Breast Reduction

Overview

Breast reduction, also known as reduction mamaplasty, is performed to reduce excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin to achieve a breast size more in line with the rest of the body and frequently to relieve the discomfort due to excessive weight.

Incision Patterns

A breast reduction can be acheived through a variety of incision patterns. Three of the more common incision patterns include: anchor, lollipo and donut. An anchor incision goes around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease as well as horizontally along the breast crease. A lollipop incision goes around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease. A donut incision simply goes around the areola. The appropriate technique for you will be determined based upon: your breast size and shape; the size and position of your areolas; the degree of breast sagging; as well as the amount of excess tissue, fat and skin to be removed and the quality of skin elasticity. Depending upon the breasts’ response to and recovery from the initial surgery, it is common to perform a touch-up procedure to reposition tissue and to strengthen the tautness of the skin.

Anesthesia

Anesthesia may be general, regional (spinal), and/or intravenous sedation in combination with local anesthesia in the area being treated.

Surgery Duration

The surgical procedure takes place over an average period of 90-120 minutes. If necessary, this period may be extended. However, the surgical procedure time should not be confused with the amount of time the patient will be in the operating room. That amount of time will also include the administering of anesthesia and postoperative recovery.

Hospitalization Period

Under normal circumstances, the hospitalization period is approximately 1 day.

Postoperative Care

Wear the post-op bra 24/7 for 30 days following surgery. Strenuous activity, exercise and lifting of objects over 5 lbs should be avoided for a month. Showering is allowed 48 hours after the procedure. No tub soaking, entering a swimming pool, hot tub, etc. while drains are in place and until your doctor authorizes. The scars are permanent and will lighten over time. Remember that your body needs to heal scar tissue, and that this process takes approximately 6 months.

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