Bilateral reduction mammoplasty (breast reduction) is among the top five most common plastic surgeries performed yearly in the United States. Reducing and reshaping large, pendulous breasts can alleviate uncomfortable physical and emotional symptoms in women with macromastia (enlarged breasts). Men with gynecomastia (overdeveloped breast tissue) or asymmetry may also seek the surgery.
Indications
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons follows specific criteria to determine if patients are eligible for a breast reduction including:
• Pain in the upper back, neck or shoulders
• Bra strap grooves in the shoulders
• Recurring rashes under breasts
• Headaches, arm pain
• Striae (stretch marks) on the breast
• Recurrent cystic breast infections
The Pedicle Method
The Pedicle Method is the most common technique and reduces size and volume of the breast and improves shaping while preserving both sensation and function. Several incision options are available, which will affect the size and location of the resulting scar. The nipple remains attached to your breast tissue (thus maintaining the option for breastfeeding) but is raised to a higher position on the breast. Surrounding skin and tissue is removed and shaped into a perkier, smaller breast. The remaining tissue is then sewn shut after being fit around your nipple in its new location.
Free Nipple Graft
If you have extremely large breasts (E cup and up) or serious medical conditions or are older--you may have to consider a free nipple graft technique. This is a faster, safer procedure with long-term ramifications like the inability to breast feed and possible loss of nipple sensation. Surgery begins with the nipple/areola being removed and set aside. Excess breast tissue and skin are then removed, and the remaining tissue is reshaped. Nipples are then trimmed and grafted back onto your newly shaped breast.
Liposuction
The last technique, liposuction, is a less invasive alternative. However, since breast tissue is composed of both fat and glands, most patients are not good candidates since this only reduces fatty tissue. Additionally, the nipple remains in its present location, so any appearance of drooping or sagging will not be completely corrected. On the positive side, the incisions can be concealed in the underarm, areola or crease of the breast.
Considerations
Many insurance carriers cover breast reductions, provided you meet certain criteria. Check your policy carefully and discuss your options with your physician.
Gaining or losing a substantial amount of weight after surgery can affect the results of a surgery.
There are no guarantees that you will be able to breastfeed after surgery.
Recovery
Recovery time varies for each patient. Most complications are minor, but additional risks are involved. Talk to your doctor and thoroughly understand the risks before undergoing the surgery.
Your doctor will prescribe medication that should help ease the initial pain and discomfort. Underwire bras should be avoided for at least one month and any heavy lifting or physical work should be restricted for a few weeks.
Driving will also be restricted for two to four weeks. By that time, many patients are able to return to work. Complete healing may take up to a full year.
Tags: breast tissue, after surgery, breast reduction, most common, nipple remains
