A breast reduction is a cosmetic procedure where excess skin, fat and tissue are removed from the breast.
Why Are Breast Reductions Performed?
There are several reasons women elect to have a breast reduction. Here are just a few:
- The breasts are ptotic (very low-hanging)
- The breast skin has become stretched and marked
- The breasts are large, causing neck, shoulder or back pain
- The breasts inhibit regular physical activity because of their size
- A woman has given birth and breastfed, and now the breasts are larger and longer
- The breasts are causing poor posture
- A woman has difficulty fitting into bras and clothing
Any number of these reasons may be a basis for a breast reduction, but if you have overly large, low-hanging breasts that are causing you to be self-conscious and uncomfortable, you may be a good candidate for breast reduction.
Other factors that make a strong candidate are overall good health, reasonable expectations regarding the results and a thorough understanding of what to expect from a breast reduction procedure.
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Breast Reduction
Procedure Information
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How is Breast Reduction Performed?
Depending on your desired results, we will modify the procedure plan accordingly. On average, however, an incision is made around the areola and to the crease of the breasts. Excess fat, skin and tissue are removed, and the incision is closed. The areola and nipples can often remain intact; however, if your breasts are quite low-hanging, they may have to be re-grafted in a higher position on the breast.
Bear in mind, if you want smaller and perkier breasts, a breast lift may be required in conjunction with the reduction to achieve desired height.
What are the Risks Associated with Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction operations are common and safe, but as with any surgery, there are risks. A few of these include:
- Scarring
- Uneven size or shape of the breasts
- Difficulty breastfeeding (for this reason, it is recommended that you postpone breast reduction surgery until your family is complete)
- Loss of sensation in the nipples and areolae
- Complications during surgery
- Infection during recovery
- To minimize these risks, be sure to educate yourself and schedule a consultation with us.
Tips for Healing after Breast Reduction Surgery
You can expect some mild pain, swelling, and possible bruising during your initial period of healing. Use cold compresses, ice, and the prescribed pain medication from your surgeon to counteract these unpleasant, but temporary, side effects.
You may be required to sleep upright, clean dressings, wear a compression bra or other supportive garment and schedule several follow-up visits to guarantee optimal healing.
You will be tender, so be extra diligent to monitor and lessen your physical activity. No heavy lifting, bending or stretching will be allowed for a recommended period of time.
The surgery, as well as the healing process, will be individual to each patient, but the key to ensuring that both go as smoothly and successfully as possible is selecting the right surgeon. Schedule your consultation and evaluation so that you can be confident in your decision to receive a breast reduction.