What is breast reduction?

Breast reduction surgery is designed to treat large, heavy breasts. The goals of a breast reduction are to alleviate the discomfort associated with large breasts and to restore proportionate size, shape and position of the breast. Large, heavy breasts can be both painful and aesthetically displeasing. Your surgeon will discuss your symptoms as well as your desired breast shape and size.

How long will the results last?

The results from a breast reduction should be long lasting. Once corrected, the breasts should remain relatively stable, assuming weight does not fluctuate greatly. Maintaining a stable, healthy weight can help you retain your results. Over time skin inelasticity due to aging and gravity may make another procedure necessary to retain the desired results.

What are the risks of breast reduction?

Each year thousands of women undergo successful breast reduction surgery, experience no major problems and are happy with the results. Significant complications from breast reduction are infrequent. However, our goal at FORM Face + Body is to make sure you understand what this surgery involves, including possible risks, complications and follow-up care. Breast reduction surgery poses various risks, including:

• Diminished sensitivity or permanent loss of sensation in the nipples or areas of breast skin
• Irregularities or asymmetry in the shape and size of the breasts
• The areolas (the pigmented area around the nipples) may appear uneven
• Irregularities or asymmetry in the shape and size of the breasts (This could occur as a result of changes during the healing process, or surgery might not successfully correct pre-existing asymmetry)
• Rarely, the blood supply to the nipple or areola is interrupted during a breast reduction. This can damage breast tissue in the area and lead to the partial or total loss of the nipple or areola
• Rarely, poor healing can cause scars to become thick and wide
• Difficulty breastfeeding

Your consultation with your surgeon is designed to maximize your outcomes and minimize complications by ensuring that the appropriate procedure is selected and that you have a full understanding of your pre and post-operative instructions. Our office is a constant resource for you in this regard and will carefully guide you through this exciting experience.

What are my breast reduction options?

Many different techniques can be used during breast reduction surgery. Through a comprehensive examination that includes detailed measurements and 3D VECTRA photographic analysis, your surgeon will determine the best technique for you.

Incisions may be made in one of three ways:

• Around the areola
• Vertically downward from the bottom edge of the areola to the crease underneath the breast.
• Horizontal beneath the breast and follow the natural curve of the breast crease

After your surgeon has removed the excess breast tissue and skin, the nipple and areola are shifted to a higher position. The remaining breast tissue is then rearranged to provide a proportional and aesthetically pleasing shape.