgeon.
4. Take your time researching a new surgeon if this is your decision
If you decide to go with a new surgeon for your revision, it’s important to take your time and do thorough research. Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast reduction revision surgery.
5. Understand that all surgeries come with risks
Every surgical procedure carries risks, including breast reduction revision surgery. It’s important to be aware of potential complications, such as infection, poor wound healing, asymmetry, or unsatisfactory results. Being fully informed will help you set realistic expectations and make the best decision for your health and well-being.
![will i regret my breast reduction]( "will i regret my breast reduction")
FAQ: Breast Reduction Revision Surgery
FAQ: Breast Reduction Revision SurgeryWill I regret my breast reduction?
We certainly hope not. With the breast reduction surgery cost, the toll on your body, and the permanent results, it’s important that you take your time researching the right surgeon before surgery so that you can feel confident about your decision, even years into the future.
How much is a breast reduction revision?
The cost of breast reduction revision varies depending on factors such as surgeon experience, location, and the complexity of the revision. On average, it can be more expensive than the original surgery due to the corrective nature of the procedure, scar tissue, and other challenges.
Can a breast reduction revision surgery use the same incisions as your primary breast reduction surgery?
In many cases, a breast reduction revision can utilize the same incisions as the original surgery. This approach minimizes additional scarring. However, it depends on the specific changes being made and the condition of the tissue, so your surgeon will determine the best incision strategy. Take a look at some breast reduction surgery scars.
How long is the recovery after a breast reduction revision?
Recovery from breast reduction revision surgery is typically similar to the recovery from the initial surgery. Patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort for a few weeks, with most returning to light activities after one to two weeks. Full healing and final results may take several months.
Book a Consultation with Us
Considering breast reduction surgery? Large breasts can cause serious neck pain, shoulder pain, headaches, rashes, and other problems. Breast reduction patients often have to go to physical therapy or take medications to alleviate this discomfort.
Fortunately, there’s a breast surgery that can get rid of excess breast tissue and give the patient smaller breasts that suit them better. A breast reduction procedure is the ideal solution to excessively large breasts that are causing problems.
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Matthew Schulman performs breast reduction surgery in addition to breast augmentation, breast lift, and other plastic surgery procedures at his NYC practice. Please contact our office today to book your first consultation appointment with Dr. Schulman.
References
The post Help, I Regret My Breast Reduction! What Can I Do? first appeared on Matthew Schulman, M.D..