Breast Reduction Surgery
Reduce for Comfort
Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure designed to remove excess breast tissue and skin, improving the size and shape of overly large breasts. This surgery can help alleviate discomfort caused by macromastia, including back and neck pain, headaches, shoulder grooving, and skin irritation. If you experience these symptoms, a breast reduction may provide significant relief.
What Is a Breast Reduction Procedure?
Breast reduction surgery reduces breast size by removing excess tissue, fat, and skin for a more balanced shape. Performed under general anesthesia, it involves strategic incisions, tissue reshaping, and nipple repositioning. This procedure relieves discomfort from large breasts, including back and neck pain, shoulder grooving, and skin irritation. It also improves posture, enhances mobility, and boosts self-confidence, providing both physical relief and aesthetic benefits.
How Can Breast Reduction Benefit Me?
Breast reduction surgery can greatly enhance your quality of life by:
Easing Physical Discomfort
Relieves neck, back, and shoulder pain caused by heavy breasts.
Enhancing Mobility
Makes physical activities and exercise more comfortable.
Improving Posture
Promotes better alignment and confidence.
Reducing Skin Irritation
Helps prevent under-breast rashes and excessive sweating.
Boosting Confidence
Allows you to feel more comfortable in your clothing.
Enhancing Sleep Quality
Reduces discomfort, leading to better rest.
Alleviating Emotional Distress
Decreases self-consciousness and improves overall well-being.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Reduction?
Ideal candidates for breast reduction surgery in Atlanta are individuals with large breasts experiencing physical discomfort, chronic pain, or emotional distress due to their breast size. Common concerns include back, neck, or shoulder pain, as well as skin irritation and rashes beneath the breasts.
Difficulty with physical activities or finding well-fitting clothing can also be factors. Teenagers may need to wait until breast development is complete, while those with uncontrolled diabetes, significant heart or lung conditions, or anesthesia allergies may not qualify. Smoking is discouraged, as it can impair healing and increase surgical risks.
What Are the Common Symptoms of Large Breasts (Macromastia)?
Common symptoms of macromastia include:
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Shoulder, neck, and back pain
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Breast pain (mastalgia)
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Rashes (intertrigo) under the breast folds
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Difficulty finding well-fitting clothes
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Shoulder grooving from bra straps
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Limited physical activity due to breast size
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Decreased sensation in the breasts and nipples
What’s the difference between a breast reduction and a breast lift (mastopexy)?
A breast lift is a cosmetic procedure focused on reshaping the breasts by repositioning the nipple-areola complex and removing excess skin and tissue. While similar techniques are used in both procedures, breast reduction primarily involves removing breast tissue to reduce size.
Is Breast Reduction Surgery Covered by Insurance?
Many health insurance providers cover breast reduction surgery. After your consultation, if you're deemed a candidate, your surgeon will submit a request for insurance authorization. Once approved, your surgery will be scheduled. You will be responsible for your deductible, and if your surgeon is out-of-network, be sure to check if your insurance covers out-of-network benefits. If not, you’ll need to cover the cost out-of-pocket or explore financing options.
Does Insurance Cover Breast Reduction Surgery?
Many health insurance providers cover breast reduction surgery. After your consultation, if you're deemed a suitable candidate, your surgeon will submit a request for insurance authorization.
Once approved, your procedure will be scheduled. You’ll be responsible for your deductible, and if your surgeon is out-of-network, check if your insurance offers out-of-network benefits. If not, you may need to cover the cost out-of-pocket or explore financing options.
What Happens on the Day of Surgery?
On the day of your surgery, your plastic surgeon will mark your breasts to guide the procedure. Breast reduction is typically performed in an outpatient setting and takes 2–4 hours, depending on breast size and surgical complexity.
After surgery, you’ll be monitored during recovery and sent home with pain and anti-nausea medications. Some surgeons use drains, which are usually removed within two weeks for larger reductions. Under general anesthesia, your surgeon will make strategic incisions, remove excess tissue and skin, reposition the nipples if needed, and close the incisions. You'll be fitted with a supportive surgical bra to aid healing.
Will My Breasts Be Lifted and Perky After Surgery?
This is a common question and concern. Perkiness depends on the fullness of the upper portion of the breasts. If you lacked upper pole fullness before surgery, it’s unlikely you will have it afterward.
The level of fullness also depends on the surgical technique used. Methods that preserve breast tissue continuity in the upper area tend to provide longer-lasting results and reduce the risk of bottoming out. However, factors like aging, gravity, and hormonal changes can cause the breasts to settle over time. In such cases, an additional procedure like a breast lift may be needed to restore perkiness.
What Can I Expect During Breast Reduction Surgery Recovery?
For the first few days, you should rest at home with a caregiver available for the first 24–48 hours. Wearing a supportive sports bra will aid healing and reduce tension on your incisions after your Atlanta breast reduction surgery. Strenuous activities should be avoided for 3–4 weeks until your wounds have healed.
Pain is typically well managed with prescribed medication, and once discontinued, you can resume work and driving. Scarring varies based on the technique used, making it crucial to follow your surgeon’s wound care instructions. Swelling is expected, with final breast shape and size settling around eight weeks post-surgery.
Breast Reduction Outcomes
While you’ll notice a significant reduction in breast size and relief from discomfort soon after surgery, the final results take time to fully develop. Most swelling subsides within three to four months, revealing the new breast shape and size. Scars will gradually fade over the course of a year, and your breasts will continue to soften and settle into their natural position. The results of breast reduction surgery are generally long-lasting, with many women experiencing lasting improvements in comfort, mobility, and confidence for years to come.
Why Choose Dr. Norman Stewart?
Dr. Norman Stewart is a distinguished board-certified Atlanta plastic surgeon, recognized for his expertise in breast reduction surgeries. With a history of numerous successful procedures and a focus on patient safety, he has earned accolades and positive media attention for his contributions to the field. Patients commend his compassionate approach, advanced techniques, and commitment to achieving exceptional results.
Dr. Stewart's reputation is built on a proven track record of transforming lives, as evidenced by the glowing testimonials from satisfied patients. Choosing Dr. Stewart means entrusting your care to a respected, skilled professional known for delivering optimal outcomes and an outstanding patient experience.
Book Your Breast Reduction Consultation at Nip & Tuck Plastic Surgery in Atlanta Today!
Take the first step towards improving your quality of life with a breast reduction consultation. Contact Nip & Tuck Plastic Surgery in Atlanta, GA, today to schedule your appointment. Relieve physical discomfort, boost your self-confidence, and achieve a more balanced breast size. Our skilled plastic surgeon is here to listen to your concerns and offer personalized solutions tailored to your needs. Don't wait—take control of your well-being and make the change today!
