Breast Reduction
Breast reduction or reduction mammaplasty, surgery is performed by removing excess skin, glandular tissue, and fat in order to reshape the breast so it is more proportionate to the rest of the body. Breast reduction can be characterized as both a reconstructive and cosmetic surgery procedure. The procedure almost always includes a breast lift component, which can elevate the nipples to a more ideal, youthful, and attractive location.
Who Is A Candidate For Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction surgery can help alleviate some conditions associated with large breasts such as back and neck pain, skin irritation, and shoulder strap grooving. You may also be a good candidate if your breasts are asymmetrical, disproportionate to your body size, or are heavy.
The physical symptoms caused by large breasts can typically be reduced or largely eliminated by removing excess breast tissue, and/or skin for a beautiful result that is functional and aesthetically pleasing.
What Are The Options For Breast Reconstruction Surgery?
Depending on your unique anatomy and the position of your breasts before surgery, your breast reduction may be completed in either a vertical or anchor pattern. Lipo-sculpture with liposuction of the breast and chest wall is an integral part of a breast reduction to allow for shaping and volume reduction evenly throughout the breast.
Vertical Breast Reduction
This approach limits the incisions to the around the nipple and extending vertically from the nipple to the inframammary fold. This approach is used more commonly for moderately large breasts. Dr. Strazar will be able to review if this option in detail after an examination to choose the best procedure for you.
Wise Pattern Or Anchor Pattern Breast Reduction
This approach is most useful for women with large and very large breasts. It allows for the skin and tissue to be reduced and tightened in all dimensions. In addition to the incision around the areola and vertically down the breast, there is a scar hidden along the breast fold. The resulting scar is in the shape of an anchor and allows for breast reshaping along with significant reductions in breast tissue and skin. A marked improvement in shape and size can be achieved with both approaches.
Breast Reduction Recovery
Your breasts may be wrapped in bandages following the procedure and you may need to wear a surgical bra depending on Dr. Strazar’s recommendations.
After the procedure, the surgical bra or similar non-underwire sports bra will be worn for about six weeks after surgery to support the breasts, minimize swelling, and encourage proper healing. Recovery takes at between 4 to 6 weeks. Swelling, tenderness and bruising is natural, but generally dissipate as recovery progresses. Most patients can easily manage their discomfort with oral pain medication, oftentimes just Tylenol within a few days after surgery. Most patients can return to light duties within a week or two. Activities that involve lifting, straining, or strenuous exercise should be avoided for 6 weeks until the breasts have completely healed.