Procedure name:
Breast Reduction

Anticipated result of the procedure:
If you are a woman with overly large breasts, breast reduction surgery can be a tremendously life-enhancing option. Women with very large, pendulous breasts may experience a variety of medical problems caused by the excessive weight-from back and neck pain and skin irritation to skeletal deformities and breathing problems.

Having the procedure will give you far more than just smaller, firmer breasts. You'll also get significant relief from many physical and emotional discomforts, a new sense of freedom in your exercise and physical activity, and the ability to wear a greater variety of clothing styles.

Procedure Description:
The specific method chosen for your breast reduction will be determined by your anatomy, your surgeon's preferences and your desired results. Techniques for breast reduction vary, but the most common procedure involves an anchor-shaped incision that circles the areola, extends downward, and follows the natural curve of the crease beneath the breast. The surgeon removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin, and moves the nipple and areola into their new position. He or she then brings the skin from both sides of the breast down and around the areola, shaping the new contour of the breast. Liposuction may be used to improve the contour, primarily on the sides of the breasts.

Length:
Approximately 3 to 4 hours

Anesthesia:
General anesthesia

In/Outpatient:
Outpatient procedure

Temporary Side Effects:
Bruising, swelling, discomfort, numbness.

Recovery:
Back to work in 2 to 3 weeks. More strenuous activity 4 to 6 weeks or more. Fading and flattening of scars: several months to 1 year.

Duration of Results:
You can expect to maintain your new breast size, unless you gain or lose a significant amount of weight, or become pregnant.

Risks:
There is always a possibility of complications, including bleeding, infection, or reaction to the anesthesia. The procedure does leave noticeable, permanent scars, although they'll be covered by your bra or bathing suit. These scars may or may not fade in time. (Poor healing and wider scars are more common in smokers.). Future breast-feeding may or may not be possible.

Some patients may experience a temporary or permanent loss of feeling in their nipples. Rarely, the nipple and areola may lose their blood supply and the tissue will die. (The nipple and areola can usually be rebuilt, however, using skin grafts from elsewhere on the body-this is more common in smokers.)

• Weight loss

Top Duke specialists:
Michael Robert Zenn, MD
Gregory Georgiade, MD

FAQS

Are the majority of patients satisfied with the results of a breast reduction?
The satisfaction rates among breast reduction patients tend to be very high. Clothes look better, working out is easier, and looking in the mirror is more enjoyable! In addition, back, neck, and shoulder pain associated with large breasts is eased. For many women, breast reduction offers great freedom.

Are there any feasible alternatives to a breast reduction that achieve the same results?
There are no other surgical procedures that will produce the same dramatic results of a breast reduction. But, patients can always attempt a general weight loss program before deciding upon a breast reduction. For some women, especially those who are overweight, simply shedding some pounds may give them the reduced breast size they desire. Typically, a half or at most a full cup size can be lost with significant changes in diet and exercise.