Breast Reduction Information

Patients who undergo breast reduction surgery frequently are seeking relief from physical symptoms caused by the excessive weight of large breasts. Breast reduction usually can solve these problems as well as improve the size and shape of your breasts. Following breast reduction, your breasts will be more proportional to the rest of your body, and clothes will fit you better. You may be a good candidate for breast reduction if you have one or more of the following conditions: breasts that are too large in proportion to your body frame, you have heavy, pendulous breasts with nipples and areolas that point downward, one breast is much larger than the other , you experience back, neck or shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breasts, skin irritation beneath your breasts, you have indentations in your shoulders from tight bra straps, restriction of physical activity due to the size and weight of your breasts, and/or dissatisfaction or self-consciousness about the largeness of your breasts.

Consultation

Dr. Stewart will examine your breasts and take photographs for your medical record. He will consider such factors as the size and shape of your breasts, the quality of your skin and the placement of your nipples and areolas (the pigmented skin surrounding the nipples).

If you think that you may want to become pregnant in the future, you should mention this to Dr. Stewart. Pregnancy can alter breast size in an unpredictable way and could affect the long-term results of your breast reduction.  During the consultation, you will be asked about your desired breast size as well as anything else about your breasts that you would like to see improved. This will help Dr. Stewart understand your expectations and determine whether they realistically can be achieved.

Understanding Risks

Every year, many thousands of women undergo successful breast reduction surgery; however, anyone considering surgery should be aware of both the benefits and risks.

I understand that every surgical procedure has risks, but how will I learn more so that I can make an informed decision?

The subject of risks and potential complications of surgery is best discussed on a personal basis between you and Dr. Stewart, or with a staff member our office.

Some of the potential complications that will be discussed with you include bleeding, infection and reactions to anesthesia. Rarely, a patient may require a blood transfusion during the operation. This usually can be anticipated in advance, and Dr. Stewart may, under certain circumstances, advise you to donate your own blood in preparation for surgery.

Following reduction surgery, sometimes the breasts may not be perfectly symmetrical or the nipple height may vary slightly. If desired, minor adjustments can be made at a later time. Permanent loss of sensation in the nipples or breasts may occur rarely. Revisionary surgery is sometimes helpful in certain instances where incisions may have healed poorly. In the unlikely event of injury to or loss of the nipple and areola, they usually can be satisfactorily reconstructed using skin grafts.

Insurance coverage is sometimes available for breast reduction surgery. Many factors determine your eligibility, including the specific terms of your insurance policy and the amount of breast tissue to be removed. A letter of predetermination may be required by your insurance company prior to surgery. Dr. Stewart or a staff member in the office will discuss these matters with you. Predetermination for this procedure usually takes one to four weeks.

Return to Work
After breast reduction surgery, it is often possible to return to work within just a few days or a week, depending on your job. Vigorous activities, especially arm movement, may be restricted for three to six weeks.