Frequent Questions About Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammaplasty)
Below you will find a list of frequent questions about Breast Reduction. If you cannot find the answer you are looking for, please contact us and be sure to include the procedure name and your question!
How long does the procedure take?
Operating time is generally about two hours.
What form of anesthesia is used?
You will require general anesthesia, given by an expert anesthesiologist M.D.
(medical doctor). This will allow you to "sleep" throughout the entire procedure.
How is this procedure done?
Depending upon the condition and size of your breasts, there are various surgical options that are available. In most cases the nipple-areolar complex can be left intact and attached to the ducts, blood vessels, and nerves to help maintain function. In some cases the nipple-areolar complex is detached and re-applied as a graft. Most procedures include a peri-areolar excision of superficial skin that can be performed with "laser" as in the "Laser Bra " procedure, or can be done the traditional way with a skin splitting dissection technique with scalpel. Breast tissue excision, when necessary, can be performed surgically or with liposuction. In most cases, a peri-areolar scar as well as a vertical and horizontal scar is necessary in order to achieve the ideal breast contour.
Liposuction Breast Reduction
The almost "scarless" liposuction breast reduction has the advantage of a rapid recovery, almost no scarring (two or three 2-millimeter scars well hidden) and less likelihood of complications such as tissue loss, bleeding or infection as in the more traditional procedures. This new technique uses liposuction thru one small incision on each breast to remove as much of the breast fat and gland as is necessary for the desired final result. You may be a candidate for this procedure if your breasts are mostly fatty tissue, and you still have good skin elasticity. While this surgery is not for all large breasts, it does offer advantages over the standard breast reduction for a select population of large breasted women.
How do I prepare for my breast reduction?
During your initial preoperative visit with your surgeon, be prepared to give a
complete medical history including all your medications, allergies and previous
surgeries. You will undergo a through physical examination and blood tests. If
you are over age 50, an electrocardiogram may be taken. If you are over age 35,
a mammogram may be prescribed. Photographs, which do not include your face,
are important aids in planning and performing your breast reduction. They
become a permanent part of your patient record and are taken before and
several months after your procedure.
During your consultation, you will be given specific directions to help you prepare
for your procedure. Instructions generally include taking vitamins, cautions about
taking certain medication and drinking alcohol, the shaving process and use of
antibacterial soap. You must not eat or drink anything eight hours before your
procedure. Do not smoke ten days prior to and two days after surgery. If you take
daily medication, ask your surgeon if it is safe to take before your procedure. If
you have any sores on your body, if you have a cold, sore throat or allergic
condition, inform your surgeon so you may be examined prior to your procedure.
Can I return home the same day?
Generally breast reduction is done on an ambulatory basis but in some cases
may require an overnight stay. However, it is necessary that you have someone
to pick you up after the procedure, take you home, and stay with you for at least
24 hours.
How long before I can return to normal activity?
Most women return to their usual activities in one week. However, you must not
lift anything for the first two weeks and do no heavy lifting for the first four weeks.
Avoid raising your arms above your head for at least two weeks.
Click here to request a certificate good for a Free Breast Reduction Consultation and a chance to discuss your desired outcome with our surgeon.
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