What is a Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction, also referred to as reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure to reduce the size of overly large breasts to improve body balance and comfort. Patients often opt for a breast reduction when they begin to experience the physical or emotional discomforts of overly large breasts. This includes neck pain and shoulder pain from carrying around extra weight on the chest. Patients might also complain about not being able to wear the clothes they’d like or finding exercise uncomfortable. Patients can find relief from these discomforts and improve their confidence with the breast reduction procedure.
Just had a breast augmentation with Dr. Shaddix. The team was so sweet and reassuring, I have terrible anxiety and they put me at ease. Dr. Shaddix listened to what I wanted and gave me all the info I needed to make an informed decision. Altogether a wonderful experience”
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Your Customized Breast Reduction
The techniques used during your breast reduction surgery will depend on the size of your breasts and your goals. Liposuction is often used when excess fat is causing an overly large breast volume. Another technique is surgical tissue excision, usually required when a significant decrease is desired. During the breast reduction, the nipples can also be repositioned, and some women opt for a breast lift as well to remove stretched or excess skin and breast tissue to optimize their results. Dr. Shaddix will go over which techniques are best for you at your breast reduction consultation.
The Procedure
The breast reduction procedure will be performed under general anesthesia in our surgical facility. The techniques used during the procedure will differ from patient to patient. The most common technique requires an incision around the areola and a vertical incision down to the breast crease and under the breast. Excess tissue, skin, and fat will be removed and the nipples and areolas will be lifted to a natural-looking position. The incisions will then be closed with sutures.
Recovery After a Breast Reduction
After breast reduction, plenty of rest will be required. This involves limiting activity and taking the proper time off work to recover at home. Most women wait one week before returning to work and regular daily activity. Your breasts will be bandaged immediately after surgery and you will then be instructed to wear a surgical bra and/or compression garments to ensure proper healing and reduce swelling. This should be worn for about six weeks or until you have been cleared by Dr. Shaddix.
You can expect some degree of discomfort, but this can be managed with a prescription pain medication from Dr. Shaddix or an over-the-counter pain medication. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Shaddix will provide you with all the necessary post-op instructions at the time of your procedure. He will also be available to answer any questions you might have along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can breast grow back after reduction?Can you drink alcohol after breast reduction?Do you lose feeling in your nipples after breast reduction?Do you lose weight after breast reduction?Does breast size affect weight?Does insurance pay for breast reduction? |
