Breast Reduction
Breast reduction surgery, (also known as reduction mammaplasty, or simply breast reduction) is a surgical procedure during which a patient undergoes the removal of excess breast fat, tissue, and extra skin to achieve a proper breast size and loft that is proportionate to the body. A breast reduction can alleviate the common discomfort that is associated with over-sized breasts.
Some things to know before your breast reduction procedure - A successful procedure depends very much upon your honesty during the consultation with your surgeon. During the consultation phase of your treatment, you’ll be asked a series of questions about your health, lifestyle, and what your ideal appearance would be.
During you consultation(s), be prepared to discuss:
Other things to expect from your surgeon:
Preparing for Breast Reduction Surgery - Before surgery, you may be asked to undertake some tasks such as the following:
Some things to know before your breast reduction procedure - A successful procedure depends very much upon your honesty during the consultation with your surgeon. During the consultation phase of your treatment, you’ll be asked a series of questions about your health, lifestyle, and what your ideal appearance would be.
During you consultation(s), be prepared to discuss:
- What you expect from the surgery and why you desire the procedure
- Any medical treatments you’ve had, medical conditions and drug allergies you may have
- Use of any external substances, like medications, alcohol, supplements, tobacco, etc.
- Any previous surgeries, cosmetic or other
- Your genetic and family background; a history of breast cancer would certainly be relevant
Other things to expect from your surgeon:
- Your surgeon will discuss your options and recommended course of treatment
- You’ll learn about the likely outcomes of your breast reduction procedure and what risks or potential complications may occur
- Your surgeon will discuss the use of anesthesia during the surgical procedure
- Your surgeon will make an evaluation of your overall health and whether you suffer from any pre-existing health conditions; some conditions might represent risk factors
- You’ll undergo an examination of your breasts
- At some point in the consultative phase, you will have photographs taken for your medical record
Preparing for Breast Reduction Surgery - Before surgery, you may be asked to undertake some tasks such as the following:
- To get lab testing or medical evaluations done
- To take or adjust existing or new medications
- To undergo a mammogram before and after surgery; the mammogram can serve to detect any changes that may occur in your breast tissue
- You may be asked to stop smoking and/or drinking for some period prior to breast reduction surgery
- You will likely be asked to avoid taking aspirin and any other anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as herbal supplements; anti-inflammatory agents thin the blood which can increases bleeding during surgical procedures
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Incision Types in Breast Reduction
A Circular Incision around the areola. The incision lines create small but visible scars; these scars are typically well-concealed under a swimsuit or bra.
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An inverted T or Anchor incision pattern.
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A keyhole incision utilizes a racquet-shaped pattern extending down under the areola
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The Big Day: The breast reduction procedure, what to expect?
During breast reduction surgery, through an incision on, around, or near your breasts, the surgeon will remove the excess fat, glandular tissue and skin. There are cases, where excess fat may be removed through liposuction along with the excision procedures set out below. Specific surgical techniques may vary depending on your physiology, breast structure, reduction size desired, your personal preferences, and the advice of your surgeon.
For your comfort, medications are administered, during the breast reduction surgery. Your choices usually include either intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Your doctor will let you know which one he recommends and would be best suited for you. Incision options include: a circular pattern around the areola; the incision lines that remain will be visible, permanent scars, although easily concealed beneath a swimsuit or bra. Second, a keyhole type pattern with an incision around the areola and down to the breast crease vertically. Finally, an anchor-shaped incision pattern, similar to an upside down “T”.
After the initial incision, the nipple, which will stay secured to its original blood and nerve supply, is then repositioned. The areola is then trimmed, reducing its size, if necessary. The extra underlying breast tissue is then extracted, lifted, and molded. On occasion for excessively big breasts, the nipple and areola may need to be removed entirely and then transplanted to a higher position on the breast. The incisions are pulled together to reshape the new, more petite breast. Sutures are layed in deep in the tissue. This creates a support for the newly-shaped breast. Sutures, adhesives, and if needed, surgical tape are used to close the skin. The incision lines are permanent, but they will continuously fade as time goes on.
Once your breast reduction surgery is finished, dressings and bandages will be used around the surgical area. A support bra can be used daily to keep swelling down and support the breasts as they heal. You may be directed to limit your physical activity for a few days or weeks. After a few weeks, you’ll be able to enjoy your new, improved body!
Fill out the contact form below to schedule your cosmetic consultation.
For your comfort, medications are administered, during the breast reduction surgery. Your choices usually include either intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Your doctor will let you know which one he recommends and would be best suited for you. Incision options include: a circular pattern around the areola; the incision lines that remain will be visible, permanent scars, although easily concealed beneath a swimsuit or bra. Second, a keyhole type pattern with an incision around the areola and down to the breast crease vertically. Finally, an anchor-shaped incision pattern, similar to an upside down “T”.
After the initial incision, the nipple, which will stay secured to its original blood and nerve supply, is then repositioned. The areola is then trimmed, reducing its size, if necessary. The extra underlying breast tissue is then extracted, lifted, and molded. On occasion for excessively big breasts, the nipple and areola may need to be removed entirely and then transplanted to a higher position on the breast. The incisions are pulled together to reshape the new, more petite breast. Sutures are layed in deep in the tissue. This creates a support for the newly-shaped breast. Sutures, adhesives, and if needed, surgical tape are used to close the skin. The incision lines are permanent, but they will continuously fade as time goes on.
Once your breast reduction surgery is finished, dressings and bandages will be used around the surgical area. A support bra can be used daily to keep swelling down and support the breasts as they heal. You may be directed to limit your physical activity for a few days or weeks. After a few weeks, you’ll be able to enjoy your new, improved body!
Fill out the contact form below to schedule your cosmetic consultation.
