Breast Reduction, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is one of the most common surgeries sought out by women today.  Some women experience growth of breast tissue beyond what is desired beginning in their teenage years and others develop it in their 30’s or 40’s.  Sometimes this development is also related to pregnancy. Breasts that are too large can lead to neck and back pain to the point that patients require prescription pain medication or physical therapy.  Large pendulous breasts can also lead to difficulty controlling moisture that leads to rashes, fungal infections, or skin breakdown. A breast reduction is the only long-term solution for reducing breast size, volume, and weight.

What is Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction surgery is done to reduce the size of the breasts and reshape them so that they are proportionate with the rest of the body. Surgical breast reduction is the only effective, long-term treatment for neck and back pain that is often related to large, heavy breasts.

Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Reduction?

Women whose breasts are too large for their body frame and are causing neck, back or shoulder pain can often benefit from a breast reduction. Many women also find that wearing certain clothing items or taking part in certain physical activities is difficult with their large breasts, which can be corrected with this procedure. Ideal candidates will have good skin elasticity and be near or at their goal weight. A consultation with Dr. Newman is the best way to determine candidacy.

The Breast Reduction Procedure

During the breast reduction procedure, there are a number of incisions that can be used through which to remove excess breast tissue. These include:

Donut Incision- Is created around the nipple areola.

Lollipop Incision- Is created around the nipple areola and extends down to the breast crease.

Anchor Incision- Is created around the nipple areola, extends down to the breast crease, and continues horizontally along the inframammary fold.

The breast reduction technique used by Dr. Newman has evolved through the years to create better results, both functionally and cosmetically.  The lollipop technique was originally Dr. Newman’s “go to” technique because it avoided the horizontal incision along the inframammary fold. However, the limitation using this technique was that less surface area could be removed from a large breast. While this technique is occasionally used in some patients, a larger breast reduction will require an anchor incision.  Adding the inframammary fold incision allows better control in shaping the breast, reducing the length of the breast, and better overall reduction in weight and volume.

Breast reduction is an outpatient surgery done under general anesthesia. The surgery takes about 3 to 4 hours on average but may take longer for larger breasts. Gauze and a support bra are placed at the end of the surgery. Drains are not typically used in breast reductions done by Dr. Newman.

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I have needed a breast reduction for 20+ years and I am thrilled with Dr. Newman’s results. He has been amazing from out first appointment!! My neck and shoulder pain has been reduced to nearly nothing! I wish had I had done this years ago!! Choose Dr. Newman, you will not be disappointed, I’m not!!! – Kathy C.

Downtime and Recovery

Following breast reduction surgery, swelling and bruising are to be expected. Discomfort can be controlled with pain medication. Wearing a bra after breast reduction surgery is absolutely important to ensure proper healing.  Dr. Newman asks that his patients wear a bra around the clock for 6 to 8 weeks.  This supports the breast so that the internal scarring develops in such a way that holds the tissues in place.  Dr. Newman will supply you with specific post-op instructions to help ensure optimal results.

Relief from the reduction in weight is typically appreciated as early as the recovery room.  Patients immediately feel as though a weight has been lifted off their chest.

To learn more about breast reduction at our St. Petersburg office, contact us today to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Newman!

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