Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, can be performed for cosmetic or reconstructive purposes. Large or asymmetric breasts can make it not only difficult to find clothes that fit properly, but can also contribute to chronic back problems and negatively affect self-esteem. The decision to have a breast reduction is an important one, and for many of our patients it is life changing.
Our doctors perform hundreds of these operations a year. Using short scar or no-scar techniques, patients’ operative times and recovery times are reduced. They tailor the breast reduction to each individual patient using the latest techniques and through developing novel methods to reduce scar burden.
“… Dr. Rowe makes everything about what you want. He asks you what your breast surgery end goals are and focuses on them….I’m only upset I didn’t do this sooner! ~E.A.
Procedure
The procedure involves removing breast tissue and often skin, leaving you with a smaller, lighter, more youthful breast. A breast lift often accompanies the procedure. The areola are sized to match your new, smaller breast. The nipple is usually left attached to breast tissue to preserve its function and sensation.
Our doctors use a short scar or “lollipop” technique in the majority of cases. The resulting scar is hidden around the areola and has a vertical component giving it the appearance of a “lollipop.” This technique results in a more rounded or natural breast shape. The lift associated with this technique has more projection and less bottoming out over time than that seen in many traditional approaches. Certain patients with poor skin quality or those that have lost significant weight may require longer incisions.
Liposuction is often used as an adjunct to surgery to help contour the breasts to your body. Sometimes it is used as a primary method to reduce the size of the breast and avoid external scars.
The surgery typically takes 2 hours to perform. You can expect to go home the same day as your surgery as the procedure is performed in an ambulatory or outpatient setting. You will be given a surgical bra to wear after surgery, providing you with some light compression. Drains are avoided except in certain situations. The sutures used are all absorbable so there is no need for suture removal except in rare circumstances. Healing is generally not painful and usually takes place in 1-2 weeks, however, strenuous exercise is limited for 5-6 weeks.
There is no age limit to breast reduction surgery, and breast reductions are performed on patients as young as 16 with parental permission.
Breast-feeding can be affected by any breast surgery, and breast reduction surgery is no different. Therefore, if you are intent on breastfeeding, then it may be better to wait until after you are done having children to proceed with your surgery.
Although rare, risks associated with breast reduction surgery include decreased sensation, prolonged wound healing, asymmetry, infection, bleeding, and possible reactions to anesthesia.
Finances
We want you to get the procedure you need to look and feel your best. Financing is available if needed. Breast reduction surgery may be covered by insurance and can improve your quality of life. Our team is very experienced at walking patients and families through this, often frustrating, process. While the amount of coverage depends on your individual insurance policy, our team will work with you and your insurance company to get your breast reduction covered as much as possible.