Description

Breast reduction surgery reduces the overall size of the breast, while maintaining a beautiful shape, and lifts the breast mound and nipple to a more youthful position.  The incision for breast reduction surgery is typically the “anchor” pattern which means around the nipple, vertically from the nipple to the crease under the breast and horizontally in the fold of the breast.  Breast tissue and fatty tissue is removed from the inner, outer and central portions of the large breast to create a smaller, more proportionate breast mound and skin is then brought together to support the tissue and the nipple in a higher position.  Often, the size of the nipple/areola is made smaller so as not to be inconsistent with the new, smaller breast.  This surgery is done under a general anesthesia and is usually under four hours in the operating room.  For most people this is an out-patient procedure and in some cases can be covered by insurance.   For some women, liposuction can be performed to do a small volume breast reduction.

Good Candidates

A good candidate for breast reduction surgery is an otherwise healthy patient with large breasts that cause discomfort or interfere with normal activities.   Some women restrict their physical activity due to large breasts or even suffer from low self-esteem.  Large, heavy breasts can lead to neck and back problems, leave “grooves” in the shoulders where the bra straps dig in and even have rashes that develop under or between the breasts where skin touches skin.  Often women have difficulty finding clothes or bathing suits that cover large breasts and must sleep wearing a supportive bra to be comfortable.

Dressings

After surgery, the incisions will likely have sutures and either tape or surgical glue.  A compression garment will be worn for several weeks after surgery.  This typically looks like a sports bra.

Recovery

Most patients will receive antibiotics and pain medication for surgery.  The compression garment is necessary and helps support the surgical area.  It can be worn under normal clothing.  There will be limits to full range of motion of the arms during the early days after the procedure.  You will need to have someone available to help after surgery for a few days.  Depending on the type of work you do, one to three weeks of recovery time is recommended.  You will mostly not be back to full activities for six weeks.

Possible Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of bleeding, infection, poor wound healing and visible scarring.  Your cosmetic surgeon can suggest available treatments to improve your healing and final scar results.  Fluid accumulation (seroma), numbness or other sensation changes, and damage to deeper structures (like nerves, vessels or muscles) are less likely but may occur. Possible need for revision surgery.  Other risks associated with anesthesia and any health conditions you may have will be discussed with your doctor prior to any surgical procedures.