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Breast Enhancement
Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty)
 Who is a candidate?
Women with excessively large, heavy breasts are good
candidates for this surgery. Physical problems
may include pain in the neck, back and shoulders;
rashes in the crease of the breast and poor posture. Psychological
and lifestyle issues often present themselves as well. Women
with very large breasts have trouble finding proper
clothing and are unable to participate in activities
others take for granted.
How is it done?
A breast reduction removes excess breast tissue and
fat and sculpts the breast into a lighter, smaller
shape. Incisions are made around the areola,
vertically down from the areola to the breast crease
or horizontally at the breast crease. Type and location
of the incisions are discussed at consultation and
are dependent upon anatomy. Excess fat, skin
and tissue are removed through these incisions and
the nipple is repositioned to match the new breast
shape. The wounds are closed with multiple layers
of stitches and although the nipple is relocated,
it remains attached to the blood vessels and nerves
so sensation is unaffected. Liposuction often
accompanies a breast reduction procedure to further
sculpt the chest and underarm area. A breast reduction
is done under general anesthesia usually on an outpatient
basis. Suction drains may
or may not be used to remove natural body secretions
after surgery depending on each individual patient. These
are usually left in place overnight.
Recuperation
A breast reduction is considered more extensive than
an augmentation or lift. You may leave the surgery
center with suction tubes in your chest area. These
help reduce swelling, bruising and blood clots. They
are usually removed one to two days after surgery. Stitch
removal is done 7 to 14 days post surgery. Patients
are typically back to work in 10 to 21 days. Scars
slowly fade over a 6 to 12 month period.
Other Options
Liposuction. Click here for Liposculpture
A word about financing…
Breast reduction can be made very affordable through
our partners at CareCredit. Visit them at www.carecredit.com Deborah
would be happy to answer any of your questions or
assist you with the necessary paperwork.
Insurance Notes:
Insurance policies vary widely, but if there is a legitimate
health issue Dr. Beck and Dr. Brink will act within
the stipulations of your coverage if possible. Deborah
can assist you with any pre-certification requested
by your carrier. |
Ask Dr. Beck
Q: |
I have heard the scars are terrible. Can
they be avoided? |
A: |
The incision pattern is very dependent upon your anatomy. They
are necessary in order to remove the right amount of
fat and tissue. Keep in mind that the skin of
an enlarged breast has been stretched over time and
increases your risk for raised, wide or irregular scars. The
trade off of physical scars over psychological scars
is one many women are willing to accept. |
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Q: |
Will my breasts ever grow big again? |
A: |
Breast reduction is considered a permanent procedure,
however significant weight gain or pregnancy can affect
the overall result. It is important to maintain
a healthy diet and exercise program post surgery. |
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Q: |
Can a nipple die? |
A: |
Despite maintaining circulation and innervation to
the nipple during relocation, it is possible that
the nipple can partially or completely die. This
is a very unlikely event and if this did occur, reconstructive
options exist. |
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Q: |
Why is a mammogram necessary? |
A: |
A mammogram is necessary prior to any breast surgery. In
the event cancer is present, aesthetic surgery must
be postponed until treatment is concluded. |
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Q: |
My doctor advised Liposuction of the armpit along with
my reduction. Why? |
A: |
It is common to have Liposuction as a complementary
procedure with a breast reduction. The new shape
and size of your breasts can be optimized if surrounding
fat is removed for better overall contour. |
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