Breast Reduction
Some women are born with breasts that are much too large for their body frame. Overly large breasts can cause back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, and improper posture. For some women, having large breasts also affects their self-esteem and self-image.
If you are suffering from low self-esteem or body pains due to overly large breasts, breast reduction surgery may just be what you need. Many women who undergo a breast reduction find they are able to lead a healthier, more comfortable life, in addition to enjoying natural-looking breasts that are more proportionate to their bodies. At Plastic Surgery Affiliates, we've had patients who've never worn anything but baggy clothing put on a swimsuit and fitted tops for the first time in their adult life after undergoing a breast reduction.
Procedure Description:
Reducing the size of the breasts.
Who is a Good Candidate for a Breast Reduction?
You might benefit from a breast reduction if you are experiencing any of the following problems:
| • | Back, neck, or shoulder pain. |
| • | Painful bra strap marks and/or rashes as a result of large breasts |
| • | Heavy, sagging breasts |
| • | Breasts that are too large/disproportionate for your body size/frame. |
| • | Irritation and/or rash beneath your breasts. |
| • | Difficulty exercising or participating in physical activity because of the weight and size of the breasts. |
| • | If one breast is noticeably larger than the other breast. |
This surgery is not recommended for anyone who plans to breastfeed, as the milk ducts leading to the nipples will be removed.
What To Expect:
Breast reduction patients are among our happiest. The relief of neck and shoulder pain is immediate. Generally patients stay one night in the hospital and only use pain medicine for a few days. Most women are back to work in 1-2 weeks. There will be scarring; however, the scars will fade over time. Although they will not totally disappear, they can be covered with a bra, swimsuit, or low-cut top. A majority of the time, this surgery is covered by insurance policies.
Preprocedure:
During your consultation, the details of the procedure will be discussed and you will be shown before/after photos.
Procedure:
The procedure itself tends to take about 2-4 hours, and involves removing fat, excess skin, and glandular tissue from the breast. After skin, fat, and tissue is removed, Dr. Hueneke tightens the skin to produce smaller, lighter, and firmer breasts that are proportionate to your body.
Post procedure:
The day following your surgery you will go home wrapped in an elastic bandage that you will need to wear for 2-3 days. A little pain after surgery is normal, as is swelling, bruising, numbness, and sensitivity. Some patients require surgical drain tubes left in place for a few days. Most patients are required to a wear a surgical bra for about a month, but are usually able to return to work within two weeks of surgery. Patients should not lift anything heavy for three to four weeks. Contact with the breasts should be avoided for six weeks.
If you are interested in learning more about the breast reduction procedure, please contact Plastic Surgery Affiliates to schedule your consultation with Nashville plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Hueneke.