Breast reduction is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin from breasts, fat and glandular tissue to improve the shape and size of oversized breasts. The size of the areola is also usually reduced during breast reduction surgery. This procedure decreases the volume and weight of the breasts so that they are more proportional to the rest of the body and to improve the quality of life of the patient.
This procedure is ideal for patients who wish to alleviate the physical and emotional discomfort caused by overly large breasts. If you have one or more of the following problems as a result of the size of your breasts, breast reduction surgery may be right for you: back or neck pain, slits of the bra strap on the shoulders, difficulty or pain when participating in physical activities, irritation of the skin around or between the breasts, skeletal deformities, respiratory problems or unwanted attention.
Before
After
Breast reduction surgery is usually done through incisions in your breasts with surgical removal of excess fat, glandular tissue and skin. In some cases, excess fat can be removed through liposuction along with the excision techniques described below. If the size of the breasts is largely due to adipose tissue and excess skin is not a factor, liposuction can only be used in the procedure for breast reduction.
This procedure can be performed at any age, but it is recommended that the patient's breasts be fully developed before considering surgery.
A breast reduction will elevate the breasts very slightly, but those with too large and drooping breasts may generally benefit from a breast lift combined with a breast reduction.
The results and benefits of breast reduction will be long lasting, as long as the patient maintains a stable weight. Patients can enjoy the continued relief of physical and emotional discomfort as their breasts age naturally over time.
