Key types of breast reconstructive surgery

From drooping to “moobs”: specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr Andrew Khoo takes us through four common breast issues and the aesthetic treatments that can help.

#1 Breast Hypoplasia

Commonly characterised by small, underdeveloped breasts with an unusually wide gap between them, this condition can be treated with breast augmentation. In smaller augmentations, the patient’s fat tissues can be used to enlarge the breast, eliminating the risks associated with artificial implants. Done as a day surgery under intravenous sedation or general anaesthesia, a Lipokit (single-use syringe) system is used to select the younger adipocytes (fat cells) for better results.

For droopier breasts, larger augmentations may be required. Silicone gel implants are used as they can add larger volumes, as well as give shape and structure to the breasts. This is useful for those who have breastfed their children and subsequently lost volume in their breasts.

#2 Breast Hypertrophy

Conversely, hypertrophy refers to the excessive growth of breasts, which can occur in both breasts (bilateral) or only in one (unilateral). A popular solution is reduction mammoplasty, which removes breast tissue and skin through surgery. Not only does it reduce breast size, it also lifts the breast at the same time. This is a major procedure done as an inpatient surgery with a four-night stay at the hospital.

In rare cases, liposuction can be used to reduce breast size. Done as a day surgery under intravenous sedation or general anaesthesia, this treatment is less major, thus resulting in smaller scars.

#3 Sagging breasts

A breast lift treats droopy breasts without drastically affecting size. Also known as mastopexy, this surgical procedure raises sagging breasts by changing the shape, contour and elevation through removing excess skin and reshaping the breast tissue. It can be done in combination with breast reduction or augmentation treatments.

#4 Gynecomastia

Informally known as “man boobs” or “moobs”, this common medical condition occurs when the male breast tissue increases in size. Gynecomastia surgery is usually done as a day procedure using VASER ultrasound-assisted liposuction. In addition, a separate excision of the central breast disc may be required at the same sitting. The patient will then wear a pressure garment over the area for three to four weeks after.

Aesthetic & Reconstructive Centre
3 Mount Elizabeth #13-08 Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre (Orchard)
6733 3712 | 9652 3032
andrewkhoo.com

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This article first appeared in the September 2018 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase a copy or subscribe so you never miss an issue!