Hypertrophy is an umbrella medical term used to describe enlarged body tissues. Although this term can also be used to describe large breasts, gigantomastia is more commonly used to describe hypertrophy of the breasts. Gigantomastia is typically classified when each breast reaches a weight of 21 ounces. In these cases, the patient will probably experience back pain and discomfort from the extra weight. In extreme cases, each breast can weigh up to 20 pounds, causing extreme discomfort, and making wearing a bra impractical. This condition is most often associated with puberty or pregnancy during which the production of excess estrogen and progesterone hormones can cause rapid breast tissue growth. Fortunately, in these circumstances, the condition is self-correcting and there is no need for surgical intervention. Gynecomastia is used to describe large male breasts. This condition is also the result of hormonal changes in young men during puberty, and accounts for up to 65 percent of all male breast cases.
Breast reduction surgery requires a skilled surgeon who has mastered the several different incision techniques that will prevent scarring and nerve damage. Most plastic surgeons and patients prefer the pedicle technique. This involves making an anchor shaped incisions around the areola, which preserves the nipples, and allows for larger reductions. Once the excess tissue is removed, the nipple and areola are moved to a high position. The pedicle technique produces the best results because it reduces scarring, allows for a larger reduction, and preserves nipple sensitivity. Other techniques are best-suited for smaller reductions because they involve making smaller incisions. The liposuction-only breast reduction is one technique that uses a smaller incision. This technique is best for male patients because men will typically have less dense fatty breast tissue, and very little droop. Furthermore, a liposuction breast reduction requires less recovery time and very little scarring. In all cases, the procedure requires general anesthesia and a short recovery time. However, this can depend on the technique used to perform the breast reduction.
A breast reduction can be a little more complicated than an augmentation. The plastic surgeon must first determine how much fatty breast tissue can be removed, and then decide which incision technique is best for each procedure. This procedure also involves making some reconstructive efforts; after removing the excess breast tissue, the surgeon must then remove excess skin and avoid scarring. If done correctly, the results can be long-lasting, but the techniques and results will vary by patient and the surgeon's skill.