SHOULD I GET A BREAST REDUCTION?

With over 100,000 surgeries performed annually, breast reduction is a common procedure. Breast reduction augmentation surgery is when a plastic surgeon removes excess fat, glandular tissue (including lobules or milk glands) and skin to reduce the size and weight of a woman’s breasts. At Ranch and Coast Plastic Surgery, we have talked to many women who wonder what procedure they need to remedy the aesthetics and even the pain that their bust may cause. A breast lift is recommended when women’s breasts are sagging typically due to age (gravity) or breastfeeding.

What is the difference between a breast reduction and breast lift?

A breast reduction reduces the weight and size of the breast as well as a lift. Most women get a breast reduction when their large breasts cause neck, shoulder, or back pain and inhibit their ability to exercise. Alternately, a breast lift raises the breasts by eliminating excess skin and reshaping the remaining breast tissue resulting in a more youthful and upright appearance.

SEE BREAST REDUCTION BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS

Who is a candidate for breast reduction?

Women whose over-sized breasts cause problems (also called symptomatic macromastia) often need surgical interventions to relieve the pain their large breasts cause. Most women we see experience neck, back and shoulder pain as well as chest wall pain, headaches, breast crease rashes and have bad posture all due to the burden of weight on their chest. These women often are unable to be as physically active as they would like, resulting in weight gain which just aggravates the problem.

What are the steps of breast reduction?

Breast reduction surgery is commonly done under general anesthesia and takes between 3-5 hours. Like breast lift surgery, breast reduction surgery is typically accomplished through one of three types of incisions.

1. Anchor – Three cuts are made including the circular, line down to breast crease and the in the breast fold. (most common)
2. Short Scar – Lollipop short scar in the breast crease
3. Lollipop – An incision is made around the areola and then down to the breast crease.

From the incision the breast tissue is reduced, lifted and shaped. Occasionally liposuction will also be utilized. The nipple is then moved to a position but stays attached to the breast to complete the aesthetics of the newly shaped breasts.

Ready to schedule a Consultation?

Most women feel relief right away after having breast reduction surgery. If you are struggling with physical and emotional pain due to overly large breasts, give Del Mar’s Ranch and Coast Plastic Surgery a call. Many insurance companies cover the cost of breast reduction surgery if other methods for relief have already been exhausted. Contact us today so that we can discuss your options and get you on the path to a more comfortable life.