Breast Reduction

Breast reduction is a common surgical procedure that reduces breast size in women who experience pain, irritation and self-consciousness regarding their body shape. Also known as reduction mammaplasty, this surgery removes fat, skin and glandular tissue from the breasts, while lifting and reshaping them to exhibit a more youthful appearance.

Large breasts (also known as female breast hypertrophy or macromastia) can cause a variety of problems. Some of the most common issues associated with large breasts are the following:

Excess breast weight
Back, neck or shoulder pain
Shoulder grooves from bra strap
Restricted movement
Limited clothing options
Infection or inflammation in breast crease

Are You a Candidate For Breast Reduction?

If you have voiced complaints about one or more of the conditions listed above, you may be a good candidate for breast reduction. Good candidates healthy non-smokers who are capable of understanding the risks and benefits involved. For example, candidates should be aware of the possibility that breastfeeding ability can be disrupted and changes in nipple sensation can occur.

What Happens During Breast Reduction

There are several techniques to meet the needs of different patients. Dr. Ljung will choose a technique for you depending on your breast size and position. In some rare cases, liposuction alone can sufficiently reduce breast size. Most patients will benefit from a more extensive technique.

A typical breast reduction requires about to 4 hours under general anesthesia. Dr. Ljung makes a keyhole shaped incision around the areola, removes a significant amount of fat and glandular tissue from the breasts, and removes skin to shape and reposition the breasts. The incisions are closed with sutures and covered with gauze and tape.

After Breast Reduction: What to Expect

The recovery period is about 1 to 2 weeks, during which you will need to wear a special recovery bra to provide extra support. Surgical drains may be necessary to remove fluid during this time. You will likely experience some swelling, bruising and aching in your breasts. Discomfort can usually be managed well with pain medications.

Breast Reduction and Insurance Coverage

Because breast reduction is performed for therapeutic reasons, it is possible to get health insurance coverage for the procedure. Ask your health insurance policy for information about coverage. You may need to document health problems related to pain and other symptoms associated with macromastia.

Possible Complications / Side Effects

Like all surgical procedures, breast reduction some uncertainty and risk involved. Possible adverse events include but are not limited to bleeding, infection, unfavorable reaction to anesthesia, breast asymmetry, unsatisfactory aesthetic results, scarring and loss of sensation in the nipples. Ask Dr. Ljung for more details if you are concerned about complications of breast reduction.