About Procedure
Before & After
« Breast Reduction
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Is breast reduction right for me?
Breast reduction can be performed at any age, but plastic surgeons usually recommend waiting until breast development has stopped. Childbirth and breast-feeding may affect the size and shape of your breasts. If you plan to breast-feed in the future, you should discuss this with your surgeon.

You may be a good candidate for breast reduction if you have any of the following conditions:
•  Back, neck or shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breasts
•  Heavy, sagging breasts with very low nipples and areolas
•  Breasts that are too large in proportion to your body frame
•  Skin irritation beneath the breasts
•  Indentations in your shoulders caused by tight bra straps
•  Restriction of physical activity due to the size and weight of your breasts
•  Feelings of self-consciousness about the large size of your breasts
•  One breast that is much larger than the other



What should I expect from the consultation?
A personal consultation is the first step for every patient considering breast reduction. During this meeting, your surgeon will assess your physical and emotional health and discuss your specific goals for the surgical procedure.

You should arrive at the consultation prepared to provide complete information about:
•  Previous surgical procedures
•  Past and present medical conditions
•  Medications you are taking, including herbal remedies or nutritional supplements
•  Past experience with weight loss and the effect it had on your breast size

When examining your breasts, your plastic surgeon will consider their size and shape, the quality of your skin and the placement of the nipples. Measurements and photographs may be taken for your medical record.

Some insurance companies will pay for breast reduction to relieve medical symptoms; however, coverage may depend on a significant amount of breast tissue being removed. A letter of predetermination may be required by your insurance company prior to surgery. Your surgeon’s office staff will help you with insurance matters related to the procedure. If you are seeking a purely cosmetic change in your breast size, you will pay for the procedure yourself.



How is breast reduction performed?
The specific method chosen for your breast reduction will be determined by your anatomy, your surgeon’s preferences and your desired results.

The most common method uses a three-part incision. One part of the incision is made around the areola (nipple area). Another runs vertically from the bottom edge of the areola to the crease underneath the breast. The third part is a horizontal incision beneath the breast, which follows the natural curve of the breast crease.

After the surgeon has removed the excess breast tissue, fat and skin, the nipple and areola are shifted to a higher position. The areola, which is usually larger than ideal, is reduced in size. Skin that was formerly located above the nipple is brought down and together to reshape the breast. Liposuction may be used to improve the contour, especially on the sides of the breasts.

The nipples and areolas usually remain attached to their underlying tissue as they are moved to their higher position – much like a button being moved to a higher buttonhole – and this may allow for the preservation of sensation. This method may also preserve the ability to breast-feed, although it is not guaranteed.

The type of incision used for your breast reduction may vary, depending on the size and shape of your breasts and the desired amount of reduction. Women who seek a smaller reduction in size may be able to avoid the horizontal incision that runs underneath the breast. Other incisional techniques may be used in some instances. Women whose breasts contain a significant amount of fatty tissue may find that liposuction alone can be used to reduce breast size with only minimal scars.



How will I learn about the safety of breast reduction?
Each year, thousands of women undergo breast reduction and experience no major complications. However, it is important for you to be informed of the risks as well as the benefits. One of the most important parts of your consultation is the discussion that you and your surgeon will have about the possible complications of breast reduction surgery. In addition to listening carefully to what your surgeon tells you, be sure to raise any questions or concerns that you may have about the safety of the procedure.

Remember, by carefully following your surgeon’s advice and instructions – both before and after surgery – you can do your part to minimize some of the risks.