Plastic Surgery
Breast Reduction
A breast reduction or reduction mammoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that reduces the size of the breasts by removing access fat, tissue and skin.
Best Candidates
The best candidates for breast reduction surgery are women who have very large breasts and suffer from back, neck and shoulder pain. Also, women who have difficulty exercising or breathing can benefit from a breast reduction. Even women who have uneven breasts, have trouble fitting into clothes or are just unhappy with the size of their breasts will benefit from breast reduction.
Prior to Surgery
The most important step with any cosmetic surgery is the one on one consultation with your doctor. This is the time to discuss expectations, goals or any concerns that you might have. Together you and your surgeon can make decisions based on your individual needs. For breast reduction surgery, your doctor may require that you have a mammogram prior to the procedure.
The Surgery
Breast reduction is typically outpatient surgery and general anesthesia is used. The surgery takes approximately two to three hours. An incision is made from the nipple down to the bottom of the breast and along the fold underneath the breast. This is called a “T” or “anchor” incision and is the most common used in this surgery. Excess fat, tissue and skin are removed, and the nipple is positioned higher giving the breast a more symmetrical appearance.
Benefits
Breast reduction surgery gives your breasts a more youthful appearance and alleviates any back, neck or shoulder pain that overly large breasts were causing. Exercise will be more comfortable; clothing will fit better, and your self-confidence will be at an all-time high.
After Surgery
You should expect some bruising, swelling and tenderness in the area for several weeks after surgery. If you experience numbness around the areola, do not worry, this is common, and sensitivity usually returns as the swelling goes down. Healing takes time, so you should not plan to return to work for several days after surgery. You will be instructed to wear a surgical bra over gauze dressing for a few days. The stiches are dissolvable; however you will be advised to continue to wear a sports bra for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. Your doctor will give you specific instructions and go over all the dos and don’ts before you return home.