Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammaplasty)

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Breast reduction, or reduction mammaplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to reduce the size of the breasts by removing fat, tissue, and skin. Patients who undergo breast reduction usually seek relief of physical pain caused by overly large breasts, rather than simple cosmetic improvement.

Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery can improve your life by alleviating pain in the back, neck, and shoulders; allowing you to wear a wider variety of clothing styles; and helping you feel less conscious about your breast size. If you are thinking about 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.

Breast Reduction 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.

Breast Reduction 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.

Breast Reduction 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- less physical pain, better fitting clothing, and more 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.

Breast Reduction 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. If you are considering reduction mammaplasty, learn more about the breast reduction recovery process.

Breast Reduction 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.

Reduction Mammaplasty: Surgical Techniques

There are several types of surgical incisions that can be utilized in breast reduction surgery. Talk to your doctor about which reduction mammaplasty method will be right for your breast size and shape. Learn more about the standard incision breast reduction surgery, the vertical incision breast reduction surgery, and “scarless” breast reduction surgery.

Breast Reduction FAQs

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. 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.