Breast Reduction
What is a Breast Reduction?
A Breast Reduction is a surgical procedure to remove excess breast tissue, fat and stretched out skin while repositioning the nipple and oftentimes reducing the size of the areola to produce a smaller, more uplifted breast while creating a more balanced and proportionate shape. Breast reduction surgery is one of the most satisfying procedures for women with heavy pendulous breasts. It can help alleviate much of the neck, shoulder and back pain that over sized breasts cause, while improving self confidence and overall appearance.
Niki Christopoulos MD, FACS uses a variety of techniques to reduce breast size while creating a more uplifted, natural and proportionate breast with the least visible scarring. She will guide you through your initial consultation to determine which technique is best for you and your goals.
Am I a good candidate for a Breast Reduction?
Ideal candidates for Breast Reduction surgery are patients who:
- Have heavy over sized breasts that are disproportionate to their body
- Are self conscious about their breast size
- Suffer from back, neck and shoulder pain
- Are restricted from certain activities secondary to the size of their breasts
Dr. Niki Christopoulos’ Approach to a Breast Reduction
There are typically 3 common incision patterns:
Vertical Breast Reduction– involves an incision around the areola and extends vertically down to the breast crease. This is also known as a “lollipop” or “racquet” shaped pattern.
Traditional Breast Reduction– involves an incision around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease and across the inferior aspect of the breast. This is also known as an “Inverted T” or “anchor” incision
Minimal Scar Breast Reduction– involves small incisions hidden in creases of the breast to reduce fatty breast tissue through liposuction. This technique is best for patients with more fatty breast tissue than glandular tissue and minimally stretched out breast skin.
Dr. Christopoulos uses these techniques to remove excess breast tissue, fat and skin; sculpt, reshape and lift the remaining breast tissue; and reposition the nipple while reducing the size of the areola. Sometimes liposuction is used in conjunction to contour the side of the breast and armpit area.
Dr. Christopoulos is a double-board certified plastic surgeon and performs her surgeries in a fully accredited outpatient surgical facility. Anesthesia is administered by an anesthesiologist using either intravenous sedation or general anesthesia for your comfort and safety during the procedure. The procedure can take anywhere from 1-3 hours, although complicated procedures may take longer.
Breast Reduction Recovery and Results
The length of recovery depends on the type of procedure you have performed and the healing process does vary from individual to individual. It is natural to expect some bruising, swelling and numbness after your procedure. Most patients are able to resume daily activities within a few days and most can return to work within one week. Dr. Christopoulos will advise you to refrain from strenuous activity for several weeks after your surgery and will also guide you on the proper type of bra to wear.
Schedule a consultation today with Dr. Christopoulos to discuss further any questions you may have and to determine which type of Breast Reduction is the correct procedure for you.