Breast Reduction

Breast reduction or surgical mammoplasty ranks among the top five most popular surgeries in the United States. The women who have this surgery are interested in reducing the amount of fatty tissue in their breasts. Many women complain of back and neck pain, discomfort when wearing a bra, and show gouges where bra straps have dug into their flesh.

A standard breast reduction involves a surgical procedure that can last up to four hours. The excess breast tissue is removed, the breast is then lifted and the nipple is relocated to create symmetry. There is usually some amount of scarring, sometimes extensive. The aftercare is intensive.

According to a recent survey (Plastic Reconstruction Surgery issue 2004) a new technology is making its way through this industry. The stem cells within the breasts are slowly frozen, allowing the breasts to shrink naturally and not leave behind deep indentations. This is appealing for women who have had a biopsy or a lumpectomy.

The general rule for a breast reduction is that women who need 800 grams or less removed from their breasts are good candidates. These women are plagued with back problems (poor alignment) muscle strain and neck problems. A breast reduction eliminates the pain bringing relief. If the woman has rashes or small bumps under her breasts, she would also be a good candidate for a breast reduction.

The surgeon may elect to use breast liposuction which is easier on the patient. It does not require an overnight hospital stay, drains placed in the body for 2 days or 2 weeks, and long aftercare. The numbing of the breasts and the anchor shaped scar is also eliminated.

With breast liposuction you get a small incision. The procedure can be done under a local and unless main complications occur, the patient can go home right after. Breast liposuction offers minimal scarring.

Studies show that women who have a history of breast cancer in their families, fare better with a breast reduction as it lowers the risk of breast cancer. (Dr. Susan Love’s Breast Book).

Vertical Reduction is a fairly new procedure of breast reduction and involves less of a scar, with the incision being made around the areola and then going underneath the breast. Two weeks of rest with a surgical support bra, the patient can return to work in 7-10 days. A sporting bra is required after healing.

Many insurance companies will cover the cost of this operation if it can be proven that the woman has health issues based on the size of her breasts.

Women who are endowed with huge, sagging breasts are not good candidates for this surgery.

Look to spend upwards of $5,000.00