For some women, very large breasts can prove burdensome. The excessive weight of large breasts can lead to a number of problems including back and neck pain, skin irritation, improper posture, and breathing problems. Many women with large breasts are very self-conscious, particularly younger women. For these women, surgical breast reduction can help.
Breast reduction, also referred to as reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure which makes the breasts smaller, lighter, firmer and more proportionate to the rest of the body by removing excess fat, tissue and skin.
Breast reduction is a good procedure for women who are bothered by very large, heavy or pendulous breasts. The surgery may be postponed in younger women until the breasts are fully developed or in women who are planning future breastfeeding. Dr. Roland will be happy to meet with you for a consultation in his Manhattan office to discuss your needs and how breast reduction can help you to meet your desired goals.
Dr. Roland may perform the breast reduction procedure in a hospital or outpatient facility in the New York City area. Surgical times average two to four hours and general anesthesia is commonly used. Traditionally, the incision for Mammaplasty is shaped like an anchor in that it circles the areola, extends downward and then ends as a horizontal line in the crease beneath the breast. Through this incision, Dr. Roland will remove excess fat, glandular tissue and skin. A second incision is often made around the areola so that it may be moved to a higher position.
Gauze dressings are applied to the breasts after surgery, and a sports bra will need to be worn for one month. If surgical drains are applied, they are removed within a few days. Some swelling, bruising and discomfort can be expected during the first few days of recovery. Numbness may also occur but will fade as the swelling subsides. Many patients find that they can return to work within one week.
Commonly Asked Questions Concerning Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty)
What can breast reduction do for me?
Breast reduction removes excess fat, tissue and skin to make the breasts smaller, lighter, firmer and more proportionate to the rest of the body. Breast reduction is sought by women with very large or pendulous breasts, often to alleviate physical symptoms such as back and neck pain, improper posture, skin irritation and breathing problems.
Dr. Roland is the best doctor ever. Not only did I get great results, I also felt as if I was part of his family. He gave me his cell number. Either him or his staff called me everyday to see how I was doing. I did my surgery with him after consulting with many other doctors. As soon as I met him I knew that he was different. He took his time to explain to me what he was going to do and why. He made me feel safe. Right before I went under anesthesia, he said to me “go to sleep I will take care of you” and he did. God bless those magical hands.
Am I a good candidate for breast reduction?
The best candidates for breast reduction are women with very large, heavy or pendulous breasts. Because there are many negative symptoms which may be associated with large or heavy breasts, candidates are often seeking relief from any or all of the following:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Breathing problems
- Improper posture
- Skin irritation
- Self consciousness
It is also very important that breast reduction candidates be in good general health and have realistic goals that they have discussed with their plastic surgeon.
Who should not consider breast reduction?
Women planning future pregnancy and breastfeeding may be advised to postpone surgery. In addition, younger patients may be advised to postpone surgery until the breasts are fully developed.
How is breast reduction performed?
Dr. Roland performs Mammaplasty in one of the New York City area hospitals or outpatient facilities under general anesthesia. Similar to other breast augmentation procedures in New York; surgical times average two to four hours. An anchor-shaped incision is commonly made which goes around the areola and down to the breast crease where it ends in a vertical line. Through this incision, excess fat, tissue and skin are removed. The nipple and areola may then be elevated through a second incision.
When the breast reduction surgery is complete, the skin is sutured closed and surgical tape is applied. The scar is permanent but will mature and fade with time.
What is the recovery from breast reduction like?
After breast reduction surgery, the breasts are wrapped with gauze dressings. You will need to wear a sports bra for one month. Surgical drains may be inserted after surgery and these are often removed after a few days.
Some bruising, swelling and discomfort can be expected but these side effects should fade in a few days. Some numbness may also be present in the breasts and nipples but this usually lessens as the swelling subsides. Many patients return to work within a week of their Mammaplasty.
Will I like the results of my breast reduction?
It is important to have realistic goals that you discuss with Dr. Roland prior to your surgery. This will help to ensure your satisfaction. However, mammaplasty produces immediate results and immediate relief from symptoms and, as such, is one of the most satisfying procedures for patients.
What are the risks of breast reduction?
Possible complications of breast reduction may include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Temporary or permanent numbness of the nipple and/or areola
- Uneven breast or nipple position or shape
- Poor healing
- Fluid buildup
- Breastfeeding complications
- Need for revision surgery
All risks and benefits of breast reduction will be discussed with Dr. Roland and his staff during consultation at his Manhattan office.
Related procedures: Gynecomastia surgery, Breast Lift.