After
Before
A breast reduction is a surgical procedure where extra breast tissue and skin are removed to make the breast smaller, lighter, and more lifted. The goal is to relieve any symptoms you are having that are related to having large breasts and to achieve the improvement in appearance that you are seeking.
Breast reduction is a very common surgery and has one of the highest degrees of patient satisfaction. A breast reduction can be made for medical or cosmetic reasons. Chronic back pain, bra strap grooving, and rashes under and between your breasts are medical reasons to consider a breast reduction. If you simply don’t like your large breasts and wish they were smaller or more appropriate size for your body or your desired style, then that is a good reason too! The good news is that we can fix these problems with a breast reduction. Say hello to the new you!
For the most part, there is no definite cause that makes one woman have larger breasts than another. However, there are a few factors that can make you more likely to have larger breasts.
Hormones– Hormones are obviously a big factor. Your breasts grow during puberty and during pregnancy, which happens as a response to the hormones in your body. Some women’s breasts are more responsive to the hormones than others, leading to size differences.
Genetics– Genetics also play a role. You may find that large breasts “run in the family.”
Weight changes– Breasts are made up of both breast tissue and fat, so if you gain weight, your breasts will likely grow too.
Medical– There can sometimes be a medical cause, such as medications that you take.
During the initial consultation, you will be asked about your medical history to ensure you are in good health and a candidate for breast reduction surgery. You will then discuss a breast reduction specifically and your goals. Dr. Mason will examine you, take measurements, and discuss the right surgery for your body. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all, Dr. Mason will customize a plan just for you.
Expect a mixture of anxiety and excitement, both are normal. Remember, you’re doing something for yourself, and you should feel excited! You will have a scheduled arrival time on the day of surgery. The Surgery Center team will be expecting you and check you in upon arrival. Please do not eat the morning of surgery. Dr. Mason will come to talk to you before surgery and mark your skin where the incisions will be, as discussed in your treatment plan. You will be able to talk about this, ask questions, and agree on it together. She will make sure there have been no changes to the original plan. You will also meet your anesthesiologist. From there, you will go back to the operating room, and the anesthesiologist will put you to sleep. This is where you say goodbye to your heavy breasts and look forward to waking up lighter! The surgery can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your customized surgery plan. After the surgery is completed, you’ll be taken to the recovery area, and once you are released, you will be ready and able to go home the same day. While you are taking narcotics pain medication, you will not drive, so you will need to arrange for someone to pick you up from the surgery center. This is a good time to switch your mindset to “let them look after me for a while,” as you will need your rest.
You will see results immediately. Keep in mind that your body will continue to improve as it heals for the next several months. Swelling and discomfort will, of course, vary, but the recovery rules apply to everyone. You will need to rest and take time off work. This will be about two weeks for most people. It may be as much as six weeks before you are fully recovered and back to your normal routine. This is the time for you to relax, heal, and take care of yourself.
Do celebrate your decision. Do enjoy your new breasts. Do allow your confidence to skyrocket. Do take time to heal and take care of yourself properly. Don’t push yourself too hard. Don’t skip scar care.
A breast reduction will not prevent or cause problems with you getting pregnant. However, if you do get pregnant, your breasts may grow again. Some women even need a second breast reduction surgery. But this may be a risk worth taking to improve your quality of life right now.
The good news is that the breast reduction surgery usually leaves enough breast gland tissue that you will still be able to breastfeed. There is no change in the percentage of women who can breastfeed after reducing the percentage of the general population who can breastfeed. Of course, there is a chance of this being disrupted with any breast surgery, but the odds are in your favor!
Yes, you can often have a breast reduction with another procedure. Talk to Dr. Mason to help make the surgical plan that is best for you. Some women may wish to have a tummy tuck, thigh lift, or a facial procedure done. And of course, if you want any sort of facial injectables such as fillers or Botox this can be done while you are sleeping. At Perspectives Plastic Surgery, our goal is for you to have the body you’ve always wanted and the confidence to match. There are many options to achieve this. Talk to Dr. Mason about your goals!
$8,000 to $12,000 or covered by insurance.