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Breast Reduction
At a Glance
- Recovery: 1-2 weeks
- Cost: View Pricing
- Anesthesia: General
- In-Op Length: 2-4 hours
What is a Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is a procedure that reduces the size of your breasts and makes your breasts more proportional to your body. The goal is to make your breasts more proportionate to your body and habitus while reducing their size and weight. The result is relief of the issues associated with very large breasts. One can expect decreased back, neck, and shoulder pain. Grooving caused by bra straps cutting into the shoulders is ameliorated. Patients often experience an improvement in posture.
Breast reduction is sometimes considered a reconstructive plastic surgery procedure, which means it can sometimes be covered by your insurance company. Many patients experience stress caused by breasts that are weighing heavily on their body, causing back and neck pain and bad posture. Breast reduction surgery can provide you with relief from these symptoms and also improve the overall shape of your breasts as they will be smaller, firmer and ultimately lighter.
Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Reduction?
Candidates for breast reduction are healthy individuals and nonsmokers. If you do smoke, you must quit for a minimum of six weeks following surgery. Patients can benefit from breast reduction if they suffer from physical or emotional discomfort due to large breasts. Successful candidates are those who have realistic expectations about what can be achieved and are able to maintain a positive outlook. In order to maintain long-lasting results, patients should maintain their weight and not plan to get pregnant in the near future.
Customize Your Breast Reduction
The breast reduction procedure may be performed using a selection of techniques. The one that is right for you will depend on a number of factors, which your doctor will take into account. The techniques commonly used to achieve this procedure include the following.
Liposuction:
In some cases, a breast reduction can be performed with liposuction alone. This can help you achieve a subtle reduction that is less invasive and results in no scarring on the front of the breast.
Vertical/Lollipop Incision:
For a more moderate reduction and to improve sagging, patients might require the vertical/lollipop lift. In this technique, an incision is made around the areola and vertically towards the crease underneath the breast. This allows for the removal of excess tissue and skin and the re-positioning of the nipple.
Inverted-T/Anchor Incision:
The inverted-T/Anchor reduction allows for the most dramatic breast reduction and reshaping. For this technique, an incision is made around the areola, vertically towards the breast crease, and along the breast crease. This allows for the most significant tissue and skin reduction and can improve severe sagging and asymmetry.
Breast Reduction FAQs
Can you combine a breast reduction and lift?
How is a breast reduction and lift performed?
How is a Breast Reduction Performed?
How long does it take to recover from a breast reduction?
How long does a breast reduction take?
Can breast grow back after reduction?
Can you drink alcohol after breast reduction?
Do you lose feeling in your nipples after breast reduction?
Do you lose weight after breast reduction?
How can I reduce my cup size?
How do I know if I need a breast reduction?
How long does it take for swelling to go down after breast reduction?
How dangerous is breast reduction surgery?
How many cup sizes can you go down with breast reduction?
How do breast reductions work?
Preparing for Breast Reduction in Albany
Preparing for breast augmentation can be just as important as the surgery and recovery process when it comes to achieving your best possible results. During your consultation, Dr. Kayastha will give you specific and detailed instructions for your preparation. Some general considerations include:
- Stopping or adjusting medications, such as blood thinners, as needed
- Coordinating with a close friend, family member, or other caregivers who can assist you with transportation and care for at least 24 hours after surgery
- Purchasing and/or packing essentials like comfortable clothing, medications, books, magazines, and other types of entertainment for your recovery period
- Refraining from eating or drinking beginning at midnight before your procedure
Recovering from Breast Reduction
After breast reduction surgery, patients will need to wear a support bra to minimize swelling and help with the healing process. You can expect the most discomfort on the first day, but this can be minimized with prescription medication and the use of an ice pack. Swelling should continue to diminish over the course of your recovery. Once fully healed, you will be able to enjoy smaller, rounder, more symmetrical breasts. You can expect improved comfort when exercising, wearing the clothes you’d like, and during everyday activities.
Breast Reduction Results
Breast reduction results are immediately noticeable, though swelling will be present for several weeks. Because of swelling, the final results will not be seen until about six months after the procedure. However, many patients find that their breasts appear and feel natural about six weeks after surgery. A breast reduction will result in smaller, more proportionate breasts that are balanced with your frame.
Breast Reduction in Albany, NY
Breast reduction is a great way to meet your aesthetic goals and boost your confidence. To learn more about breast reduction, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kayastha in Albany, NY online today.
