Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mastopexy, can dramatically reshape breasts that are too large or disproportionate, and can also alleviate neck and back pain, reduce skin discomfort and irritation from bra straps, thereby eliminating self-consciousness. Overlarge breasts can also result in severe overall disproportion in a woman’s body.

Women may also consider breast reduction surgery if current breast size causes breathing difficulties, poor posture or interference with normal daily activities and exercise.

Breast reduction surgery is considered reconstructive surgery and can usually be covered by medical insurance.

THE SURGERY

Performed under general anesthesia, Dr. Shah performs breast reduction surgery in our state-of-the-art, fully accredited surgical suite, lasting approximately two to three hours. Incisions are made similar to an anchor or inverted keyhole encompassing the area around the nipple-areolar complex (the pigmented area) and extended vertically below the nipple and in the fold underneath the breast. Excess breast tissue, fat and skin are removed where the incisions are made. The nipple-areolar complex may then be moved and/or repositioned to create the desired natural-looking breast shape and contour. Because breast reduction surgery is major surgery, some scarring is expected; however, will generally fade over time.

THE RECOVERY

Breast reduction surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis. Patients go home in a bra with only light dressings over the incision lines. The bra is worn as a “dressing” for two to three weeks. As with the breast lift procedure, sutures are usually removed in two to three weeks. Initial discomfort or pain is controlled with oral medication. Light activities may be resumed in seven to ten days; however, you should avoid mild or strenuous exercise for several weeks and should be extremely gentle with your breasts for at least six weeks following surgery.

Visit our plastic / cosmetic surgery offices located in Oak Lawn and Orland Park, Illinois (IL). We are conveniently near the Chicago area.