Breast reduction surgery is a cosmetic procedure that removes the excess breast fat, skin, and glandular tissue to create a breast size that is in proportion to your body and figure. The procedure also helps to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with the weight of oversized breasts.
Breast reduction is usually associated with surgically reducing the size and weight of large breasts while at the same time creating aesthetically pleasing breast shape and contouring that is proportioned to the patient's body. By removing this excess skin and breast tissue, Dr. Jacono's board certified plastic surgery associate will improve your breast symmetry and firmness and lift your breasts to a more youthful position which will eliminate any breast sagging.
Aside from the alleviation of physical issues such as back pain, shoulder pain, and neck pain, there are other benefits to breast reduction surgery which include:
- Firmer and lifted breasts
- A more youthful appearance
- A better figure that is proportionate to your size
- Reduction of stretched out areolas and large nipples
- Looking better in clothing including swimsuits and other form-fitting outfits
- A boost in your self-confidence
Breast Reduction Surgery
Breast reduction surgery can be performed in several different ways and our surgeons will choose the best surgical technique that is right for you.
The three main techniques that can be used for your breast reduction surgery include:
- Liposuction Breast Reduction
- Vertical Breast Reduction (Lollipop Breast Reduction)
- Inverted-T Breast Reduction (Anchor Breast Reduction)
We will choose which technique we will use based on the extent of the procedure, the patient's body type, and their desired outcome.
Liposuction Breast Reduction
In some cases we will perform a breast reduction using only liposuction. This is a less invasive procedure and has some advantages. The scars from a liposuction breast reduction are virtually invisible and the results are long lasting. But this technique is only good for patients who require only a slight reduction in their breast size with very little sagging needing to be corrected. If you have larger sagging breasts with a significant amount of breast tissue to be removed, this form of breast reduction will not be right for you.
Vertical Breast Reduction / Lollipop Breast Reduction
This procedure is best suited for patients who require a moderate amount of breast size reduction and whose breasts are sagging. We will create two incisions for this type of breast reduction. One incision around the areola and another incision that runs vertically down from the areola to the crease located beneath the breasts. The incision is in the shape of a lollipop and is how it got its name. Once the incisions are made, we will remove the excess breast tissue and fat so that he can reshape the smaller breast internally. We then lift the breasts to their new position. There is some visible scarring from this procedure but it is limited to the vertical incision which can be hidden beneath a bikini top or a bra.
Inverted-T Breast Reduction / Anchor Breast Reduction
For the anchor breast reduction (inverted-T), we will create three incisions. The first two incisions mirror the vertical breast reduction with one around the areola and the other placed vertically below the areola extending down into the crease beneath the breast. The third incision will be made along the crease of the breast which forms the shape of an "anchor" and how it got its name. This breast reduction technique is best suited for patients that have a significant amount of breast tissue and fat to be removed as well as a considerable amount of sagging to lifted.
The scarring from this procedure is very similar to the vertical breast reduction with the addition of the extra scar located inside the crease. Most patients that follow the after-surgery care guidelines typically see the scars dramatically fade over the first year and is easily concealed under clothing.
Breast Reduction Recovery
Following your breast reduction surgery, your incisions will be bandaged and a surgical support bra will be placed over your chest. The support bra will help to keep the swelling down and offer support for the breasts as they heal. Many patients feel a considerable amount of soreness and discomfort for the first few days. Pain medication may be prescribed to help keep patients comfortable during the initial recovery period. It is recommended that ice packs be gently placed on top of the bandages to help with any discomfort you may be feeling.
Every patient heals differently so recovery time will vary patient to patient but most patients are able to return to light work duties and even drive. Physical and strenuous activities should be avoided for the first 3 to 4 weeks following your procedure. This will help the incisions to heal properly and ensure the best possible results.
Breast Reduction Surgery Candidates
Women who are suffering from overly large breasts that cause any physical or emotional pain may be a good candidate for a breast reduction surgery with our surgical center. Patients should be in generally good physical health and have realistic expectations for their surgical outcome. Women who smoke should be willing to give up smoking for a period of time prior to the reduction surgery as well as during the recovery process. During your consultation, we will discuss your issues and determine the best surgical combination to meet your desired goals.
To learn more about breast reduction surgery or to schedule your consultation with the New York Center for Facial, Plastic, and Laser Surgery, simply fill out our consultation form or call one of our offices today. Call 212-570-2500 to reach our New York City location or call 516-773-4646 to be connected to our Long Island office.