Reduction mammaplasty, also known as breast reduction, is the plastic surgery procedure through which the size of a woman’s breasts is reduced in order to ensure that her breasts match the proportions of her body.

Large breasts typically develop during the puberty stage in females, but they can also grow during the postpartum stage of pregnancy. Breasts may grow if a woman gains weight, if she is experiencing menopause, or without a specific cause.

Women who have large breasts experience a wide range of physical problems. They routinely suffer from pain in their shoulders and neck, in addition to crippling back pain. They are unable to exercise periodically, as the up-and-down motion of the breasts induces discomfort. Wearing bras can also be problematic, as the straps of a bra can cause discomfort by digging into the skin of the shoulders.

Overly large breasts can also affect women on an emotional level, making them feel terribly self-conscious and uncomfortable in social situations, especially when they are younger.

To alleviate emotional and physical issues associated with excessively large breasts, a breast reduction may be the ideal solution.

The Basics of Breast Reduction

The breast reduction procedure involves the removal of excess fat, skin, and/or glandular tissue from the breasts. This reduces both the volume and weight of the breasts. Before undergoing breast reduction surgery, you must clearly tell your surgeon where you would ideally want the areola and the nipple to be positioned.

Breast reduction is normally carried out to alleviate pain, particularly in the mid-to-lower back areas. This operation will reshape the breast tissue, and if sufficient tissue is removed, it will provide you with desirable results.

One of the primary goals of reduction mammaplasty is to develop a balanced appearance for the locations of the areolae and nipples while ensuring that the breasts continue to have the ability to lactate.

Details of the Breast Reduction Procedure

Breast reduction surgery typically takes about three to five hours and is performed with the assistance of a general anesthetic in order to avoid causing any discomfort or pain for the patient.

There are numerous methods through which breast reduction can be done. The most common methods are the donut incision technique, the lollipop incision technique, and the inverted-T incision technique. You will choose the ideal technique for you in conjunction with your plastic surgeon based on your medical history, the anatomy of your breasts, and your goals.

Situations In Which Surgery Cannot Be Performed

Breast reduction surgery cannot be carried out when the patient is lactating or has stopped lactating recently. It cannot be performed if the patient has any signs or symptoms of breast cancer, and most surgeons typically require a mammogram, especially for older females, that shows no signs of cancer. This mammogram should have been carried out at least a year before the scheduled date of surgery.

Learn More During a Consultation

Dr. Alexander Golger is an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon with a great deal of skill. To find out more about reduction mammaplasty surgery during a consultation, contact our office today.