Breast Reduction

Many women experience daily discomfort associated with overly large breasts. Large breasts can cause improper posture, rashes, breathing problems, skeletal deformities, and pain. At the Thompson Center for Plastic Surgery, we believe no woman should endure the burdens of having extremely large breasts. Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammaplasty, removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to achieve an optimal breast size proportional with each patient’s body. If needed, Dr. Thompson may also reposition the nipple during the reshaping of the breast to ensure a proportioned result. Breast reduction surgery will give you the breast size that makes you feel confident, beautiful, and comfortable.

Breast Reduction Candidates

Candidates for breast reduction surgery wish to have firmer, more manageable breasts. The ideal candidates for breast reduction can relate to the following issues that arise from having large breasts:

• Neck and back aches
• Poor posture
• Difficulty breathing
• Deep grooves in the shoulders from bra straps
• Skin irritation under the breasts

Breast Reduction Incisions

Breast reduction is performed using general anesthesia. The following techniques may be used to reshape the breasts based on your individual needs:

• Keyhole (Racquet-Shaped) Incision: This technique involves creating a keyhole incision on the lower breast tissue and an incision around the nipple. This method is best for patients with moderately large breasts.
• Anchor-Shaped Incision: This technique involves creating an anchor-shaped incision that encircles the nipple, extends down the breast, and runs along the natural breast crease. This method is the most common because it allows for the most improvement.

The GalaFLEX® Mesh for Long-Lasting Results

Because the breast tissue tends to become compromised by age and loss of elasticity, many patients benefit from additional support. GalaFLEX® Mesh is a resorbable micro-filament scaffold that reinforces soft tissue and acts as an internal push-up bra, preserving breast reduction results from premature sagging. Dr. Thompson is a passionate advocate for the use of the GalaFLEX® Mesh to help maintain longer-lasting breast reduction results.

Recovery From Breast Reduction Surgery

After breast reduction surgery, you will be given specific instructions on how to care for your new breasts and what your temporary physical limitations and medications will be. During recovery, it is common to experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort that can be controlled with pain medications. You should try walking as soon as possible after your breast reduction surgery to promote healing and blood circulation. Plan to take approximately two weeks off work. It is also important to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for at least four weeks. You can ensure the best results and the shortest recovery time by carefully following your surgeon’s postoperative instructions.

Breast Reduction Results

Breast reduction results are typically permanent, but the breasts are still subject to the natural effects of aging, pregnancy, and weight gain. The reduction will be apparent immediately after surgery, but due to swelling and healing, the final results will take some time to show. The swelling can take up to a couple of months to diminish.

Risks and Side Effects of Breast Reduction Surgery

As with any surgery, there are some risks involved with breast reduction surgery. These include:

• Reactions to anesthesia
• Infection
• Bleeding or blood clots
• Poor wound healing
• Changes in skin sensation
• Scarring
• Damage to deeper structures
• Asymmetry

Breast Reduction Consultation

Dr. Thompson can help you determine whether breast reduction surgery is right for you during your personal consultation. If you are considering this procedure, please request your consultation with us by calling (732) 410-4789 or by completing our online contact form today.