Breast Reduction
Women with excessively heavy breasts may look into breast reduction surgery (reduction mammaplasty) to relieve the physical restrictions and strain on the neck, shoulders, and back caused by their breasts. This excess weight can lead to chronic headaches, shoulder indentations, skin irritation, and other issues.
Breast reduction surgery can remove excess breast tissue to reshape and lift the breasts. The results are smaller, lighter, firmer breasts that are in better proportion with the rest of the body.
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Who Is a Candidate for a Breast Reduction?
Women who are interested in breast reduction should be in good general health and have realistic expectations for what the procedure can do for them. You may be a candidate for breast reduction if:
- Your activities are limited due to large breasts
- You experience physical discomfort due to your breasts
- You are not currently pregnant or breastfeeding
- You want to improve the appearance and/or comfort of your breasts
Because of the functional issues associated with extremely large breasts, insurance may cover the cost of your surgery. Speak with your doctor and insurance provider to find out if your procedure is covered.
What Does a Breast Reduction Entail?
Breast reduction is typically an outpatient procedure performed using general anesthesia. The most common incision used is the “anchor” incision, which circles the areola, extends down the center of the breast, and continues along the breast crease. Excess fat, skin, and glandular tissue are removed, and the nipple and areola are lifted to a more youthful position. Incisions are closed using sutures.
In most cases, the nipples remain attached to the blood vessels and nerves. However, if the breasts are very large, the nipples and areolas may have to be completely removed and grafted to their new position.
The periareolar, or doughnut, incision may be effective if there is not a large excess of skin. Liposuction can also be used if only minimal correction is needed. Dr. Nguyen will discuss the different methods with you during your consultation.
Breast Reduction Recovery
Your bandages will be removed after a day or two, and you will wear a surgical bra for several weeks to help minimize swelling and bruising. Small surgical drains may be placed to prevent fluid accumulation. Stitches will be removed in one to three weeks. Any pain can be remedied with prescribed medications.
You can resume light activities within a few days, although your chest will be sore. More strenuous physical activity and exercises (especially lifting, pulling, and pushing motions) should be avoided for at least six weeks. Scars will develop, but many patients find the satisfaction provided by breast reduction to outweigh the presence of scars. All scars fade with time.
Breast Reduction Results
Breast reduction has the most immediate and dramatic results of all breast procedures. Your physical discomfort is gone, your body is better proportioned, and clothes will fit better.
The breasts will remain lifted longer than they would have if breast reduction had not been performed. However, gravity continues to work, and the breasts will sag again with time. You can prolong your results by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Results may vary from patient to patient.