Even though everyone wants to accept that personality matters more than looks, they are all swooned over by the latter. Subconsciously, we are all sizing up a person based on their aesthetic appearance before digging deeper into their personality. This deep-rooted reality has driven both men and women to crave an hourglass figure in the latter. Cosmetic surgeries have made it possible, with their safe and effective methods, to redesign your face, nose, chest, and the entire physical body. The desire for owning perfect-sized breasts has catapulted the demand for breast augmentation surgery to about 300,000 a year in the US alone. In 2021, over 1.6 million breast lift procedures were performed worldwide.  

Alongside breast augmentation, breast reduction surgeries are gaining quite traction in the global market. The estimated annual figure is 90,000. More often, these two surgeries are performed in tandem, as per the patients’ requirements.  

Breast Augmentation Vs. Breast Reduction: The Key Surgical Differences 

Breast augmentation, alternatively termed augmentation mammoplasty, refers to a surgical procedure aimed at enhancing breast size. This procedure entails the insertion of breast implants beneath breast tissue or chest muscles. For many women, breast augmentation serves to boost self-confidence, while for others, it forms an integral aspect of breast reconstruction for diverse medical conditions. 

Contrarily, Breast reduction surgery, medically termed reduction mammaplasty, involves the removal of excess fat, breast tissue, and skin from the breasts. 

Both procedures are conducted to provide an ideal breast contour, as desired by most women. But not just aesthetic looks push women to opt for either of the surgery. Some medical conditions, chronic illness, or possibly a change of mind can also be a compelling reason for the patients choosing breast reduction.  

Breast Augmentation and Reduction – Risks and Benefits 

Breast augmentation surgery offers the opportunity to increase breast size, leading to a noticeable enhancement in your appearance. Whether you desire larger breasts or wish to correct asymmetry, breast augmentation presents a fitting solution for achieving your desired size and shape. 

Looking for the best breast augmentation surgery in Hyderabad or around your city can truly help because some risks are always included in such procedures when the surgeon is not explicitly trained in such cosmetic treatments.  

The following points are a few such examples of potential risks experienced by some patients: 

• Allergic Reactions: In case of implant rupture, swelling and allergic reactions may occur in your breast. 

• Scars and Marks: Over time, as you age, you may see multiple scars surrounding the breast region due to your breast augmentation procedure. 
• Displacement: Engaging in certain physical activities can cause displacement of your breast implants, leading to changes in their position. 

Contrarily, breast reduction surgery offers the possibility to relieve the discomforting physical effects caused by excessively large breasts while also delivering transformative aesthetic improvements that can significantly enhance your overall quality of life. But like its other counterpart, this surgery also involves a certain number of risks, such as: 

• Difficulty Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding can be challenging post-reduction surgery, but not impossible. Delay surgery if unsure about having more children. 
• Reduce the Amount of Milk Produced: Milk production might be affected. Discuss with your surgeon if planning future children. 
• Prominent Scars Post-Surgery: Surgical scars from breast reduction fade with proper care, becoming faint over time. Size and visibility vary based on techniques used. 

Some of the challenges are easily handled with proper care, treatment and time. But a few others, like allergic reactions, require immediate medical attention.  

Breast Augmentation and Reduction – Understanding the Procedure 

Both the procedures entail a few essential steps, such as: 

Step 1: Anesthesia 
Step 2: The Incision 
Step 3: Correction 

• Breast Augmentation – Insertion and Placement of Breast Implants
• Breast Reduction – Removing Tissue and Repositioning 

Step 4: Closing the Incisions 
Step 5: Results and Recovery 

Post-Surgery Care and Recovery Time 

Any surgical procedure has its own sweet time of recovery, with proper care and medication. For instance, in the case of breast reduction surgery in Hyderabad or somewhere around your cities, your surgeon will supply a tailored compression garment to maintain your breasts’ new shape, ensuring optimal results. Wear it 24/7 for at least three weeks during the healing process. The same suit is handed over to patients undergoing alternate surgery.  

Here’s a typical example of a recovery timeline for breast reduction surgery: 

First 2 Days: 

• Experience swelling, bruising, and soreness. 
• Able to resume usual activities, including gentle walks. 

3 Days Post Surgery: 

• If a job involves seated work with minimal movement, you can return to work. 

1 Week Post Surgery: 

• Allowed to drive but must wear compression garment consistently. 
• Garment should be worn around the clock. 

One Month Post Surgery: 

• Bruising, pain, and swelling mostly subsided. 
• Patients are typically in good spirits. 

6 to 8 Weeks Post Surgery: 

• Clearance to resume all physical activities. 

Over the Next Three Months: 

• Breasts will settle into their final position. 

