BREAST REDUCTION

Most women want to have a curvy figure but there are many women whose overly curvy figure causes problems. A disproportionately large chest can make it difficult to find clothes that fit. From undergarments that are supportive enough but still look feminine to shirts that won’t button across the front with out gapping, shopping can be a chore. If you can find something that fits across the chest it very often doesn’t fit through the waist and you can look wide or thick because of all the extra fabric.

But clothing fit is not the worst of the problems that women with large chests face. Carrying around extra weight can cause stress and pain to the neck, upper back and shoulders. Some women have grooves in the shoulders where the bra strap sits, holding up all the extra weight. Infections between and under the breasts are quite common as well.

Often women with large breasts are not as physically active as they would like to be because the extra tissue “gets in the way” or makes running or jumping sports impossible because of uncomfortable or painful bouncing.

Breast reduction surgery is a wonderful option to improve back and neck pain, re-establish a more proportionate figure and restore self-confidence. The surgery is a same-day procedure, so the patient goes home after surgery and usually feels less neck and back pain and can stand up straighter almost immediately. Breast reduction patients are very happy with their new shape and regret not having done the surgery sooner.

Breast reduction (or reduction mammaplasty) is an enhancement procedure that reshapes the breasts in order to make them smaller, lighter, and firmer. Reduction is accomplished by removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin. Large breasts can cause physical pain as well as emotional and social anxiety. Women who take advantage of the breast reduction procedure find that they are able to lead a healthier, more comfortable life, in addition to enjoying a beautiful, more proportionate appearance.

REASONS FOR CONSIDERING A BREAST REDUCTION

Back, neck or shoulder pain caused by heavy breasts.
Sagging breasts produced by their large size.
Disproportionate body frame attributed to oversized breasts.
Restriction of physical activity due to the size and weight of the breasts.
Painful bra strap marks and/or rashes as a result of large breasts.

GENERAL PROCEDURE

Techniques for breast reduction vary; however, the most common procedure involves an incision that circles the areola. From the areola, the incision goes down and follows the natural curve under the breast. The surgeon then removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin. Next, the nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher position and held in place by stitches. Occasionally, liposuction alone can be used to reduce breast size. The best procedure can be determined during the initial consultation visit.

Of all cosmetic surgery procedures, breast reduction results in the quickest body-image changes. Patients are pleased with the elimination of physical pain caused by large breasts as well as a better proportioned body, an enhanced appearance, and better fitting clothes.

RECOVERY PROCESS

Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and reduce the recovery time. A special, supportive bra is placed immediately following surgery to aid the healing process and to minimize movement of the breasts. This surgical bra will need to be worn for several weeks post operatively. Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with surgery. Any pain can be treated with oral medication. While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the instructions given after surgery.