Breast
Reduction Surgery
What Is Breast Reduction Surgery
Reduction mammaplasty, also known as breast reduction surgery, is a cosmetic procedure used to remove excess skin, fat, and tissue from the breasts. This surgery helps to alleviate the discomfort associated with excessively large breasts, a condition known as macromastia. The results are breasts that are more in proportion to your body. Men who suffer from conditions like gynecomastia in which male breasts are abnormally enlarged also may get a breast reduction.
Benefits Of Breast Reduction Surgery
Whether you are considering breast reduction surgery for cosmetic or medical reasons, the surgery has many benefits. Not only will this surgery reduce neck and shoulder pain, but it will also improve your posture, reduce pressure from bra straps on your shoulders, increase comfort when performing physical activities, and reduce skin irritation caused by heavy breasts. Along with the physical ailments of macromastia, some patients suffer from emotional distress or mental health issues as a result of their large breasts. Imagine the boost in self-confidence you will feel when you have breasts that are more proportionate with the rest of your frame. Clothing will fit better and you will be proud of the enhanced shape and symmetry of your breasts. While it may take time for you to adjust to your new look, breast reduction patients report the highest level of satisfaction of any plastic surgery procedure.
How Breast Reduction Surgery Is Performed
There are many different techniques for breast reduction surgery. All of these remove excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin. The nipple and areola are moved to a new position during the process. After removing the excess tissue our plastic surgeons will reshape the remaining tissue, giving a new and more pleasing shape to the breast. The procedure takes approximately 2-3 hours, although the number of incisions made and the length of time may vary depending on the complexity of the breast reduction.
Recovery From Breast Reduction Surgery
Immediately after surgery you may experience swelling, discomfort, bruising, and tenderness. All of these are easily controlled with medication. You will most likely have to wear an elastic bandage and a sports-type support bra to help minimize the swelling and to support your breasts after the operation. The incision lines from your breast reduction will gradually fade and the marks that are left are easily concealable underneath clothing. After the surgery, it is typical to return to light activity within 2 days or as you feel ready. Most patients return to work within seven to ten days. The exact amount of time will depend on the extent of your surgery, the physical demands of your work, and your pain tolerance. Patients are cautioned not to resume full physical activity for 3 to 6 weeks.
Side Effects Or Complications Of Mammaplasty
The decision to have breast reduction is an extremely personal one. Breast reduction surgery has the same potential complications as any other type of surgery such as bleeding, adverse reaction to anesthesia, bruising, and risk of infection. Scars are also a normal side effect of this type of surgery. These scars will fade over time. However, they will not completely disappear. Some patients have reported a change in nipple or breast sensation which may be temporary or permanent. Others have had a more difficult time breast-feeding or have had differences in size and symmetry which might lead to further surgery to improve appearance. We are committed to your well-being. Your plastic surgeon or surgery staff will sit down with you and explain in detail all the risks involved with this type of surgery.
Will Insurance Cover Breast Reduction Surgery
Many insurance companies will cover breast reduction surgery if it is determined to be medically necessary. In other cases, it is considered a cosmetic surgery and will not be covered. It is important to contact your insurance company and verify whether they will cover all of part of the cost of your breast reduction. Your surgeon can help you gather the necessary information and measurements to send to the insurance company before surgery. We also offer financing through Care Credit for any portion of the cost that your insurance will not cover.
Why Choose Sandeen and Lee For Breast Reduction Surgery
We are dedicated to providing each patient the high-quality care they deserve. The choice to have breast reduction surgery is very personal. We understand this and will always work with you to make sure that we understand your specific goals and desires. Our board-certified plastic surgeons will help you achieve beautiful results that you can be proud of.
