Search for a doctor by Zip Code:         Breast Augmentation Liposuction Tummy Tuck BOTOX® Facelift Rhinoplasty Breast Lift More... Find a Plastic Surgeon in your area - TOPICS - Breast Augmentation Breast Lift Breast Reduction Liposuction Tummy Tuck Post Bariatric Plastic Surgery Fraxel® Laser Treatment Facelift Rhinoplasty Brow Lift Eyelid Surgery BOTOX® Obagi Blue Peel® Chemical Peel Microdermabrasion Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammaplasty) Quick Facts about Breast Reduction Medical Names: Reduction Mammaplasty, Breast Reduction Estimated Cost: $2,500 - $10,000 Type of Anesthesia: General Total Recovery Time: 1-3 Months; Down Time 1-3 Weeks Procedure Location: Hospital, Plastic Surgery Center Practitioner: Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Reduction Mammaplasty, commonly known as Breast Reduction, is a surgical procedure that reduces the size and weight of large breasts by removing excess fat, skin and breast tissue. Breast reduction reshapes and lifts the breasts and may involve decreasing the size of the nipple and areola. As a reconstructive surgery, breast reduction helps to relieve back, neck and shoulder pain, skin irritation, chronic headaches and breathing problems often associated with larger, heavier breasts. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), 160,531 breast reductions were performed in 2005. Did You Know? Because a breast reduction surgery is usually performed to lessen health risks, it is one of the few plastic surgery procedures that can sometimes be covered under medical insurance. THE BREAST REDUCTION PROCEDURE Breast reduction is performed in a hospital or plastic surgery center and usually requires a general anesthetic. Most breast reductions are done on an outpatient basis, however, an overnight stay in the hospital may be required for more extensive procedures. The breast reduction surgery lasts one to three hours per breast depending on the complexity of the surgery. Most breast reduction surgeries involve three incisions in the shape of an anchor: around the areola, extending downward and following the natural contour of the crease underneath the breast. Through the incisions, the surgeon removes excess glandular tissues, fatty tissues and skin. The nipple and areola are then shifted to a higher position and may be reduced in size. The surgeon draws down the remaining skin to reshape the breast. The incisions are sutured and bandaged and temporary tubes may be inserted to drain excess fluids. The patient’s breasts are covered with an elastic bandage or surgical bra for protection and support and will continue to be worn until the swelling and bruising subside, usually several weeks. Medication is prescribed to manage pain and discomfort, which will last for one to two weeks. Bandages and tubes will be removed within a one to two days. Stitches will be removed within one to three weeks. A moisturizing cream may be applied liberally to keep the breast skin supple, but should be avoided in the suture area. Most patients can resume light activities within a few days and can return to normal activities in one to six weeks, depending on the type of work and personal recovery rate. Sexual activity should be avoided for up to a few weeks since arousal can cause incisions to swell. Exercise and strenuous activities should be avoided for four to six weeks to allow the body time to heal properly. BREAST REDUCTION PROCEDURE OPTIONS The incision design, the extent of the reduction and the positioning of the nipple will be determined by the surgeon based on the patient’s breast size and shape, body size and weight, overall health and desired effects. IS BREAST REDUCTION RIGHT FOR YOU? Ideal Candidate for Breast Reduction The ideal candidate is in generally good health, is psychologically stable and has realistic expectations of what can be achieved with breast reduction surgery. Anyone who is suffering from physical ailments or discomfort due to larger breasts is an ideal candidate for breast reduction surgery. All age groups beyond the puberty stage can achieve excellent results with breast reduction. Other Considerations for Breast Reduction The breast reduction recovery period is relatively long. However, for many patients, the long term effects of large, heavy breasts make the surgery worth the recovery time. At your initial consultation, the surgeon will examine, measure and photograph the breasts. The patient and surgeon will discuss with you the options, risks and limitations of breast reduction and make recommendations based on your choices, expectations and medical history. Most surgeons require a recent mammogram. The surgeon will review the pre-surgery preparation instructions, the procedure process including anesthesia and the expected results and post-surgery instructions for maximum recovery. Make sure you discuss all of your questions and specific health issues with your plastic surgeon. BREAST REDUCTION PROCEDURE COST Fees vary from state to state and from one plastic surgeon to another. The cost is based upon the type of surgery needed and the extensiveness of the procedure. Prices range from $2,500 to up to $10,000 for the breast reduction and include surgeon, facility and anesthesia fees. Other important factors determining the final cost may include pre-operative lab fees and post-operative expenses such as prescriptions. Note: A more expensive surgery price does not necessarily ensure a more skilled practitioner. You should ask for referrals and review testimonials before choosing a practitioner. BREAST REDUCTION PROS & CONS Pros Improved breast size, weight and positioning Reduction of back, neck and shoulder muscle pain Reversal or cessation of skeletal strain or chronic headaches Greater self-confidence and less self-consciousnesss Breast reduction patients report a more active lifestyle Cons Long recovery time; one to three weeks of bedrest required Pain and discomfort for several weeks; can be treated with medication Permanent scars; may be hidden by a bra or bathing suit Loss of nipple sensation; usually fades within a few weeks, but occasionally lasts longer Expensive procedure; may be cost prohibitive for some patients ASK A PLASTIC SURGEON ABOUT BREAST REDUCTION - FAQ What are the benefits of Breast Reduction? If a patient is suffering from back, neck and shoulder pain, the onset of skeletal deformities or excessive chafing of the skin, then a breast reduction may be an excellent option. Breast reduction will alleviate most of the physical effects associated with larger breasts. What type of anesthesia is used for Breast Reduction? A general anesthesia is almost always used for breast reduction surgery. Is a Breast Reduction permanent? If the patient is fully developed than breast reduction surgery is a permanent procedure. What is the down time for Breast Reduction? Down time is about one to three weeks. Patients should refrain from strenuous activities for up to six weeks. Total recovery time can last from two to several months. Who should get a Breast Reduction? Anyone who suffers from the effects of very large or heavy breasts may consider a breast reduction. How do I find a plastic surgeon that specializes in Breast Reduction and is right for me? Choosing a plastic surgeon is the most important step in the success of your cosmetic or reconstructive surgery. You want a board certified plastic surgeon that has the best skills and training to help enhance your appearance and achieve your desired results. For a complete picture of Breast Reduction, read the information on this site and make a list of questions. Then find the surgeons in your area and review each surgeon’s qualifications and specialities, practice philosophy, articles, before and after photos and patient testimonials. This information can assist you in making an educated decision in choosing the breast reduction option and specialist right for you. © 2006, 2007 PlasticSurgeon411.com & DDC Internet, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Plastic Surgeon 411 is sponsored and made possible by the community of plastic surgeons on this website. Plastic Surgeon Directory | Plastic Surgery Procedures | Discussion Forum | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | Contact Us Find a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in: Alaska, Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Wyoming © 2006, 2007 PlasticSurgeon411.com & DDC Internet, Inc. All Rights Reserved.