Recovery timeline for the breast augmentation procedure goes like this: 

1 Day After Surgery: 

• Implants appear elevated and compressed. 
• Breasts feel very firm and tight. 
• Nipples may be positioned low, possibly pointing downward. 
• Minimal side or bottom rounding of breasts. 
• Breastbone swelling is noticeable. 
• Mild to moderate bruising may be present. 
• Non-support athletic bra required 24/7, except during showers. 
• Pain medication as prescribed to ease surgical pain. 

1 Week After Breast Augmentation: 

• Implants remain elevated and compressed, with slight projection. 
• Breast tissue remains firm and tight. 
• Nipples still appear low. 
• Slight increase in bottom rounding, no side rounding. 
• Mild or no swelling on the breastbone. 
• Mild or no bruising. 
• Able to sleep flat on back but avoid side sleeping. 
• Possible itching or burning sensation, which is normal. 
• Walking, including brisk walks, can commence a few days after surgery.  
• Monitor for increased pain or swelling. 

One Month Post-Surgery: 

• Implants remain elevated but are gradually less compressed. 
• Breasts are firm but less tight. 
• Scar tissue formation around the capsule is nearly complete. 
• Nipples may still be low but are starting to elevate. 
• Bottom rounding becomes more pronounced, with the top still more rounded. 
• Minimal side rounding, if any. 
• Bruising typically resolves. 
• Increased shooting pains and itching may be noticed. 
• Possible asymmetry in breast dropping, which is normal. 
• Implants may begin to drop, timing varies. 
• Evaluation for bra management begins. 
• Additional physical activities like biking, walking, and lower body workouts are permitted, avoiding bouncing. Stop if discomfort or increased swelling occurs. 

6 to 8 Weeks Post Surgery: 

• Enhanced breast size appears more natural and aesthetically pleasing. 
• Breasts are beginning to soften but may still feel firm on the sides. 
• Nipples are gradually rising towards the center of the breasts, showing noticeable improvement. 
• Side breast rounding is starting to develop, albeit subtly. 
• Shooting pains may persist but are less frequent. 
• Muscle aches may occur as chest and shoulder muscles are reengaged. 
• Some breast asymmetries may persist, which is normal. 
• Bra management reevaluation occurs at each appointment with Dr. Cruise. 
• Side sleeping is permissible but avoid sleeping on the stomach. 
• Comfortable wear of bathing suits or strapless dresses is likely. 
• Incisions should be fully closed before submerging in water, typically after a minimum of one week. 

6 Months After Breast Augmentation: 

• Breasts reach optimal position. 
• Noticeably softer to the touch. 
• Side and bottom rounding show defined contours. 
• Consider using Scarless scar gel on incisions, if required. 
• Transition to underwire bras for most patients. 
• Fitted support athletic bra is still recommended during high-impact activities. 

Breast Reduction and Augmentation Costs Near You 

Breast reduction and augmentation surgery costs in India vary due to numerous factors, making it impossible to provide a fixed price. Considering the following variables is crucial when making your decision: 

• Surgeon’s expertise and proficiency 
• Facility equipped with state-of-the-art tools. 
• Utilization of cutting-edge techniques 

An approximate figure for breast reduction surgery cost in Hyderabad and other cities would be INR Rs. 80,000/- – INR Rs. 2,50,000/-. Contrarily, breast augmentation surgery costs between INR Rs. 1,00,000/- to INR Rs. 3,50,000/-, depending upon the type of augmentation you are expecting. 

When Should a Woman go for a Breast Augmentation and Reduction 

As stated before, specific conditions other than aesthetic needs can lead female patients to opt for breast lift and augmentation surgeries and breast reduction procedures as well. 

Conditions for Breast Augmentation Procedures 

• Enhancing self-confidence 
• Correcting asymmetry 
• Restoring breast volume 
• Reconstructive purposes 
• Personal choice 

Conditions for Breast Reduction Procedures: 

• Macromastia, or excessively large breasts 
• Chronic back, neck, or shoulder pain 
• Skin irritation and rashes  
• Posture problems. 
• Difficulty with physical activities 
• Emotional distress  

The Final Takeaway 

Breast augmentation surgery and its counterpart are essential beauty cosmetic treatments being increasingly sought after by many young women and elders. The influence of social media and film stars and the age-old belief of an ideal size are vital drivers; however, some reasons are rooted more deeply in our health and mental acceptance. There’s nothing wrong with chasing the perfect breast size and shape, and various centers are offering the same treatment near your city. However, choosing expertise and experience over cost-effectiveness is essential to experience healthier, safer, and more satisfying outcomes. 

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