Breast Reduction Overview
Many women with large breasts can improve their health and their self-esteem with breast reduction surgery. No longer do these women need to endure the problematic symptoms associated with larger breasts: back pain, skin infections (from tight bra straps), and dermatitis between the breast folds.
This is a surgery Dr. Mountcastle provides in Ashburn, VA that reshapes the breasts to a smaller size. During the surgery by our plastic surgeon, breast tissue and skin are both removed. Each breast is then lifted and repositioned to be in proportion with the patient’s body. Women with heavier breasts also find this cosmetic procedure remedies extreme difficulties in exercise and feel they are less self-conscious because their breasts no longer take center stage
Breast Reduction Before and After*
See More ResultsSurgical Technique
During breast reduction surgery, surgeon skill is important. In addition to minimizing scarring, there will be a focus on maintaining a healthy blood supply to the nipple-areola complex. This is essential because once the nipple and areola are repositioned, blood vessels will work to reestablish blood flow in order to prevent discoloration of the nipple and loss of feeling. Excess breast tissue is generally removed through a liposuction method and loose skin will also be surgically removed.
Incision Placement
An “anchor” incision is one of the most commonly used techniques during this surgery. During this approach, an incision is made around the areola, which extends down to follow the natural curve and crease of the breast. It is also referred to as a vertical “T”. Once the breast is resized and reshaped, the nipple and areola will be repositioned and then the lift will be performed so the breast sits higher on the chest. The incisions will generally include absorbable stitches on the inside of the breast. There are variations to this incision pattern that can be used depending on breast size and aesthetic goals.
During/After Surgery
A breast reduction is performed under general anesthesia at an accredited surgical facility as an outpatient procedure. It typically takes about 2-4 hours to complete. During surgery, a training tube may be placed to control bleeding and swelling. For the first several weeks, patients will be directed to wear a surgical bra or compression garment. Most patients are able to return to work within 1-2 weeks, and may begin exercising by 4-6 weeks. The visible results of a breast reduction will be immediate. However, it may take 6 months or longer for nipple sensitivity to return.
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Breast Reduction FAQs
How long do breast reductions last?
The results following breast reduction surgery should remain the same as long as a significant amount of weight gain does not occur. The natural aging process and gravity will, over time, change the laxity of a woman’s breast, but the size should remain steady if there is not a pregnancy or weight gain that follows.
During a breast reduction, can the areola be addressed?
One of the drawbacks to having excessively large breasts is an enlarged areola (the slightly darker area surrounding the nipple). Thankfully, breast reduction surgery corrects this. Since the incision occurs around the areola, it is a relatively simple technique to trim away the desired amount of areola and reshape it into a smaller size so it looks proportional with the new breast size and shape.
What is the average reduction in size?
This varies depending on the patient’s aesthetic and physical goals. After breast reduction surgery, it is common to go down a complete cup size, if not two.
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