MAJOR Surgery

In the face of major surgery, we should always ask ourselves, “Is there a better, safer way to accomplish the same results or better?”

Back pain is awful and chronic worsening back pain is even worse. It’s extremely common, affecting over 80% of Americans in their lifetime. At any given time, it is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Chiropractic offices are packed full of people wanting relief and better function in their backs. So it’s no wonder that some large breasted women consider breast reduction surgery to alleviate strain and compression of the back as well as the dysfunction that accompanies the pain. I have had many patients who have elected for the surgery and were very pleased with the results. They had tried weight loss and other methods to either shed some weight, or alleviate the pain without surgery or drugs, and it hadn’t worked.

Breast reduction surgery is considered a major surgery. It is also a solution for back pain for many women who qualify for the surgery. Here are some key points that highlight why it is always a good idea to do your research, weigh your risks, and try noninvasive choices like chiropractic, before having surgeons “put you under”:

Nature of the Procedure
– Invasive Surgery: Breast reduction, or reduction mammoplasty, involves making incisions to remove excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin from the breasts. This reshaping of the breast tissue and repositioning of the nipples is a complex and invasive procedure[1][4][5].
– General Anesthesia: The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, meaning the patient is put into a sleep-like state to eliminate pain and awareness during the procedure[3][5][6].

Duration and Complexity
– Surgical Time: The procedure can take anywhere from 2 to 5 hours, depending on the extent of the reduction and the specific techniques used[1][5].
– Incision Patterns: Different incision techniques, such as the “lollipop” (vertical) or “anchor” (inverted-T), are used based on the amount of tissue to be removed and the desired outcome. These techniques involve significant surgical planning and skill[2][4].

Recovery and Risks

– Research: In an article published in 2022 in the journal Gland Surgery, the participants in the study had an overall complication rate of 38% from breast reduction surgery.
– Extended Recovery Period: Recovery from breast reduction surgery can take several weeks. Patients are often advised to take at least one to two weeks off from work or school and avoid strenuous activities for up to six weeks[1][4][8].
– Postoperative Care: Patients may have drainage tubes to prevent fluid buildup and will need to manage pain and swelling with medications and supportive garments like surgical bras[5][6][8].
– Potential Complications: As with any major surgery, there are risks involved, including infection, bleeding, scarring, and changes in nipple sensation. Some patients may also experience difficulties with breastfeeding post-surgery[5][6][8]. Women over 50 have a higher risk of complications, particularly infections, likely due to hormonal changes.

Impact on Quality of Life
– Physical and Emotional Relief: Despite being a major surgery, breast reduction can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life by alleviating chronic pain in the back, neck, and shoulders, improving posture, and enhancing the ability to engage in physical activities[3][6][7].

Breast reduction surgery is a major surgical procedure due to its invasive nature, the complexity of the operation, the need for general anesthesia, and the extended recovery period required. However, for many patients, the benefits of reduced physical discomfort and improved quality of life outweigh these challenges.

Dr. Lou Jacobs has been a Chiropractor and Acupuncturist in Portland, Maine or the past 21+ years. He is board certified in perinatal and pediatric chiropractic and is a specialist in musician and performance related health and injuries. He has worked with some of the world’s most famous musicians as well as hundreds of local heroes as well. He may be reached through the front desk at (207) 774-6251. Tele-Consulting available.

Citations:
[1] https://www.webmd.com/beauty/cosmetic-procedures-breast-reduction-surgery
[2] https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/breast-reduction-surgery
[3] https://www.emoryhealthcare.org/centers-programs/aesthetic-center/Surgical-Services/breast-surgery/breast-reduction
[4] https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/breast-reduction-surgery
[5] https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/surgery/breast-reduction
[6] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11025-breast-reduction
[7] https://www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org/procedure-learning-center/breast/breast-reduction-guide/
[8] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cosmetic-procedures/cosmetic-surgery/breast-reduction-female/

 

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