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Dr Tim Neavin
Surgery with Symmetry
Dr Tim Neavin

Breast Reduction Surgery in Santa Barbara CA

In general, mammary hyperplasia or large breasts are a hereditary condition that has its onset in adolescence and fully matures in the patient’s early 20s. Large breasts may be aesthetically displeasing, as well as functionally limiting, sometimes accounting for significant neck and shoulder pain, under-breast inflammatory changes and economic strain in specialized undergarment support wear. Cosmetic breast concerns are purely for the aesthetic appearance and proportion of the breast, which may be excessively large for the patient’s figure, shape and form, but are not generally symptomatic.

Before and After Photos

Incision Options

There are several different breast reduction techniques, the most common being an approach that requires an incision around the areola and a vertical incision extending under the breast. This lollipop incision, or short scar breast reduction, minimizes unattractive scars that can sometimes occur in more extensive breast reduction surgery. Very large breasts do require formal, under the breast scarring to allow for the removal of additional tissue and to provide more enhanced proportion for patients with larger breasts. This combination of incisions is often referred to as an anchor lift, inverted T, or Weis pattern. All techniques will provide the patient with reduced breast size and alleviate discomfort they may be experiencing from having large breasts.

Candidates

If your breasts are very large in proportion to your body frame, or they are different in size, you may be a good candidate for a breast reduction. Breast reduction surgery also benefits those who are experiencing shoulder and back pain due to the large size and weight of their breasts. It can also help those who have skin irritation underneath large breasts.

Excessively large and disproportionate breasts can cause self-consciousness and discomfort, and these are situations when a breast reduction is a good idea. Breast reduction is a procedure that can be performed at any age. However, most plastic surgeons prefer that you wait until your breasts have fully developed. If you plan on having children and breastfeeding, you should discuss this with your doctor, as those activities can impact the size and shape of your breasts.

Dr. Neavin will determine whether or not you are a good candidate for a breast reduction by examining and speaking with you about the size and shape of your breasts and what you wish for them to look like. This way, he can properly evaluate your expectations and make sure that they are reasonable for a breast reduction procedure.

It is essential that patients refrain from smoking for a minimum of four weeks prior to breast reduction surgery to reduce risks of poor healing. In addition, all nicotine products such as gum, patches, and vaping must also be avoided.

Recovery After Reduction Surgery

Don’t let heavy, pendulous breasts get in the way of your self-confidence or your daily life. To learn more about the benefits of breast reduction, contact Dr. Neavin today at 310-858-8811 text 323-975-1287.

FAQ

What is a breast reduction?

A breast reduction is also called reduction mammoplasty. It is a procedure to reduce the size of the breasts, including the areola, and often lift the breasts to make them perkier. It is performed under general anesthesia.

Why would I want a breast reduction?

While many women seek a plastic surgeon to enlarge their breasts, other women desire them to be smaller. Large breasts can be a nuisance for women who experience the emotional and physical discomfort they can harness. For many women with very large breasts, the surgery can be life-changing. It can alleviate back pain and rashes, and can be emotionally gratifying for those that do not enjoy the unwanted attention that large breasts can generate. Smaller breasts make life easier for some and improve the ability to exercise and lose weight.

Am I a candidate for breast reduction surgery?

Ideal candidates for breast reduction meet one or more of the following criteria, assuming there are no contraindications for surgery and the breasts are fully developed:

  • Breasts are much larger in proportion to the body frame
  • Back or shoulder pain is caused by the weight of your breasts
  • Rashes in the breast creases
  • Numbness or tingling shooting down the arm related to breast weight
  • Bra strap indentations on shoulders
  • Emotional stress related to large breasts (however, this isn’t recognized as a reason for health insurance coverage for surgery)

Who is NOT a good candidate for breast reduction surgery?

Women who smoke should not have a breast reduction. The nicotine in tobacco (and in Nicorette gum and patches) cause the small vessels of the body to shrink rendering healing to surgical sites a potential problem. Women should be off ALL nicotine products for a minimum of four weeks prior to surgery.

In addition, severely obese patients may want to lose weight before breast reduction surgery. Being overweight increases intra-operative and post-operative complications. Women who have sagging breasts and want them lifted without a reduction in size should consider a mastopexy (breast lift), rather than breast reduction. Women without a proper mammographic work-up (age appropriate) should not undergo breast reduction surgery since it will alter the internal tissues. Depending on age and any family history of breast cancer, screening may be in order first. Women with major health issues should first be cleared by their physician before considering breast reduction. Likewise, certain medications may have to be held before surgery. Cessation of medications should first be cleared by your physician.

What are the types of breast reduction?

