 
Large, heavy breasts can cause constant back, neck, and shoulder pain. The primary reason women seek out breast reduction surgery is to reduce aches and enjoy a more active lifestyle. But the surgery also enhances appearance immensely, improving overall body image.
The Surgery
Breast reduction surgery generally falls into two categories.
- The most common procedure involves making anchor-shaped incisions that circle the areola and extend downward, following the natural curve of the breast. Excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin are removed. The nipple and areola are then moved to their new position. Skin is shaped around the areola to give the breasts a new, uplifted contour.
In most cases, the nipples remain attached to their blood vessels and nerves. However, if the breasts are very large or hang loosely, the nipples and areolas may have to be completely removed and grafted into a higher position.
- Periareolar Method. If you don't have a large amount of excess of skin, we can use this technique. It has the advantage of hiding scars. However, it tends to flatten the breast shape to some degree.
In general, the more skin that's cut, the more it is possible to shape the breast. Therefore, there is a trade-off between the extent of the scars and the extent of the shaping of the breast.
- Insurance coverage is sometimes available. Many factors will determine your eligibility, including the specific terms of your insurance policy and the amount of breast tissue to be removed.
A letter of predetermination may be required by your insurance company prior to surgery.
Although breast surgery differs according to each women's unique needs and which type of surgery she chooses, here are some general guidelines.
Is It Painful?
- Your breasts will probably be sore for two or three days.
- The discomfort is greatest within the first 48 hours, but improves with each day.
- We'll give you pain medication if you're sensitive to pain.
What Is the Recovery Period Like? 
- The gauze dressing will be removed after a couple of days to a week.
- You'll wear a surgical bra for a few weeks.
- Your stitches will be removed about one week after the surgery (if there are any to remove).
- Your breasts will be bruised, and you may experience temporary numbness around the nipples, as well as random shooting pains. These conditions generally subside within several weeks.
What's the Downtime?
- For the first few days, you need to limit your activities and movement to prevent breaking the stitches and stretching the scars.
- Most women can return to work after two weeks (sometimes sooner).
- Overhead lifting and strenuous movements should be avoided for several weeks.
This Is A No-Brainer
There's no longer any reason to put up with breasts that make you unhappy. Plastic surgeons have been helping women improve their breasts since the dawn of our profession.
Today's breast surgery is safe and can give you a life-changing result. |
