Breast Reduction
Why are Breast Reductions Needed?
Breast reduction surgery is necessary because many women have symptoms related to excessively large breasts: back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, headaches and rashes of the skin. Breast reduction surgery, also known as Reduction Mammoplasty, is used to alleviate these symptoms and achieve a breast size more proportionate to your body size. It can also help women become more comfortable, more active, and generally, more healthy. Depending on your expectations after surgery and the occurrence of ongoing symptoms, this can sometimes be covered by your health insurance or it is always available as a cosmetic procedure as well.
Breast Reduction Procedure
Breast reduction surgery is an outpatient procedure, meaning you will be able to go home the same day as your surgery. This procedure usually takes two to three hours, although it may take longer depending on the extent of work required. General anesthesia is used for this procedure.
Breast reduction begins with an incision made around the areola, down the breast, and in the crease under the breast. Next, excess skin is removed, and breast tissue is reduced and reshaped. Finally, the incisions are closed with stitches, and a surgical bra is placed over the bandages.
Breast Reduction Recovery
Breast reduction recovery time is different for every woman, but most women feel well enough to return to work within a week or two. You should avoid strenuous activity and lifting anything heavy for at least four to six weeks. Scars will be visible after surgery, but they will fade over time.
Ideal Patients
Breast reduction surgery is ideal for women who are dissatisfied with the size and shape of their breasts, and/or who experience symptoms like back pain, neck pain, and shoulder pain as a result of their large breasts. It is important to have realistic expectations about the results of your surgery. Breast reduction can improve your appearance and your quality of life, but it cannot achieve perfection.
If you are interested in having breast reduction surgery, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons to talk about your surgical goals.