Breast Reduction

Women who suffer from the pain of breasts that are too large for their body to comfortably support often experience neck and back pains, shoulder grooves from bra straps and also self-consciousness about the size.

This uncomfortable way of living can be stopped with a Breast Reduction, which aims to reduce the size of the breasts to the patient’s desired size. Dr. Korman has performed hundreds of Breast Reductions using a variety of techniques, giving his patients the chance to live a more comfortable, active life. To schedule your Breast Reduction consultation, contact or all any of our 3 offices.

What is a Breast Reduction?

A Breast Reduction is a surgical procedure that reduces breast size by removing excess skin, fat, and breast tissue until the desired size is reached. The incisions made for the removal process will be based on the size and shape of your breasts. The areola may need to be repositioned or resized to suit the new breasts. Dr. Korman commonly lifts the breasts too to ensure enduring results and to reduce the heaviness that often comes with large breasts. Breast Reduction can be performed as a procedure on its own, or in conjunction with others procedures such as Liposuction, a Tummy Tuck, or facial surgery.

Candidates

Macromastia, or large breasts, can cause a number of physical strains; this is referred to as “symptomatic macromastia.”

Women who suffer from symptomatic macromastia typically experience constant pain of the neck, shoulders, and back.

This strain often causes poor posture, headaches, and permanent indentations in the shoulder from bra straps. These straps can cause skin irritation, and even the breast rubbing against the skin themselves can cause irritation.

Some women have to limit working out because it is just too painful. This is because of the constant motion but also the inability to find a bra with proper support; this results in both a bother and a health risk. Another symptomatic macromastia condition is limited sleeping positions, and sleeping on your back can sometimes restrict your breathing.

While some women experience painful effects, others might just desire an aesthetic change. Breast Reduction does not have an age restriction, but the breasts must be fully developed.

If you experience even one of the above afflictions, schedule a consultation with Dr. Korman and he will be able to advise you on how a Breast Reduction will improve your lifestyle.

Benefits of a Breast Reduction

Techniques Used

Dr. Korman performs Breast Reduction with a variety of incisions as he tailors the procedure to your individual needs; however, there are other incisions that can be used to accommodate an array of individual cases. For some patients, Liposuction alone can be effective at reducing the size of breasts. In this case, there is only a very small incision that needs to be made. The incision that will best suit you specifically will be determined during your private consultation examination.

Vertical (Lollipop) Incision

Mimicking the shape of a lollipop, the vertical incision technique begins with an incision from the areola down to the natural crease of the breast, and then around the areola. The proper amount of skin, fat, and tissue are excised to reach the desired decrease. This is a very popular Breast Reduction method as there is minimal scarring, ample decrease in size, and added perkiness to the bust.

Anchor Incision

The anchor incision is similar to the vertical incision, however, in addition to the circumferential areola incision and the incision running from the areola to the breast crease, a third incision is made following the natural crease of the breast. This anchor pattern allows Dr. Korman to remove a larger amount of skin, fat, and tissue for those who desire a substantial decrease in size. These patients typically have experienced significant weight loss.

Consultation

He will perform a medical examination to assess your skin quality and determine the best personalized technique that will give you optimal results. He will go over each step of the procedure including recovery so you are fully aware of the whole process. Please make mention of your medical history and past procedures, as well as routine medications as he may have you adjust your intake. You should also mention if you are planning on losing a large amount of weight or becoming pregnant and breastfeeding in the future.

Dr. Korman will show you before and after photos of previous patients with similar body types who have undergone the same technique. This is only meant to give you a general idea of possible results, since results do vary from patient to patient. Before picture will be take of you so you can see your marvelous transformation post surgery. Any and all questions will gladly be answered at this time, including pricing inquiries.

Preparation

A pre-op mammogram is required for all Breast Reduction patients over 40, or younger for those with a family history of breast disease, and possibly additional medical tests based on your medical history. Refrain from smoking, anti-inflammatory medication, and herbal supplements 3 weeks prior to surgery. You will be prescribed antibiotics and pain medication that you will need to pick up prior to surgery so you have them immediately post surgery.

Please arrange to have a friend or family member drive you home as you will not be able to drive yourself. We recommend having someone stay overnight with you to aid in your first night of healing. Arm motion will be limited the first week, so make sure that everything you will need during your recovery is at counter level.

Procedure Information

When you arrive for your procedure, Dr. Korman will mark the incision spots while you are in a standing position. This is because your breasts will change shape once you lay down, so marking them ahead of time will ensure the incisions are made in the proper placement. Your procedure will take between 2-3 hours.

You will be administered general anesthesia so you are asleep during the whole surgery.

Once anesthetized, Dr. Korman will make the predetermined incisions, remove the appropriate amount of fat, breast tissue, and skin, and then suture the incisions closed. You will then be moved to the recovery room where you will be closely monitored and slowly wake from the anesthesia at your own comfortable pace.

Ancillary Procedures

Breast Lift

Typically Dr. Korman performs a Breast Lift in conjunction with your Breast Reduction procedure to create a smaller, perkier contour. A Breast Lift can also be performed as a procedure on its own, but a breast lift does not decrease the volume of your breast. It only restores the bust to a more youthful position.

Tummy Tuck

A Breast Reduction and a Tummy Tuck performed together is one combination option of a “Mommy Makeover.” A Tummy Tuck is a surgical procedure in which Dr. Korman tightens the abdominal wall and excises excess skin to create a defined, slim abdomen. This is a popular option for moms who have given birth and would like to restore their pre-pregnancy bodies.

Liposuction

A Breast Reduction and Liposuction> can also be considered a Mommy Makeover combination. Liposuction suctions out stubborn fat deposits that do not respond to diet or exercise. It can be performed on various parts of the body, such as the abdomen and thighs. Alternatively, Liposuction can be used as a helpful tool in a Breast Reduction procedure, however, this is rare. Dr. Korman will be able to determine if you would benefit from this method during your consultation.

What to Expect Following a Breast Reduction

Once your surgery is complete, you will be placed in dressings and a support bra which will support and help the breasts form to their new contour. Following your procedure there may be slight swelling or bruising, and Dr. Korman may recommend a tube insertion in the days following the procedure for excess drainage. It is normal for the breasts and nipples to feel sensitive and tender.

It is recommended to take at least a week off from work to ensure a long enough rest and relaxation period. Having someone to help with your kids can greatly aid in relaxation. Keep to light activities the first week of recovery, but walking is encouraged to prevent blood clots.

Within 2 to 3 weeks, most patients are able to resume normal activity.

You will come in for a few follow-up appointments to change dressings, remove drains, and assess your healing progress. Any scarring will fade in time, and can easily be concealed in a bikini top. Further information about Breast Reduction recovery can be discussed with Dr. Korman.

Ample rest is key to great results. If you follow all instructions provided, you can enjoy your workouts pain-free and wear low-cut blouses worry free.

What is the Cost of a Breast Reduction?