Breast Reduction

WHAT IS A BREAST REDUCTION?

A breast reduction is to remove excess breast tissue, while reshaping the breasts to a youthful appearance. The surgery may or may not be performed to help alleviate some negative symptoms, such as back pain, neck pain, shoulder bra grooving, rashes under the breast fold, and breast heaviness.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BREAST REDUCTION AND MASTOPEXY?

The difference is in the amount of breast tissue to be removed.  Breast reduction typically involves removing more tissue to help address some of the negative symptoms associated with large, pendulous breasts.  Both surgeries provide lifting of the nipple/areolar complex to a higher, more youthful position.

WHAT IS YOUR TREATMENT APPROACH TO BREAST REDUCTION?

Breast reduction surgery takes anywhere from 2 to 4 hours. Dr. Chen will remove excess tissue in the breast and move the nipple and areola to a higher location. Your breast will be reshaped and your areola size may be reduced.  There are three different types of incisions that can be used depending on the amount of breast tissue to be removed, patient preference, and body shape.

1. Anchor Incision or Inverted T: there are three incisions – the first is around the areola, the second is a vertical incision from the areola to the crease in your breast, and the third is a horizontal incision right in the breast crease.

2. Lollipop or Keyhole Incision: there is an incision along the border of the areola and from the lowest point on the areola down to the breast crease.

3. Donut or Peri-areolar Incision: there is only one incision around the areola.

WHAT TYPE OF ANESTHESIA IS USED DURING BREAST REDUCTION?

A breast reduction is performed under general anesthesia and is an outpatient procedure. The surgery lasts between two to four hours, depending on the breast size.

POST OPERATIVE CARE AND RECOVERY

After surgery, Dr. Chen will place bandages over the surgery sites and apply a compression bra. You will be prescribed antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection and pain medications to help with post-operative discomfort.  You will return to the office 1 day after surgery for a close monitoring of your progress.

It will be important to move around immediately after surgery to help with circulation and healing. You should be able to return to work after about one week.

WHAT ARE THE RESULTS OF BREAST REDUCTION?

You will be left with more youthful, firm, and attractive breasts. Symptoms of breast heaviness, back pain, neck pain, and rashes may be improved or alleviated after surgery.

IS A BREAST REDUCTION RIGHT FOR ME?

If you feel your breasts are too large or heavy for the size of your body, you may be a good candidate for breast reduction surgery. Reducing the size of overly large breasts increases self-confidence, allows clothing to fit better, and provides relief from physical issues such as shoulder, back, and neck pain.

The goal of breast reduction surgery is to create smaller, lighter, and more proportionate breasts.

YOUR CONSULTATION WITH DR. CHEN

Dr. Chen will create a personalized treatment plan after a comprehensive breast examination and a detailed discussion regarding your personal goals. At this time, a decision will be made regarding how much skin and breast tissue may be removed. A thorough medical history will also be obtained to ensure surgery is a safe option for you. Dr. Chen will discuss all surgical and non-surgical options so that you can make an informed decision about what is the right choice for you. We will also verify your insurance because some will cover the cost of a breast reduction.

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