There are several types of breast reduction techniques, which all virtually function the same. Breast reductions reduce the size of the breasts (while often improving symmetry), raise the nipple, make the breast perkier, and reduce the size of the areola – all with the trade off of incisions and scars. As a rule, the more that is reduced or the saggier the breast, the more (or larger) incisions are needed to get the job done. Below is a list of some of the breast reduction techniques used. While they are referred to as techniques, understand that the type of reduction performed is more dependent on breast size and shape than surgeon preference. And some techniques may be appropriate for certain breast sizes, while others may not.

Pedicle Method

Most breast reduction involve some type of pedicle, which is the main portion of the remaining breast tissue that attaches to the nipple complex. This mound can either be attached to the chest wall superiorly (at top of the breast), or inferiorly (bottom of breast). Other variations also exist. The pedicle is the main supply of blood to the nipple, and as such, vital for its proper healing. Inferior and superior pedicle are generally a matter of surgeon preference. Most surgeons prefer the inferior pedicle technique, but both function well to provide adequate blood flow to the nipple when they are performed properly. It is debatable as to which technique provides superior cosmetic results and longevity.

Free Nipple Graft

When the breast is extremely large or droopy, the pedicle technique won’t suffice. In these cases, the pedicle will be too long and lose its ability to supply proper circulation to the end of the tissue – the nipple. In this situation, the nipple and areola may be removed and placed back onto the breast in a higher (perkier) location as a skin graft. This technique is known as a free nipple graft. The downside is that the nipple can no longer function during lactation. The upside is that surgeries that don’t employ the pedicle technique can sometimes be done more expediently, reducing operating time. The free nipple graft is not a common option.

Anchor Incision Pattern or Inverted-T

By far, this is the most common breast reduction technique performed. The anchor or inverted-T refers to the shape of the incisions used. A superior or inferior pedicle and even a free nipple graft can all be used with anchor or inverted-T incisions. The incisions (and subsequent scars) from this approach run around the newly reduced areola, down from the bottom of the areola to the breast crease, and along the breast fold. This incision pattern will often result in the perkiest breasts. Variations of the anchor incision exist by eliminating either the vertical or horizontal limb, but the shape does generally suffer a little when one of these incisions is not used.

LeJour Incision Pattern (or lollipop incision)

Lejour technique is a type of vertical breast reduction. This approach uses the same scars as an anchor or inverted-T, minus the horizontal limb that runs along the breast fold. There is generally a medial pedicle that is used, which makes the interior architecture a little different than the prior pedicles discussed. The advantage to the vertical breast reduction is the elimination of the horizontal scar. The disadvantage is that the breasts tend to look a little funny for the first few months – with almost an upside-down appearance in some cases. Without the horizontal incision, much of the tissue bunches up at the bottom of the breast, necessitating a small revision in about 25 percent of cases. For some, this risk is well worth the elimination of the scar. However, the major disadvantage to this surgery is patient selection. Most women have breasts that are too large or too droopy for this approach.

Will insurance cover my breast reduction surgery?

Health insurance may cover part (or in some cases all) of your breast reduction surgery. However, insurance companies have in recent years been very difficult to work with, particularly with breast reduction surgery. The companies require intra-operative weight measurements of all tissues and will not cover any costs unless at least a specific amount of breast is removed. Often, the value that is required leaves a woman with very little breast tissue. The office can run insurance verification for prospective patients to inform you of benefits, but almost always some down payment will be required prior to surgery.

What is the downtime of a breast reduction?

Breast reduction is a surface operation which means there is no deep dissection that puts big vessels or nerves in harm’s way. The operation entails resection of breast tissue and skin. Thus, post operative restrictions are not overwhelming. Patients asking about downtime after surgery are often wondering when they can resume work or exercise and want to know if they will be bed-ridden during their recovery process.

Patients who have breast reduction surgery should be walking the day of surgery; there should be no period of time spend in bed after this procedure. Early ambulation is actually beneficial to avoid possible leg clots. Most of the incisions are healed by seven to 10 days. Every surgeon may have their own post operative protocol when it comes to exercise and showering. Generally, patients may shower after 48 hours. They may return to work within a few days if they are up for it, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for two to four weeks, depending on the individual. Sexual activity should be avoided for a week.

How much does a breast reduction cost?

Prices for breast reduction vary considerably, based on whether insurance covers any of the cost and the extent of the reduction. Out of pocket costs may average around $10,000. Often, breast reductions or breast lifts are combined with mommy makeover surgeries that include liposuction and a tummy tuck.

What are some of the risks of breast reduction surgery?

Like any surgery, bleeding and infection are risks associated with breast reduction surgery. Because the surgery site is remote from major vessels, the kind of bleeding complication that may occur is generally not life threatening. Bleeding may develop from a small vessel after surgery, leading to a hematoma (collection of blood), which necessitates treatment in the office or an operating room. Surgical drains may be placed in the breast to collect blood after surgery. If they are placed, they are often removed the next day or two in the office. Infections of the breast after this type of surgery are rare. If infection occurs, they can almost always be managed with oral antibiotics.

