Breast reduction

WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE?

Breast reduction is an excellent procedure for patients with large, heavy breasts, who also have problems with skin irritation, back pain, and problems with exercising and finding clothing that fits well.

THE PROCEDURE

Breast reduction procedures are done under general anesthesia at an outpatient surgical facility. The surgery itself takes about 1½ hours and the patient will go home the same day. Incisions typically consist of an "anchor pattern" scar also known as the Wise pattern. There will be an incision all the way around the nipple, traveling vertically downward across the breast, and along the underside of the breast. If a patient wants additional liposuction of the bra roll and anterior armpit area, this is done through a 3mm incision hidden in the hair bearing part of the armpit. Breast reduction does lift the breast as well. Most patients do not need surgical drains, however if the amount of tissue removed is >750 grams, we may consider leaving a drain to help speed up the recovery process and prevent complications such as fluid accumulation.

RECOVERY

Patients are wrapped in a compressive ACE wrap with gauze padding and permitted to remove this in 48 hours to shower. After that, either the ACE wrap or a front closure tight sports bra must be worn 24/7 for 4-6 weeks. All incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures and skin glue, so there is no need to remove any sutures or staples. The breasts typically remain in a higher position for about a month then will start to "settle" into place over the next several months. Patients should avoid any overhead reaching for 1-2 weeks after surgery and avoid lifting anything more than 5lbs. and high-end exercise for 4-6 weeks after surgery. Patients can usually drive after 1 week or when they are off prescription pain medications. Those with sedentary positions may consider going back to work after 2 weeks if they can avoid heavy lifting, and those with jobs involving heavy lifting should plan to take the full 4-6 weeks off. Patients may be fitted for a bra 6-8 weeks after surgery.