Breast Reduction

A Breast reduction is a cosmetic surgery procedure in which fat, tissue, and skin are removed for the purpose of diminishing the size of the breasts. This procedure can relieve the pysical strain caused by overly large breasts. It can also help women feel less self-conscious about their figure and enjoy a more youthful-looking bust line. If you suffer pain and discomfort as a result of large breasts, breast reduction surgery may be for you.

Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery can improve your life by alleviating pain in the back, neck, and shoulders. It can allow you to wear a wider variety of clothing styles and help you feel less self-conscious about your breast size. If you are considering reduction mammaplasty, learn more about the steps to take before surgery, what the breast reduction procedure will entail, and what to expect after breast reduction surgery.

Candidates

Women with very large breasts that cause physical discomfort are excellent candidates for breast reduction surgery. Most surgeons recommend that patients wait until their breasts have fully developed before undergoing surgery. Male breast reduction surgery may be performed on men who suffer from a condition known as gynecomastia, an abnormal enlargement of the breasts. Learn more about whether you are a good candidate for breast reduction surgery or gynecomastia treatment.

Cost and Financing

Unlike many other cosmetic procedures, reduction mammaplasty is often covered by insurance. Contact your insurance provider to determine the extent of your coverage. There are three different costs associated with a breast reduction: the doctor’s fees, the facility fee, and the anesthesia fee. Learn more about breast reduction cost and any available financing options for your breast reduction procedure.

Risks, Complications, and Benefits

Although reduction mammaplasty is generally a safe procedure, patients should be aware of the potential problems associated with the surgery. Breast reduction risks and complications include the chance of infection, adverse reaction to anesthesia, and uneven nipple height. However, most patients find that the potential benefits of breast reduction- decreased physical pain, a wider variety of clothing options, decreased self-conciousness and boosted confidence - outweigh the risks associated with the surgery. Learn more about possible breast reduction complications, breast reduction risks, and the benefits of breast reduction surgery.

Recovery

Most women will be able to return to work and other normal activities about two weeks after undergoing reduction mammaplasty. They will need to refrain from exercise and other strenuous activities for at least four weeks following the procedure. To ensure that the breasts are healing properly, breast reduction patients should attend follow-up appointments for several months after surgery. Most patients report that their scars begin fading after about six months, while pain and heightened sensitivity begin to subside within a month. If you are considering reduction mammaplasty, learn more about the breast reduction recovery process.

Results

After breast reduction surgery, your breasts will be smaller and lighter, resulting in less physical pain. Most patients are extremely pleased with the results of surgery. Reduction mammaplasty boasts some of the most satisfied patients among all plastic surgery procedures. Learn more about the reduction mammaplasty procedure and breast reduction results.

Visit the DocShop gallery to view more breast reduction before and after photos.

Photo credit: Mountcastle Plastic Surgery

Reduction Mammaplasty: Surgical Techniques

There are several types of surgical incisions that can be utilized in breast reduction surgery. The three most common methods of breast reduction surgery are: standard incision breast reduction surgery, in which incisions are made horizontally under the breast in the crease and extend  vertically up to and around the nipple, creating an anchor pattern; the vertical incision breast reduction surgery,in which incisions extend around the areola and vertially down to the breast crease, making what is sometimes called a "lollipop" pattern; and “scarless” breast reduction surgery, in which liposuction alone is used to reduce the size of the breasts. If you are interested in learning more about how you can benefit from breast reduction surgery, your doctor can help you determine which method will give you the best results.

Breast Reduction FAQ

Many patients have questions about breast reduction surgery. It is common to have concerns before undergoing any operation. Weighing the risks, understanding the benefits, and considering the cost are all important aspects of the decision-making process. Get answers to your questions by visiting DocShop’s breast reduction frequently asked questions page.

Choosing a Breast Reduction Surgeon

Choosing a doctor who is right for you is the first and most important step in undergoing a successful reduction mammaplasty. When selecting a plastic surgeon, make sure you consider the doctor’s background and expertise. Membership in surgical associations and certification with the American Board of Plastic Surgery also speak to your surgeon’s credibility. Having some knowledge about your surgeon's credentials will help you feel more at-ease when discussing your hopes and expectations for this surgery, which is key to achieving long-term satisfaction through a breast reduction. Learn more about choosing a breast reduction surgeon to meet your needs.

Find Plastic Surgeons in Your Area

DocShop provides patients considering breast reduction with a listing of surgeons that perform reduction mammaplasty locally. Find a cosmetic surgeon in your area today to learn more about breast reduction surgery.