What is involved in a breast reduction?

Breast reduction removes excessive breast tissue to help relieve symptoms from excessively large breasts. Additionally, Breast reduction can improve the size and shape of your breasts. The most common pattern for breast reduction uses are three incisions:

• One around the areola
• One vertically from the bottom edge of the areola to the breast crease
• One horizontally in the breast crease

Breast reduction is usually performed after breast development has stopped. Childbirth and breast-feeding may have significant and unpredictable effects on the size and shape of your breasts if it is performed before a woman has children. Nevertheless, many women decide to undergo breast reduction before having children and any subsequent changes later.

Who is a good candidate?

Good candidates are women who demonstrate:

• Breasts that are too large in proporation to a woman's body frame
• Back, neck and/or shoulder pain aggreviated by the weight of your breasts
• Indentions (grooving) in your shoulders from tight bra straps
• Restriction of physical activity due to the size and weight of your breasts
• Non-smokers
• Overall good health

What to expect during your consultation.

Dr. Stephenson will evaluate your overall health and more specifically evaluate your current breast size, breast shape and take measurements of the breast to help determine the amount of breast tissue that can be safely removed.  Additionally, Dr. Stephenson will evaluate the presence of any breast masses (if any)and your body shape in proportion to your breasts.  This evaluation will help him to develop your individual plan. He will also review the risks involved in breast reduction surgery. Dr. Stephenson encourages you to discuss any areas of your appearance that concern you as well what you hope to accomplish with surgery.  This will help him understand your goals/expectations and whether these expectations can be realistically achieved.

Breast reduction Recovery

At the completion of your breast reduction surgery, you will be placed in a surgical dressing that may include a support bra.  Swelling is expected after breast reduction surgery. The swelling will start to resolve during the first week or two after surgery, although this will vary between patients. Usually patients may return to work within a week after surgery.  Most patients can resume modest activity in two weeks.  Complete recovery occurs in about six weeks.

View 3D Animation of Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast Reduction

 

BREAST SURGERY CREDENTIALS

Credentials matter. Dr. Stephenson is certified by American Board of Plastic Surgery. This is the only medical specialty board for aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS).

Dr. Stephenson will be happy to discuss how a breast reduction may be beneficial to you.  To schedule a consultation with Dr. Stephenson at Signature Plastic Surgery, call (770) 466-4700.