Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure designed to remove excess glandular tissue and skin to achieve a breast size proportionate to the body and to alleviate discomfort associated with overly large breasts. Large, dense breasts can cause strain on the neck and upper back muscles causing chronic pain. Additionally, excess moisture accumulation underneath the breasts can lead to rashes and skin breakdown. Insurance companies will often consider covering the cost of breast reduction surgery because of the medical problems large breasts can cause. Decreasing the size of your breasts does not mean your breasts need to look small and deflated. Dr. Hill uses various techniques to greatly improve the overall appearance of your breasts, while also providing relief from your symptoms. Instead of creating a specific cup size, as the breast tissue is reduced, the new breast size is matched to an individual woman's body to create a balanced form.

Incision Techniques

To address the skin and glandular tissue excess in large breasts, most commonly, an anchor style, or inverted-T, incision is made. An incision is made around the areola, vertically from the areola down to the fold beneath the breast (infra-mammary fold), and along the infra-mammary fold. This incision pattern allows for removal of excess tissue while reshaping the remaining breast tissue to create a more natural and aesthetically pleasing contour. In addition, the nipple-areola complex is repositioned higher and more centralized on the breast to create a more youthful appearance.

Who is a candidate for a breast reduction?

Breast reduction surgery offers significant benefits for those experiencing physical discomfort from the size of their breasts. Patients who experience chronic neck, back, or shoulder pain are candidates for a breast reduction. In addition, patients who develop skin irritation, indentations from bra straps, or have difficulty engaging in physical activity and exercise, as a result of large breasts, are also candidates for a breast reduction. By removing excess tissue and reshaping the breasts, the procedure can enhance comfort, physical ability, and improve self-esteem.

Postoperative Recovery

Recent studies have shown that patients have the same postoperative outcomes both with and without the use of drains. Typically, we do not utilize drains, which are typically difficult to manage and cause discomfort during the early postoperative recovery phase. It is important, however, to wear a compressive bra for four to six weeks following surgery to minimize swelling and fluid collections beneath the skin. For the first week or two after surgery, patients should avoid lifting over 5-10lbs and strenuous, repetitive activities. At three weeks postoperative, patients may begin light cardio activity and gradually increase to normal activities over the following several weeks.