Breast Reduction
While some women choose breast enhancement for cosmetic reasons, others experience physical discomfort and emotional challenges associated with overly large breasts. Breast reduction surgery can help create a more balanced, proportional appearance while relieving many of the physical symptoms that can accompany larger breasts.
At Mancoll Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery, we understand that every patient has unique goals and concerns. With a thoughtful approach to breast reduction, your surgeon can help reduce excess breast tissue, improve proportion, and enhance both comfort and confidence.
Ideal Candidates
The best canditates for breast reduction surgery are in good physical and emotional health. Candidates should have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve and are looking to improve or correct one or more of the following:
- Shoulder, neck, and back pain
- Excessive sagging or drooping of the breasts
- Bra straps digging into the shoulders
- Difficulty breathing
- Hand or arm numbness
- Self-consciousness related to breast size
Procedure
No single technique is appropriate for every patient, but most breast reduction procedures follow a similar approach. An incision is typically made around the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple, and extends downward along the natural curve of the breast. Through these incisions, your surgeon can remove excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin to reduce the size and weight of the breasts. The nipple and areola are then repositioned to a higher, more natural position, and the remaining breast tissue and skin are reshaped to create a more proportionate and contoured breast appearance.
Although breast reduction is considered a reconstructive procedure, its benefits extend beyond physical relief. In addition to helping alleviate physical discomfort, it may also improve confidence and emotional well-being.
Because every patient’s anatomy and goals are unique, your surgeon will discuss your options during your consultation and recommend the technique that is best suited to your individual needs.
Costs
There are several factors that determine the total cost of breast reduction surgery, including:
- Facility fees
- Anesthesia fees
- Surgical fees
- Prescriptions for medication
- Post-surgery garments
Breast reduction surgery is often covered by insurance when certain medical criteria are met. Our surgical coordinator will be happy to assist you with the insurance authorization process and request coverage for your procedure. If your breast reduction does not meet your insurance plan’s coverage criteria, the procedure may also be performed as a cosmetic, self-pay option.
Potential Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks associated with a breast reduction procedure, such as scars, infection, bleeding, asymmetries, postoperative discomfort, and adverse reaction to anesthesia. Although significant complications are uncommon, patients should understand that any surgery, performed for any reason, has risks and should not be taken lightly.
During your consultation and pre-operative appointment, your surgeon will take the time to thoroughly explain your procedure, discuss potential risks, and answer any questions you may have.
Recovery
Following breast reduction surgery, patients generally experience soreness, swelling, and bruising that may last up to six weeks. Pain and discomfort can typically be alleviated with prescribed pain medication. Strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for approximately six weeks. Swelling will gradually improve, with the final shape and results continuing to settle over the following months. Scars will also become less noticeable over time as they gradually flatten and fade. Your surgeon will provide specific postoperative instructions and help guide you through each stage of your recovery.
Results
After a breast reduction procedure, many patients experience improvement not only in their appearance and physical comfort, but also in their overall quality of life. The results of breast reduction are long lasting; however, breast size and shape may change over time due to weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or skin laxity associated with the natural aging process.
To find out more about breast reduction surgery, we welcome you to schedule a consultation by calling Mancoll Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery at (757) 305-9185 or filling out our online contact form. Mancoll Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery is proud to have been voted Coastal Virginia Magazine's Best Cosmetic Surgery Center for 12 consecutive years!
