Breast reduction surgery is a procedure designed to remove excess tissue and reshape the breasts. It is often considered by patients because of the discomfort and/or self-consciousness frequently associated with breasts that are simply too large and heavy for one’s body frame. This is a very commonly performed procedure that can have major advantages for women who are trying to achieve more balanced body proportions and enhance their livelihood. Our board-certified plastic surgeon, Amie Miller, MD, can create a customized breast reduction treatment plan with the goal of producing smaller breasts and a renewed aesthetic balance.
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What Are the Benefits of Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction offers many women suffering from overly large breasts significant functional and aesthetic advantages, including:
- A smaller breast size and improved breast proportions
- Alleviation of symptoms such as shoulder, neck, and back pain caused by heavy breasts
- Reduction in sagging (breast ptosis)
- Reduction of skin rashes under the breasts caused by excessive breast tissue
- The ability to participate in certain types of exercise that may have been challenging due to pendulous breasts
- Greater self-confidence in social situations
- Improved ability to fit in the clothing of one’s choice
- Less chance of developing indentations in the skin from bra straps
An excess amount of tissue in the breasts can also affect men. The condition is known as gynecomastia, and it is quite common among men across the age spectrum. Dr. Miller also offers gynecomastia treatment with male breast reduction procedures that can create a flatter appearance in the chest.
What Does the Breast Reduction Procedure Involve?
Breast reduction is usually performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis, and typically takes at least three hours to complete. There are a few different techniques that can be utilized for this procedure; Dr. Miller will talk with you about the options during your consultation and determine which is most appropriate based on your individual needs and goals. For most breast reduction procedures, an incision is created in the area surrounding the areola and then extended down to the breast crease (inframammary fold). Dr. Miller will remove excess skin, fat, and/or glandular tissue, and then carefully recontour and reshape the breasts. In some cases, patients may only need liposuction to successfully achieve their goals. Dr. Miller can talk more with you during the initial consultation about whether breast reduction with liposuction only may be all that is necessary for the procedure.
What Can I Expect During Breast Reduction Recovery?
Most patients are able to resume normal daily activities approximately one to two weeks following the breast reduction procedure. Side effects such as swelling and bruising can be expected as the breasts heal; however, discomfort during this period can be controlled with medication. Patients should refrain from heavy lifting and strenuous exercises for a minimum of six weeks after the procedure.
Do you have questions about breast reduction? Please contact us for additional information, or to schedule a consultation.