Are You a Good Candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery?

Are You a Good Candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery? : Breasts that are excessively large in proportion to the rest of the body can be difficult in a number of ways.

Physically, very large breasts (macromastia) can cause back and neck pain. The patient may have grooves in her shoulders from the weight of her breasts pulling on her bra straps. She may also find it difficult to find clothing that fits well. In addition, some physical activities may be limited for such an individual.

Psychologically, a patient with macromastia can suffer emotional distress and may feel stigmatized due to the size of her breasts.

For such patients, breast reduction surgery can be an option.

But, are you a breast reduction candidate? Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Breast Reduction Surgery?

During breast reduction, a board-certified plastic surgeon excises (removes) excess tissue, fat, and skin from the breasts. This results in a smaller cup size and usually an overall measurement around the breasts.

Is Breast Reduction the Same as a Breast Lift?

No, although most patients elect or require a breast lift along with her breast reduction surgery to achieve the most satisfying and aesthetically pleasing results, they are not interchangeable. Like he names imply, breast reduction reduces heavy breasts and breast lift surgery raises sagging breasts.

When performed alone, a breast lift does not impact the size of the breasts.

Who Is the Ideal Candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery?

The right breast reduction candidate:

Has breasts that are very large compared to her overall body size
Does not smoke
Experiences physical or emotional pain from having very large breasts
May have skin irritation in the folds under the breasts
Experiences a compromise of physical or social activities due to the size of her breasts
Is otherwise dissatisfied with the size of her breasts

How Is Breast Reduction Surgery Done?

The idea of surgery can be intimidating. However, an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon can put your worries at ease.

Steps of breast reduction surgery usually include:

You may be asked to have laboratory tests before the procedure
You will consult with your plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, plus realistic expectations
Your plastic surgeon will examine you, may take pictures, and will ask you questions about your health history
At the hospital or facility, you will be given general anesthesia (“sleeping” anesthesia)
An incision will be made around the areola, in a circular, “anchor” or T-shape
Excess skin and tissue will be removed
The tissue underneath the breast will be repositioned
Your nipples and areolas will be repositioned
The incisions are closed

What Is Recovery From Breast Reduction Surgery Like?

Breast reduction surgery is just that: surgery. While movement is recommended beginning immediately afterward in order to reduce the risk of blood clots, you will need to rest for about two weeks following your procedure.

You will be given compression garments to wear at home. Follow your doctor’s instructions exactly.

Make sure you attend all your follow-up appointments on time. Your doctor can tell you whether you’re on the right track, or can alert you to the possibility of warning signs, such as infection.

You may wear drains after your surgery. If so, follow your plastic surgeon’s directions on how to empty them. Do not excessively touch the area. Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling your drains per your doctor’s instructions.

What Are the Risks of Breast Reduction Surgery?

You and your plastic surgeon will decide whether you should have breast reduction surgery by weighing the benefits versus the risks.

Some risks of breast reduction surgery may include:

An allergic reaction to your anesthesia
An allergic reaction to the surgical tape
An asymmetrical result
Bleeding
Changes in sensation, which may be permanent
Damage to nerves or blood vessels
Damage to internal organs such as the lungs
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Infection
An overly-firm feel to the breasts
Scarring

Does Insurance Cover Breast Reduction Surgery?

Depending upon the extent of your macromastia, your insurance company may be willing to cover part of your surgery. Your physician will be asked to submit statements and pictures.

If your surgery is not covered by your insurance, ask your plastic surgeon about financing options.

Will I Need a Second Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction surgery is considered a permanent procedure. However, if you gain a moderate to excessive amount of weight in the future, your breasts may increase in size.

Patients who remain generally healthy and maintain their body weight do not usually need a revision to their breast reduction surgery in the future, except for procedures that address the natural aging process, which will continue.

Results of Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery can be a game-changer. You should feel emotionally better once you’re healed, and you may feel physically better once you are no longer carrying the weight of heavy breasts.

You may also find that you fit better in clothing, and that you are able to begin or resume some physical activities that were previously hindered by the size and weight of your breasts.

If you have any concerns, tell your doctor right away. He or she can help you toward the lifestyle you have been seeking to achieve, and more self-confidence than ever before.