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BREAST REDUCTION
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 Finance company. Visit them at
www.ourfinanceco.com They will be happy to answer any of your questions or assist you with the necessary paperwork.
Insurance Notes
Insurance policies vary widely, but
Dr. Potparic does not accept insurance.
Ask Dr. Potparic
I have heard the scars are terrible. Can they be avoided?
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.
Will my breasts ever grow big again?
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.
Can a nipple die?
Despite maintaining circulation and innervations 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.
Why is a mammogram necessary?
A mammogram is necessary prior to any breast surgery. In the event cancer is present, aesthetic surgery must be postponed until treatment is concluded.
My doctor advised liposuction of the armpit along with my reduction. Why?
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.