Why Breast Reduction
Breast reduction surgery is usually performed for relief from serious physical discomfort rather than simply for cosmetic improvement. If you have very large, pendulous breasts, it is possible that you are experiencing a number of medical problems that can be attributed to the excessive weight. These problems can include back and neck pain, skin irritation, skeletal deformities and breathing problems. Your bra straps could be leaving indentations in your shoulders and your breasts may be restricting physical activities. And unusually large breasts can make some women or teenage girls feel extremely self-conscious.
Breast reduction is not recommended for women who intend to breast-feed.
Your Breast Reduction Consultation
Dr. Steely will describe the breast reduction procedure in detail, explaining the risks and limitations. He will make an examination of your breasts, measuring and photographing them for reference during surgery, and afterwards for comparison purposes. Dr. Steely will discuss the factors that may impact the procedure - such as your age, your breast size and shape, and condition and elasticity of your skin. He will discuss where the nipple and areola will be positioned as they will be positioned higher during the procedure. Expect to learn about the anesthesia he will use, the surgery facility and the costs.
Preparing For Your Breast Reduction Surgery
Dr. Steely may require that you have a mammogram (breast x-ray) before surgery. You'll also get specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications.
The Breast Reduction Surgery
For your breast reduction surgery, Dr. Steely will use an incision based on the amount of tissue that needs to be removed and lifted. Whenever possible, he uses the shortest incision needed to give you the look you desire.
One technique involves an anchor-shaped incision circling the areola, extending downward, and following the natural curve of the crease beneath the breast. He removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin, and moves the nipple and areola into their new position. He then brings the skin from both sides of the breast down and around the areola, shaping the new contour of the breast.
Another type of incision he may use involves a lateral oblique incision that results in a shortened and less obtrusive scar. Also, to achieve the breast mound shape, breast tissue is held in place by passing a pedicle of breast tissue under a loop of pectoral muscle, thereby establishing longer-lasting upper-pole fullness.
Generally, Dr. Steely will perform the surgery to allow the nipples to remain attached to their blood vessels and nerves. However, if the breasts are very large or pendulous, the nipples and areolas may have to be completely removed and grafted into a higher location. (This will result in a loss of sensation in the nipple and areola tissue.)
Incisions are usually located around the areola, in a vertical line extending downward, and along the lower crease of the breast. In some cases, techniques can be used that eliminate the vertical part of the scar. And occasionally, when only fat needs to be removed, liposuction alone can be used to reduce breast size, leaving minimal scars.
After Breast Reduction Surgery
After breast reduction surgery:
You will need to wear an elastic bandage or a surgical bra over gauze dressings for a few days until
replaced by a soft support to be worn for three to four weeks
There will be some discomfort for the first couple of days, for which Dr. Steely will prescribe
some medication.
Dr. Steely uses absorbable sutures for your comfort.
At your first menstruation following surgery, your breasts may swell and hurt.
Expect some loss of feeling in your nipples and breast skin which usually fades after approximately
six weeks.
Avoid lifting or pushing heavy objects for three or four weeks.
You can most likely return to work (non-strenuous) and social activities in about two weeks.
Limit your exercises to stretching, bending, and swimming.
For support, you will need a good athletic bra for support.
Within six months to a year, your breasts will settle into their new shape.
Although Dr. Steely will make every effort to make your scars as inconspicuous as possible, it is important
to know that breast reduction scars are permanent. Also, he will make sure that the scars are placed
so that you can wear low-cut tops.
Of all plastic surgery procedures, breast reduction results in the quickest body-image changes and
the highest patient satisfaction rate. You'll be rid of the physical discomfort of large breasts, your body
will look better proportioned, and clothes will fit you better.
Dr. Steely will keep you up-to-date and as at-ease as possible at every step of your breast reduction procedure, from consultation to the final new you.
Call 713-622-6500 or email Dr. Steely for a complimentary initial appointment or for more information relating to the breast reduction procedure. |
