Who Is a Good Candidate?
A breast reduction can either be a necessary plastic surgery to reduce discomfort caused by large breasts, or it can be a cosmetic surgery to help those who do not suffer any discomfort but who are unhappy with the size of their breasts and would like to receive a breast reduction as an aesthetic procedure.
Regardless of the reason for having a breast reduction, at The Vu Center, we ask that all patients considering this procedure are in good health and have reasonable expectations about the procedure. Good candidates for this procedure are those who:
- Feel their breasts are too large
- Have breasts that limit their physical activity
- Have shoulder indentations from bra straps
- Experience back, shoulder, and neck pain caused by the weight of their breasts
- Have skin irritation beneath the breast crease
- Do not smoke
Preparing for the Procedure
The first step in any surgical procedure is to schedule an initial consultation with your surgeon. A consultation is a necessary appointment where the surgeon will go over the steps of the procedure, determine whether or not you are a good candidate, provide you with any options you have regarding your surgery, and allow you to ask questions so that you feel comfortable and confident with your decision.
During your consultation, one of our board-certified surgeons will examine your breasts and make measurements of the size, shape, and quality of your skin. This will help the surgeon determine the best way to go about performing the procedure to ensure optimal results.
Additionally, your surgeon may take pictures for your file so that you can compare how your breasts look before and after your procedure.
At the end of your consultation, your surgeon will provide you with a list of instructions that you should follow before your procedure. These instructions may include altering your medication, avoiding anti-inflammatory drugs, and other necessary steps that can prevent complications during your breast reduction procedure.
The Procedure Steps
When performing a breast reduction procedure, your surgeon has a few different options. First, the patient will be given a choice whether they want intravenous sedation or general anesthesia — your doctor will advise you on the best option for you. Once the medications are administered, the procedure can begin.
Prior to your surgery, your surgeon will discuss the different ways to perform the procedure and what option they feel will deliver the best results for you. The surgical techniques for a breast reduction are:
- Inverted T or “Anchor” – This technique requires the surgeon to make a total of three incisions: one incision around the edge areola, one incision from the base of the areola to the breast crease, and a final incision along the inframammary fold. The anchor technique is usually advised for patients who have a significant need for a breast reduction, as these incisions allow for more tissue removal and reshaping.
- Vertical or “Lollipop” – Often recommended for patients who require a more moderate breast reduction, the lollipop technique only requires the surgeon to make two incisions: one around the edge of the areola and one from the base of the areola to the breast crease. This technique easily allows the surgeon to remove excess fat while also lifting the breast into a more youthful position.
Both techniques leave minimal scarring that can easily be hidden with a bra or bikini top and will fade with time. Patients also have the option of combining a breast reduction procedure with a breast lift to achieve a more flattering shape and a more youthful position.
After the Procedure
Breast reductions are generally performed on an outpatient basis, meaning the patient will be allowed to go home later that same day. For this reason, it is required that all patients arrange for a friend or family member to take them home and help with recovery for at least the first day.
After your surgery, bandages or dressings will be applied to the incisions, and patients will be required to wear an elastic bandage or a support bra to minimize swelling and support their breasts during the healing process. Most patients can return to a desk job within the first week of their surgery. However, your surgeon may advise you to avoid exercise aside from walking for about three to four weeks.
Ready to Get Started?
At The Vu Center, our board-certified surgeons are dedicated to helping you feel comfortable in your own body, which is why we offer a variety of plastic and cosmetic surgeries to meet your needs. If you are considering a breast reduction or you have questions about the procedure, feel free to give us a call. We look forward to helping you!