Having very large breasts can negatively impact your life in a variety of ways. If you’re self-conscious about your breasts or experience uncomfortable symptoms, then a breast reduction can be a life-changing procedure.
What is a Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammaplasty, removes the excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin from the breasts. The goal is the reduce the size of the breasts as well as symptoms that come with having overly large breasts. It’s one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures performed each year and comes with one of the highest rates of patient satisfaction. Although it can be performed on its own, it can be part of a mommy makeover procedure or even combined with a breast lift.
Breast Reduction FAQs
Can breast grow back after reduction?
Can you drink alcohol after breast reduction?
How do I know if I need a breast reduction?
How long is breast reduction recovery?
At what age should you get a breast reduction?
Does breast reduction effect breast feeding?
Will insurance cover my breast reduction?
Is a Breast Reduction Right for Me?
If you have very large breasts that cause the following symptoms and occurrences, you may be a good candidate for breast reduction:
- Back pain and discomfort
- Difficulty being active or working out
- Difficulty finding clothes that fit
- Skin rash and chafing
- Bra strap indentations
- Physical and emotional discomfort
- Unwanted attention
In order to be considered a good candidate for breast reduction, your breasts should be finished developing. You should also have no further plans for children since pregnancy can impact your results. Weight fluctuations can also impact your results, so you should be at a healthy and stable weight. Most importantly, you should be in overall good health and have realistic expectations about what breast reduction can achieve.
Your Breast Reduction Procedure
Breast reduction is typically performed under general anesthesia. To begin, Dr. Trupiano will perform one of three incision patterns as discussed during your consultation:
- The periareolar incision (around the areola)
- The vertical incision (around the areola and down to the breast fold)
- The inverted T incision (around the areola, down to the breast fold, and along the inframammary crease)
Breast reduction can be performed in a few different ways, depending on your unique anatomy. Surgical excision can be used to remove breast tissue to decrease the size of the breasts. Liposuction can be used to remove fatty tissue to decrease the size of the breasts. In some cases, a combination of the two methods can be used. Once the underlying tissue has been reduced, Dr. Trupiano will excise extra skin and close the incisions.
Breast Reduction Results and Recovery
You’ll see results immediately after your breast reduction surgery, although it can take a few months for all swelling to subside. For the first 1-2 weeks, you should plan to rest and recover, avoiding any heavy activity or elevated heart rate. You can manage discomfort with prescribed medications and will be given a surgical bra to support your breasts, manage swelling, and alleviate pressure from your incisions. Dr. Trupiano will indicate when you can return to your regular activities – you’ll enjoy greater range of movement, better mobility, increased confidence, and fewer uncomfortable symptoms after your breast reduction procedure.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re ready to learn more about how a breast reduction can transform your lifestyle, our team can help. Contact our Troy, MI office by calling or filling out our online contact form to set up an appointment with our board-certified plastic surgeon and one of America’s Top Breast Surgeons, Dr. Trupiano.
