Is breast reduction surgery right for me? The answer to this question is very personal. It depends on whether a patient believes that their breast size and position are a problem. Neck pain, back pain, bra strap grooves, and an overall feeling that the breast size is a burden. As you know breast, in many different sizes. In comparison, small breasts are treated with breast augmentation which is a different type of procedure. Pendulous large heavy breasts that are a burden to the patient are candidates for reduction, reshaping, and lifting.
The incision for this operation is around the areola, vertically down to the infra-memory crease, and then horizontally within the crease of the breast completing the ability of the surgeon to reduce excess volume, elevate the nipple, and overall create a smaller and perkier breast.
Breast reduction in the right patient done properly is a very rewarding procedure and can be life-changing for the woman who has been burdened with excessively large breasts. Occasionally these patients have axillary or armpit tissue also in excess which can be surgically removed at the same time.
Breast Reduction
As with any operation, there are risks. Because the procedure requires the removal of breast tissue the blood supply to the remaining tissue may be compromised. Therefore, one of the complications of this operation is the loss of tissue around the nipple and possibly the nipple itself.
If there is no major weight gain or pregnancy after breast reduction the new size and shape should be maintained. However, there is a process whereby the skin below the nipple-areola may stretch out again or bottom out as they say causing a pseudo-type of sag. A good support bra and moisture station help to reduce this risk.
Some insurance companies may deem reduction a covered expense, but this has become less frequent lately. In our practice, we do not deal with insurance companies and focus our service directly on the patient’s needs.
THOMAS TREVISANI, MD
BOARD-CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON
MEMBER OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF AESTHETIC PLASTIC SURGERY
