Breast Reduction, technically known as reduction mammoplasty, is designed for women with very large, drooping breasts. The procedure removes fat, glandular tissue and skin from the breasts, making them smaller, lighter and firmer. It also can reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple. The goal is to give the woman smaller, better-shaped breasts in proportion with the rest of her body.
Patients who undergo Breast Reduction surgery frequently are seeking relief from physical symptoms caused by the excessive weight of large breasts. You may be experiencing a variety of medical problems due to the size and excessive weight of your breasts – from back and neck pain to skin irritation to skeletal deformities to breathing problems. Bra straps may leave indentations in your shoulders or you may feel extremely self-conscious because of your breast size.
Breast Reduction often solves these problems as well as improves the size and shape of your breasts. Dr. Ruthie will take you through the individual factors, and your personal preferences, that will determine the specific technique selected to reduce the size of your breasts. Following Breast Reduction, your breasts will be more proportional to the rest of your body, and clothes will fit you better.
Is a Breast Reduction Right for You?
Breast Reduction is usually performed to alleviate the physical discomfort and restricted activity caused by very large, sagging breasts, rather than simply for cosmetic improvement, but can make significant improvements in your self-esteem.
Breast Reduction may be an option for you if:
- you feel self-consciousness about the largeness of your breasts
- one breast is much larger than the other
- you experience back, neck or shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breasts
- bra straps cause indentations in your shoulders
- physical activity is restricted due to the size and weight of your breasts
In most cases, Breast Reduction isn’t performed until a woman’s breasts are fully developed; however, it can be done earlier if large breasts are causing serious physical discomfort. Dr. Ruthie will help you make the final decision on whether a Breast Reduction surgery is right for you; however, the best candidates are those who are mature enough to fully understand the procedure and have realistic expectations about the results. Breast reduction is not recommended for women who intend to breast-feed.
Your Visit with Dr. Ruthie
During your consultation, Dr. Ruthie will examine your breasts, take measurements and discuss your goals for the outcome of the procedure. She will consider the unique attributes of your breasts, ask about your desired breast size and anything else about your breasts that you would like to see improved to determine whether your goals can be realistically achieved. Dr. Ruthie will explain to you, in detail and with photographs, what the procedure will entail and what you can expect during recovery, as well as answer any questions or concerns you may have.
You should come to the consultation prepared to discuss your medical history, including information about any medical conditions, drug allergies, medical treatments you have received, previous surgeries, medications you currently take and the results of any mammograms or previous biopsies. You should tell Dr. Ruthie if you are on a weight loss plan, and if you notice a reduction in breast size with weight loss. She may recommend you stabilize your weight prior to making a final decision about surgery.