Questions & Answers about Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammaplasty)
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What is breast reduction surgery and am I a good candidate for this surgery?
Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure designed to reduce the size of large breasts while also making them more proportionate and symmetrical to the rest of the body. Good candidates for this procedure are women with large, disproportionate breasts who may also experience pain, discomfort and embarrassment due to their breast size. Ideal candidates are women who are not pregnant or breastfeeding. This procedure is generally recommended for mature women with fully, developed breasts, although it can be performed on younger women if their breasts are causing serious pain and physical discomfort.
Will insurance cover this procedure?
Breast reductions may be covered by medical insurance if the purpose of the surgery is to alleviate physical discomfort and pain caused by oversized breasts. Many factors determine your eligibility, including the specific terms of your insurance and the amount of breast tissue to be removed.
When can I expect to return to work and resume my daily activities?
It is often possible to return to work within 1-2 weeks for most patients, depending on your job. Recovery times vary for each individual, although many patients can resume normal activities, including some form of mild exercise within a few weeks.
Will there be scarring?
Traditional breast reduction surgery will produce anchor-like scars that extend around the nipple, down the middle of the breast, and under the breast. Dr. Nein does not recommend avoiding a breast reduction surgery because of possible scarring, since the benefits usually outweigh the appearance of scars. Scars tend to fade over time and the scarring from breast reduction surgery is usually concealed under bras, bathing suits and low cut tops.
Will I still be able to breastfeed?
There is a chance that breastfeeding may not be possible after breast reduction surgery. This depends on the surgical technique used for the procedure and the number of milk ducts removed.
What are the major risks and complications of breast reduction surgery?
There is some degree of risk associated with all types of surgery. Potential risks of breast reduction surgery may include bleeding, infection, hematoma, adverse reaction to anesthesia, blood clots, loss of sensation, assymetrical breasts, nerve damage, and scarring.
How long will the results of breast reduction surgery last?
After breast reduction surgery, the breasts will remain smaller than they would be if the procedure had never been performed. Your breast size should remain fairly constant unless you gain or lose a significant amount of weight or become pregnant. The effects of aging and gravity may cause the breasts to sag over time.
Video Q&A’s about Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammaplasty)
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Is breast surgery risky?
Why don’t my breast sizes match?
Will breast procedures leave a scar?