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Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

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Surgical Procedures & Innovations Cosmetic Procedures


Breast Reduction

Breast reduction, or reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove excess tissue, fat, and skin from the breast. In most cases, candidates are women who experience medical problems because their breasts are excessively heavy. These conditions include back, neck or shoulder pain caused by the weight of the breasts; heavy, sagging breasts with low nipples and areolas; disproportionate appearance of the breasts in relation to the rest of the body; skin irritations beneath the breasts; restricted physical activity caused by heavy breasts; and asymmetry because one breast is larger in size than the other.

Breast reduction eliminates the physical and emotional discomforts of oversized breasts and results in a better proportioned body contour. Breast reduction is usually performed once a woman's breasts are fully developed. However, it can be done earlier if the patient is experiencing serious physical discomfort.

Techniques

There are several methods of breast reduction. Plastic surgeons at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital use the newest techniques of breast reduction (such as the vertical breast reduction method), which result in significantly less scarring than traditional techniques, and which leave a better breast shape. Your surgeon will discuss with you the recommended technique to give you the best result.

Anesthesia

Breast reduction is performed under general anesthesia.

Before Surgery

  • Avoid taking aspirin, Advil, Motrin, or other aspirin-containing products for two weeks.
  • If you are a smoker, stop smoking to aid in healing.

Recovery

  • Discomfort may require pain medication for the first few days.
  • You can return to normal activities in about two weeks, taking care to avoid strenuous activities.
  • Aching, swelling and bruising will subside after several weeks.
  • The final size and shape of the breasts will be apparent between 2 and 12 months after surgery.
  • While scars are permanent, they are covered by bras, bathing suits and clothing and may in time fade.
  • Breastfeeding may not be possible, as milk ducts are removed.
  • Sensation to the nipple and areola may be rarely affected.

Results

breast reduction
Pre-op		breast reduction
Pre-op
breast reduction
Post-op		breast reduction
Post-op

breast reduction
Pre-op		breast reduction
Post-op

breast reduction
Pre-op		breast reduction
Post-op



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