 Breast Reduction
BREAST REDUCTION
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Heavy breasts can lead to physical discomfort, a variety of medical problems, shoulder indentations due
to tight bra straps, and extreme self-consciousness
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Breast reconstruction is for women who have undergone mastectomy due to cancer or other disease. Appropriate procedures vary from case to case and are best determined in consultation with your doctor. Implants, flap reconstruction (using the patient’s own tissue), and skin expansion are just a few of the options available.
Reconstructive surgery can be performed simultaneously with mastectomy. Please ask your surgeon about immediate breast reconstruction, and if you get the go-ahead, we will be able to assist you in feeling whole again by performing immediate breast reconstruction.
With new medical techniques and devices, it’s now possible to create a breast that closely resembles the form and appearance of a natural breast. The ideal candidate is a woman whose cancer has, as best as can be determined, been eliminated by mastectomy.
Breast reconstruction is often performed in several stages. The first stage, creation of the breast mound, may be performed at the same time as the mastectomy or at a later date and often takes place in a hospital. General anesthesia is commonly used. Follow-up procedures may be performed at a hospital or at our in-office facility and may require just local anesthesia and sedation. Follow-up procedures may be necessary to replace a tissue expander with an implant, reconstruct the nipple and areola, or alter the reconstructed breast to better match the natural breast. Frequently surgery is performed to either lift or reduce the opposite breast.
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The exact procedure will vary for each patient. In general, however, excess glandular tissue, fat and skin are removed and the nipple and areola are lifted to a more normal anatomical position. The nipples are most often left attached to their blood vessels and nerves, though very large or pendulous breasts may require that the nipples and areolas be completely removed and then grafted to a higher position. Loss of tactile sensation in the nipples and areola tissue can be expected, however, many women tell us that sensual sensation is usually enhanced. In all likelihood, you will not be able to breast feed in the future. Bandages applied after surgery are usually removed within a day or two. Patients will need to wear a bra for several weeks. Swelling and bruising are common and can take several weeks to fade. Pain medication will be prescribed to help manage discomfort. Patients typically feel well enough to return to work and other normal activities after about two weeks.
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Incisions are planned that outline the area of skin, breast tissue, and fat to be removed as well as the position for the nipple. |
Skin formerly located above the nipple is brought down and together to reshape the breast. Sutures close the incisions, giving the breast its new contour. |
Scars around the areola, below it, and in the crease under the breast are permanent, but ban be easily concealed by clothing. |
Frequently Asked Breast Reduction Questions
What is breast reduction?
Breast reduction, or reduction mammaplasty as it is also known, is a procedure which can reduce the size of very large, pendulous breasts. Breast reduction can also add firmness and shape to the breasts and, if necessary, reduce the size of the areolas. During the surgery, excess fat, glandular tissue and skin are removed. Breast reduction can alleviate a variety of medical problems associated with large or heavy breasts including back and neck pain, skin irritation, skeletal deformities and breathing problems.
Who is a candidate for breast reduction?
Candidates for breast reduction include women who are looking to reduce the size of very large or pendulous breasts. It's also important that breast reduction candidates be in good physical health, psychologically stable and have realistic expectations. It is often advised that surgery be postponed for women who are planning to breast feed in the future or for younger patients whose breasts are not yet fully developed.
What occurs during a consultation for breast reduction?
During the consultation for breast reduction, you will meet with either Dr. Duboys or Dr. Sirota. After carefully examining your breasts, the doctor will discuss your expectations and the possibilities available to you. All details of the breast reduction procedure will be explained and any questions that you have answered.
What form of anesthesia is breast reduction performed with?
General anesthesia is most often used during the breast reduction surgery.
Read more breast reduction questions
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