The most likely unwanted event is poor healing. As one may imagine, the length of the incisions can be quite long. Breast tissue and skin on the chest wall isn’t as vascular as it is in the face or hands. Thus, healing here may be more difficult. This is why it is imperative to be off vasocontricting agents like nicotine. In addition, the bigger the reduction (and longer the pedicle), the more difficult blood flow is to the nipple. Thus, poor nipple and areola healing, perhaps one of the most dreaded complications, is a real risk. Poor healing of these tissues may lead to pigmentary changes of this darker skin. These risks, of course, are minimized with proper patient selection and appropriate technique from an experienced surgeon.

Can I have a breast reduction without scars?

No. Perhaps the least invasive technique for breast reduction is liposuction. However, few women are candidates for this procedure since the decompression of the breast can generate droopiness. Also, breast tissue is fibrous and isn’t often amenable to liposuction.

Can you liposuction my breasts?

While liposuction can reduce some of the fatty component of breast tissue, it won’t remove the breast tissue itself which is more fibrous. Picture the breast being a grapefruit and the liposuction removing only the juice. Thus, there are some major limitations to liposuction of the breast for breast reduction. It is almost never performed for this reason.

When can I expect to return to work and resume my normal daily activities?

After breast reduction surgery, most women will return to normal activities within the end of the week. There is no need to be bed-ridden at any point during your recover process. Light activity is actually encouraged. Showering can commence after 2 days (sometimes longer in certain cases). As a rule, one shouldn’t lift anything heavier than a gallon of milk for the first 2 weeks. After that, you may slowly resume light exercise. However, there is no better substitute than common sense. Jogging that may put pressure on the breasts should be avoided until you get the okay from your plastic surgeon.

When can I shower after breast reduction surgery?

One can shower after breast reduction usually after 48 hours. Sometimes, this activity may be delayed depending on circumstances, but sponge bathing is almost always acceptable after two days.

How long with the results of breast reduction surgery last?

The results of a breast reduction are permanent. There is no fix to combat effects of aging and gravity, but you can be sure that after a breast reduction your breasts will always be smaller and perkier than if you never had a reduction. For many with pre-operative back pain or rashes, they will soon find relief after surgery. Pregnancy and weight gain are enemies of the post-breast reduction breast. These changes to the body can add volume and weight to the breast leading to larger breasts and/or saggier breasts. Breasts that become droopy after time may still need a surgical lift procedure in the future.

Can I breastfeed after a breast reduction?

While much of the breast is removed during breast reduction surgery, the lactation apparatus should still function assuming that a free nipple graft isn’t performed. A free nipple graft with prohibit breast feeding and it may reduce sensation to the nipple.

Will my breasts and nipples have same sensitivity after breast reduction?

For the first six months, many women will have sensation changes to the nipple – some less sensitive, and some more sensitive. After six months, almost all of these changes return to normal. However, there is a chance that sensation changes may be permanent. This is a potential risk one must accept before choosing breast reduction surgery.

Will a breast reduction make my areola smaller?

Yes, one of the goals of this surgery is to improve the cosmetics of the breasts and restore them to a more youthful shape and appearance. The areola is often reduced significantly to under 50 mm diameter to maintain the natural appearance of the breast.

Will a breast reduction make my breasts perkier?

Yes. The goal of breast reduction surgery is to not only make the breasts smaller, but to make them prettier. Universally, perkier breasts are considered more attractive than saggy ones.

Is it a bad idea to have a breast reduction if I have a family history of breast cancer?

A personal or family history of breast cancer is not a contraindication for breast reduction surgery. However, it should be approached a little differently than someone who has no such history. For one, the screening algorithm changes. Breast exams and mammography should always begin earlier with a personal or family history. It is unwise to have breast reduction surgery that will alter the internal tissues without baseline studies. A dialogue between your plastic surgeon and a medical doctor is always a good first step.

Will I need to be asleep during the surgery?

Almost always, breast reduction surgery is performed under general anesthesia so the patient is asleep. Breast reduction surgery is a long surgery, and with general anesthesia, pain can be controlled well and the airway can remain protected.

Will I have to go to a hospital for breast reduction surgery?

Breast reduction surgery is usually performed in an outpatient setting. This means that one may go home after surgery. Exceptions to this rule include women with other comorbid conditions that would warrant closer evaluation.

Will I be in a lot of pain after breast reduction surgery?

Surprisingly, breast reduction surgery is not terribly painful. While the incisions can be large, the operation itself is a surface operation avoiding major vessels, nerves, and muscle. Most women are surprised at how little post operative pain they have after surgery. Pain can easily be managed after surgery with oral analgesics. Ibuprofen products should be avoided at least a week before and week after surgery since these medications can cause bleeding.

If your disproportionately large breasts are causing you pain or embarrassment, breast reduction surgery may be the right option for you. To schedule your personal consultation, contact Artisan of Beauty Plastic Surgery at 310‑858‑8811.

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