Breast reduction is a common procedure with a high satisfaction rate. There are many reasons why a patient would choose to undergo a breast reduction. The more common reasons tend to be neck, back, and shoulder pain from the weight of the breasts pulling down on these anatomic structures. Other common reasons are difficulty exercising and rashes in the breast crease. In younger women later teens and early 20s there can be issues related to self-esteem and body image. A breast reduction surgery can be an excellent solution to help improve a lot of these problems.
For 4-6 weeks prior to surgery, we have patients eat a diet high in protein. We aim for 1-2 grams of protein per kg of bodyweight. The protein can be from any source: chicken, beef, fish, beans, eggs, etc. Protein drinks and protein shakes are acceptable too, however food should be the primary source of protein with additional supplementation in the form of powers, drinks, etc. The protein ingested helps provide all the building blocks for wound healing and helps to prevent complications.. We also recommend that patients undergo 5 sessions of hyperbaric oxygen therapy to facilitate healing. Two sessions of hyperbaric oxygen therapy are attended before surgery and three after surgery. The hyperbaric oxygen helps provide oxygen to the tissue that are healing and provides a positive pressure around the tissues to prevent edema.
