Breast Reduction
(Reduction Mammaplasty)
What is the Procedure?
Breast reduction surgery is a procedure designed for women with large, heavy breasts (macromastia) to achieve a breast size that is more in proportion with their body. More than just a cosmetic procedure, it is often performed to alleviate the significant physical and emotional discomfort associated with overly large breasts. This includes chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain, skin irritation, and difficulty with physical activity. The surgery removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin, resulting in breasts that are lighter, smaller, firmer, and more lifted.
Who is a Good Candidate for this Procedure?
You are likely an excellent candidate for breast reduction if you:
- E xperience chronic pain in your back, neck, or shoulders due to the weight of your breasts.
- Have bra straps that dig into your shoulders, leaving indentations.
- Suffer from chronic skin rashes or irritation beneath your breasts.
- Find that your breast size limits your ability to participate in physical activities.
- Feel self conscious or unhappy with your large breasts.
- Are physically healthy, a non smoker, and have realistic expectations.
The Consultation Process
- During your compassionate and thorough consultation, we will discuss the physical symptoms and emotional distress your large breasts are causing you. I will perform a physical examination to assess the size and shape of your breasts, your skin quality, and the position of your nipples. We will discuss your desired breast size and the surgical techniques that can achieve this, including potential scarring and any impact on sensation or breastfeeding
Surgical Procedure
- Incision Techniques: The specific pattern depends on the amount of reduction required.
- Anchor or Inverted-T Incision: The most common technique for significant reductions. It involves three incisions: one around the areola, one vertically down from the areola to the breast crease, and one horizontally along the breast crease. This allows for maximum removal of tissue and skin.
- Lollipop or Vertical Incision: This technique avoids the horizontal incision in the breast crease and is suitable for moderate reductions with good skin elasticity.
Recovery and Downtime
- Week 1: You will experience soreness, swelling, and bruising. You will wear a special surgical bra for support. Drains may be in place for the first 1-2 days. Rest is essential.
- Weeks 2-3: Most patients can return to work (if non-strenuous) and light activities. You must continue to avoid heavy lifting and vigorous exercise.
Weeks 4-6: Swelling will noticeably decrease. You may be cleared to resume most exercises, except for high-impact activities or direct chest workouts.
Months 6-12: The final shape and size of your breasts will settle. Scars will continue to mature and fade over the next year or more.
Potential Risks and Complications
- Risks include infection, bleeding, poor scarring, loss of nipple sensation (can be temporary or permanent), asymmetry, and difficulty or inability to breastfeed. Adherence to post-operative care instructions is crucial for minimizing these risks.
Frequently Asked questions (FAQs)
What cup size will I be?
We will focus on achieving a size that is proportional to your body and relieves your physical symptoms, rather than targeting a specific cup size, which can vary between brands.
Will my insurance cover this procedure?
In some cases, breast reduction is considered medically necessary and may be covered by insurance. This requires thorough documentation of physical symptoms. We can guide you on this process.
Will the scars be very noticeable?
While scars are permanent, they are placed strategically and fade significantly over time. We use meticulous surgical techniques to ensure the best possible cosmetic outcome.
Take the Next Step
Find relief and achieve a more comfortable, confident you. Contact my office in Rajahmundry to schedule a consultation for breast reduction surgery