Breast Reduction

Women commonly choose to undergo breast reduction surgery because the size and weight of their breasts is affecting their comfort and health. Breast reduction represents a means to an end to the physical symptoms and discomfort they have suffered with for years, and sometimes decades. These patients are usually the happiest in our practice as this drastic change in their breast size and shape results in a complete change in the perception of their own bodies. After surgery, these patients dress differently, become physically active, gain confidence and in general adopt a healthier way of life that leads to further weight lose and ultimate happiness.

The Best Candidates for Breast Reduction

Breast reduction is usually performed for physical relief rather than simply cosmetic improvement. Most women who have the surgery are troubled by very large, sagging breasts that restrict their activities and cause them physical discomfort. The best candidates are those who are mature enough to fully understand the procedure and have realistic expectations about the results. Breast reduction is not recommended for women who intend to breast-feed.

All Surgery Carries Some Uncertainty and Risk

Breast Reduction is not a simple operation, but it’s normally safe when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon. Nevertheless, as with any surgery, there is always a possibility of complications. You can reduce your risks by closely following Dr. Watkins advice both before and after surgery.

Preparing For Your Surgery

You’ll get specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications. You may plan to choose a healthy diet plan before the operation to loosen the skin for surgery. While you’re making preparations, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery and to help you out for a few days if needed.

Where Your Surgery Will Be Performed

Your surgery will be performed in our office-based outpatient surgical facility. An Anesthesiologist will be present to monitor you throughout surgery with all the state-of-the-art equipment necessary for your procedure

Type of Anesthesia

Breast reduction is always performed under general anesthesia. You’ll be asleep through the entire operation.

The Surgery

An anchor-shaped incision that circles the areola is made, extends downward, and follows the natural curve of the crease beneath the breast. Liposuction may be used to remove excess fat from the armpit area. In most cases, the nipples remain attached to their blood vessels and nerves. However, if the breasts are very large or pendulous, the nipples and areolas may have to be completely removed and grafted into a higher position. Stitches are usually located around the areola, in a vertical line extending downward, and along the lower crease of the breast. Liposuction alone can be used to reduce breast size, leaving minimal scars.

After Your Surgery

After surgery, you’ll be wrapped in an elastic bandage or a surgical bra over gauze dressings. A small tube may be placed in each breast to drain off blood and fluids for the first day or two. You may feel some pain for the first couple of days-especially when you move around. The bandages will be removed a day or two after surgery. Your stitches will be removed in one to three weeks.

Getting Back to Normal

Although you may be up and about in a day or two, your breasts may still ache occasionally for a couple of weeks. You should avoid lifting or pushing anything heavy for three or four weeks. Most women can return to work (if it’s not too strenuous) and social activities in a week. But you’ll have much less stamina for several weeks, and should limit your exercises to stretching, bending, and swimming until your energy level returns. You’ll also need a good athletic bra for support.

Your New Look

Of all plastic surgery procedures, breast reduction results in the quickest body-image changes. You’ll be rid of the physical discomfort of large breasts, your body will look better proportioned, and clothes will fit you better. Like most women, you’ll be pleased with the results.

Call 808-247-3737 today or request your FREE consultation online now!