Breast Reduction
Sometimes the breasts are too large and cumbersome, making common tasks more difficult than they need to be or causing chronic shoulder, neck and back pain. Over-developed breasts may make some women appear out of shape and overweight or limit their participation in certain activities and exercises. This often results in embarrassment or self-consciousness.
Reduction Mammoplasty can improve the appearance of the breasts. A reduction can also relieve the physical symptoms related to heavy, pendulous breasts. In exchange for this improvement, the patient must accept scarring on the lower part of the breasts. This operation permits the patient to feel better about her figure, to more easily acquire properly fitting clothing and to be more comfortable while engaging in physical activity.
Reductions are carried out to relieve back, shoulder and neck pain, skin irritation and problems with clothing which are common in women with large, pendulous breasts, as well as for improvement in appearance. They may also make sports more enjoyable.
Consultation
As with any surgical procedure, cosmetic consultation is an important step in the process of considering aesthetic surgery. Dr. Oser and his staff are committed to helping you become well informed about the actual process of preparing for a breast reduction.
Your candidacy for this procedure is determined during the consultation phase. Dr. Oser will help you to decide whether you are a good candidate for a breast reduction. He will take into consideration your specific needs, your age, health and various other factors.
Other services may be recommended in combination with this procedure to ensure that you have an optimal surgical result.
Preparation Before your Procedure
Three weeks prior to and three weeks after your surgery, try to limit your alcohol and tobacco intake. Two weeks prior to and two weeks after your surgery, do not take medication that may thin your blood such as aspirin or ibuprofen products.
The Day of Your Procedure
Please refrain from wearing makeup, contact lenses, hairpins, jewelry, body lotion or perfume. Wear comfortable clothing. If you develop a cold, sore throat, fever or any symptoms of illness before your surgery, notify the office.
Please prepare to have a responsible adult available to provide transportation after your procedure and have arrangements made for any necessary assistance you may require for the following 24 hours. If you are a minor, a parent or guardian must accompany you.
Procedure
A breast reduction can take between two to five hours depending on the complexity of the procedure. When you are ready for surgery, you will be brought into our state-of-the-art, certified surgical suite and comfortably put to sleep using general anesthesia.
A short scar breast reduction procedure is a minimally invasive technique that allows for virtually undetectable scarring and a quicker recovery. Speak with Dr. Oser to see if you are a good candidate for this advanced technique.
Recovery
Just as everyone is an individual, everyone recovers differently. Avoiding strenuous activity and sleeping on your back is recommended for one to two weeks following surgery. Most patients are back to work within one to two weeks.
A couple days after your surgery, Dr. Oser will follow up with you to see how you are healing, answer any questions and, if necessary, prescribe medication.
Results
While results may vary, patients typically enjoy smaller, firmer, more comfortable breasts that are in a better position relative to the figure. A breast reduction can make a dramatic change in not only your appearance, but also your outlook on life. Many patients find new enjoyment in sports, exercise, dancing and many other physical activities.
Your doctor may recommend complementary services such as liposuction to maximize your desired result.
