A breast reduction is a procedure that addresses symptoms of back, neck, shoulder pain and rashes within the breast folds, all attributed to a large breast size. Breast reductions also have the added benefit of lifting the breasts, resulting in improved aesthetic appearance.
Why get a breast reduction?
Large, sagging breasts can be detrimental to physical health and a patient’s body image. A breast reduction can help reduce symptoms caused by large breasts, such as poor posture, back pain, and neck discomfort.
Many health insurance plans cover breast reduction surgery. Your plastic surgeon may need to obtain authorization from your insurer for the surgery. This may require a letter and the submission of photographs. Once an authorization is obtain, you’ll be able to schedule your surgery. You may be responsible for any co-pays or deductible required by your insurer.
If your health plan doesn’t cover breast reduction, you can decide to pay for the procedure by yourself.
What happens during a breast reduction?
During a breast reduction procedure, your surgeon will make incisions on your breasts to remove excess breast tissue and tighten the loose breast skin. In some cases, liposuction is performed in conjunction with the reduction to further transition and refine the breast contours, particularly at the outer tail of the breast. This procedure is done under general anesthesia, as an outpatient procedure.
There are different types of incisions that can be used, based on your goals and Dr. Dodde’s advice.
After completion of the breast reduction, the incisions are repaired with dissolving stitches and the patient is placed into a surgical bra. The patient can frequently resume showering in 48 hours after surgery.
Breast Reduction Results and Recovery
Full recovery from a breast reduction typically takes between 2-4 weeks. You may experience swelling, bruising, and slight discomfort, but Dr. Dodde will provide you with a list of post-op instructions to ensure proper healing. Dr. Dodde will also let you know when it is safe to resume normal activity.
Results can be visible immediately and improve over time. After a breast reduction, many patients gain the confidence to wear clothing styles that they previously avoided, instead of hiding behind oversized clothing. They will also be able to enjoy exercising without being physically hindered by heavy breasts.
The ability to breastfeed after a reduction mammoplasty is frequently not impaired. Changes in the breasts from pregnancy can alter the outcomes of previous breast reduction surgery, as can significant weight changes.
Who makes a good breast reduction candidate?
You may be a good breast reduction candidate if you have the following traits:
- You are in reasonably good health
- You have realistic expectations for the outcome of your surgery
- You are in an emotionally stable state of mind
- You accept the potential risks
- You accept insignificant asymmetries
- You do not smoke
- Your breasts are fully developed
- You have breasts that limit your physical activity
- You have indentations from bra straps
- You have skin irritation beneath your breast crease