What is a Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction is one of the most common plastic surgeries we perform and address the issue of Macromastia or an enlarged breast. A reduction first removes excess breast tissue and skin then repositions the breast tissue to recreate a shapely breast. The primary goal of breast reduction surgery is to relieve symptoms associated with large, heavy and pendulous breasts. The secondary goals, of course, include a more shapely breast, a lifted breast, and correction of nipple changes that occur with large size and age.
What are the Symptoms of Large Breasts?
Patients with oversized or pendulous breast can report pain in the neck, shoulder and back. They will notice shoulder grooving from bra straps, and in some cases will have rashes beneath the breasts.
How is a Breast Reduction Done?
All methods of breast reductions require incisions and scars on the breasts are an unavoidable, but they are placed in position that these scars are not visible. The skin is incised, and breast tissue flaps are created so that the nipple and areola can maintain their blood flow. Then, the excess breast tissue is removed. The flaps and breast tissue are rotated to the their new location and the nipple and areola is position in its new location.
During your Consult
At the time of your consultation we will review your goals. Dr. Brown will evaluate your medical conditions, drug allergies, current medications/herbal supplements and prior surgical history.
He will examine your breasts, take measurements, and finally take photographs. Dr. Brown will discuss the technique most appropriate to treat your breasts and potential outcomes.
Prior to Surgery
To get ready for surgery there are a number important steps. We will obtain recent blood work and sometimes obtain medical clearance from your primary doctor.
You must stop smoking. You must avoid taking Aspirin, anti-inflammatories and herbal supplements for 3 weeks prior to surgery as this increases the risk of bleeding. Certain hormones must also be stopped as these increase the risk of Deep vein thrombosis.
The Procedure
Dr. Brown will perform some markings in the preoperative area. This surgery is typically done under a general anesthesia. Dr. Brown will inject the area with local anesthetic. Most patients are quite comfortable after surgery. The incisions are made, the breast and skin tissue are opened and excess breast tissue is excised. The nipple and areola are repositioned. Symmetry is checked and adjustments are made. The soft tissue and skin are then closed in layers and a supportive bra is placed.
How is the Recovery?
Some mild to moderate soreness persists for a few days or week but light activity and exercise is encouraged in the early post op period. Finally, most people can return to work within a few days or a week.
Risks
- Anesthesia Risks
- Bleeding/Hematoma
- Infection
- Poor Healing of Incisions
- Numbness or changes in breast skin or nipple sensation
- Loss or necrosis of the skin and aeola
- Breast Asymmetry
- Fluid Accumulation
- Deep Vein thrombosis
- Cardiac and pulmonary complications
- Possibility of Revision Surgery