Also known as reduction mammaplasty, breast reduction removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with your body and to alleviate the discomfort associated with overly large breasts.
If You're Considering Breast Reduction...
Women with very large breasts may experience a variety of medical problems caused by the excessive weight. Back and neck pain, skin irritation and skeletal deformities are common physical ailments. Unusually large breasts can also make a woman or a teenage girl feel extremely self-conscious. Breast reduction, technically known as reduction mammoplasty, is designed for such women.
A breast reduction involves the removal of fat, glandular tissue, and skin from the breasts, making them smaller, lighter, and firmer. It can also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple. The goal is to give the woman smaller, better-shaped breasts in proportion with the rest of her body.
Breast reduction is usually performed for physical relief rather than simply cosmetic improvement. Most women who have the surgery are troubled by very large, sagging breasts that restrict their activities and cause them physical discomfort. The best candidates are those who are mature enough to fully understand the procedure and have realistic expectations about the results.
Planning Your Surgery
In your initial consultation with Dr. Anigian, he will examine and take measurements of your breasts. He will discuss the variables that may affect the procedure, such as your age, the size and shape of your breasts, and the condition of your skin. He will also discuss where the nipple and areola will be positioned; they'll be moved higher during the procedure. It is important to discuss your expectations openly. Every patient and every physician has a different view of what is a desirable size and shape for breasts.
Initially the procedure does leave noticeable scars. However they will begin to fade shortly after your procedure and can be easily covered by your bra or bathing suit.
Once you have scheduled your surgery you will get specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications. Smoking, in particular, can increase the risk of poor healing and wider scars. Additionally, depending on your age and family history, Dr. Anigian may require you to have a mammogram before surgery.
The Surgery
Techniques for breast reduction vary, but the most common procedure involves an anchor-shaped incision that circles the areola, extends downward, and follows the natural curve of the crease beneath the breast. Excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin are removed, and the nipple and areola are moved to their new position. The nipples remain attached to their blood vessels and nerves.
After Your Surgery
After surgery you may feel some pain for the first couple of days and a small tube may be placed in each breast to drain off blood and fluids. Although you may be up and about in a day or two, your breasts may still ache occasionally for a couple of weeks. You should avoid lifting or pushing anything heavy for three or four weeks. Much of the swelling and bruising will disappear in the first week, but it may be six months to a year before your breasts settle into their new shape. Dr. Anigian will give you detailed instructions on resuming your daily activities.