Breast Reduction
Excessively large breasts can cause a variety of symptoms. Breast reduction, also referred to as reduction mammoplasty, can help relieve neck, back, and shoulder pain associated with very large breasts. It can also enhance the overall appearance of the breasts.
Breast reduction surgery involves the removal of fat, glandular tissue, and skin from the breasts, making the breasts smaller, lighter, and firmer. This procedure can reduce the size of the areola and give a woman smaller, better-shaped breasts that may be more proportional to the rest of her body. At Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, board-certified plastic surgeon Gene Sloan, MD performs breast reduction surgery, along with other procedures such as breast augmentation and breast lift, to help his patients feel more comfortable in their skin and more confident in their appearance.
Explore Topics On This Page
What Are the Benefits of Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction surgery can offer physical, aesthetic, and emotional benefits. Some top advantages of this procedure include:
- Relief from Physical Discomfort: Breast reduction can help reduce back, neck, and shoulder pain caused by the weight of overly large breasts. It may also alleviate rashes
underneath the breast, tension headaches, and tingling in the fingers. - Enhanced Appearance: This procedure can create a more proportionate breast size, thus improving body contour and symmetry.
- Psychological Benefits: Breast reduction surgery can boost self-confidence and body image, which may reduce emotional distress related to appearance.
- Increased Activity Level: By allowing for greater comfort during physical activities, breast reduction can aid in the enhancement of overall fitness and mobility.
- Expanded Clothing Options: Fashion choices can be made easier and more expansive thanks to the better fit of clothing and bras.
How Is Breast Reduction Performed?
A breast reduction is usually a three to three and a half hour operation performed under general anesthetic as an outpatient. This procedure involves making incisions on the breasts, typically around the areola, vertically down from the areola to the breast crease, and horizontally along the breast crease. Through these incisions, Dr. Sloan can remove excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin to reduce the overall size of the breasts. The nipple and areola are moved to a higher, more aesthetically pleasing position, and the remaining breast tissue can be reshaped for a natural appearance. In a breast reduction the breasts are always lifted as well. The incisions are then closed. Sometimes mesh is used to help support the breast long term. The surgical technique chosen depends on a patient’s specific anatomy and desired reduction volume, which can be discussed during the detailed pre-operative consultation process.
How Is Recovery After a Breast Reduction?
Recovery after breast reduction surgery can differ from patient to patient as everyone’s body recovers differently. However, the improvement in neck, back, and shoulder pain is noticed almost immediately. Patients may initially experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can often be manageable with prescribed or over-the-counter medications. Most patients return to work and light activities within a week, but should avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for about two to three weeks. Supportive bras without underwire are recommended to encourage safe healing. The breast scars are treated with paper tape, silicone tape, silicone sheets, or silicone cream to improve scar quality. These are used for 3 months changing intermittently. It is important to follow Dr. Sloan’s post-operative instructions, attend follow-up appointments, and report any signs of infection or complications.
“Just a note to say thank you for the excellent care you have given me during my recent surgery. All of you have made me feel so special and cared for. A rare commodity now days. Thank you for your wonderful skill. I know you’re the best.”
How Much Does Breast Reduction Surgery Cost?
The cost of breast reduction surgery can vary based on numerous factors, including:
- Surgeon’s fees
- Anesthesia and facility fees
- Supportive post-operative garments
- Prescribed medication
Once your treatment plan has been developed, a member of our team will provide you with a customized quote. We also provide financing options for qualified applicants through CareCredit®, ALPHAEON® Credit, and PatientFi®. Payment plans available with these reputable lending companies can help make procedural payments more manageable and convenient.
Download your FREE Breast Reduction Guide
Click here to download our Breast Reduction guide which includes additional information about candidacy and the procedure.
If you are interested in a breast reduction consultation, contact the best breast reduction doctor in Little Rock today.
