Breast Surgery
Breast Reduction (Mammaplasty)

What Is Breast Reduction?

Breast Reduction, or reduction mammaplasty, is for a woman experiencing health problems and/or extreme self-consciousness associated with very large, heavy breasts. The goal is to create a more attractive contour with smaller, better-shaped breasts in proportion with the rest of her body. These patients will then benefit from freedom of health problems associated with large breasts and an improved self-image.

This procedure is commonly covered by insurance. Our staff will assist you in obtaining pre authorization.

The Procedure

Breast Reduction is done under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis, occasionally in the hospital. The surgery removes fat, glandular tissue, and skin from the breasts, making them smaller, lighter, and firmer. It can also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple. The result may be further enhanced by Liposuction of the axillary area to reduce excess fat deposits.

Incisions are made around the pigmented nipple-areolar complex, and extend vertically below the nipple and in the fold under the breast. The nipple-areola complex is moved upward to the desired location. The incisions are covered with a light dressing.

Afterward, the breasts are placed in a surgical bra that will provide support during initial healing. Initial discomfort subsides rapidly, and can be controlled with oral medications. Scars will fade over 6-18 months. The ability to breast-feed may be affected by this procedure.

Recovery

When performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, Breast Reduction is a safe procedure. Nevertheless, as with any surgery, there is always a possibility of complications. These include bleeding, infection, or reaction to the anesthesia. You can reduce your risks by closely following your physician's advice both before and after surgery.

Much of the swelling and bruising disappears in the first week following the surgery. The shape of the new breasts will be apparent within 6 months to a year, and will depend on hormonal fluctuations, weight changes, and pregnancy.

Although Dr. Cambre will make your scars as inconspicuous as possible, some permanent scarring is inevitable. Smokers are more likely to experience poor healing and wider scars. The scars may be red and firm in the months following the surgery, but the redness will fade and in time, the scars will be less obvious. The good news is, your bra or bathing suit will cover whatever scars remain, and most likely, the scars will not prevent you from wearing low-cut tops.

Ability to Breast Feed

Because the surgery removes many of the milk ducts leading to the nipples, breast-feeding ability may be impaired.

Some patients may experience a permanent loss of feeling in their nipples or breasts. Rarely, the nipple and areola may lose their blood supply.

The End Result

Breast Reduction produces the most dramatic results of all plastic surgeries. It ends the physical discomfort or large breasts and makes your body appear more evenly proportioned. Clothes fit better. Your new image will take some getting used to, as much as you desired the change. Give yourself - and your family and friends - time to adjust to the new you, and like most women, you will enjoy the benefits.