Surgical reduction of the breast is a common plastic surgical operation. The operation goal’s, is a reduction in the size and weight of the breast to alleviate back pain, neck pain and shoulder grooving from bra marks. Patients who undergo this procedure are among the happiest patients who undergoing Plastic Surgery.
WHY CHOOSE A BREAST REDUCTION?
Patients who have large breasts suffer from a variety of complaints. The weight of the breasts cause problems such as those mentioned above. These issues are accentuated when the breast position is lower than normal. The position of the breast weight causes the bra to dig into the shoulders and cause neck and back pain. The pull of gravity is transferred to the neck and shoulder muscles causing a spasm.
Women often become self-conscious about the size of their breasts and may suffer from unwanted attention. In addition, breast size can interfere with the ability to exercise because of pain or interference of the breasts with arm motion. Women may experience this despite the best support bras available. This operation is performed to relieve the woman’s symptoms, and in addition, women are quite pleased with their new breast appearance. This procedure also provides lift to the breasts in a higher, more youthful position on the chest wall. The majority of insurance policies will cover medically indicated breast reduction.
DIAGNOSIS AND PLANNING
During your first office visit, Dr. Bandy will examine you and determine whether you might benefit from this operation. During the examination, your general health will be discussed and measurements of the breast may be taken. You will be questioned regarding any history of breast disease, and a mammogram may be recommended prior to surgery.
These measures are taken to ensure that you are in good health and will have a safe surgery. Discussion with Dr. Bandy about how much breast tissue will be removed and information regarding the risks and possible complications of the procedure will help you better understand the process. Your photos may be taken at this time, as most insurance companies require submission of photos to authorize the surgery.
THE OPERATION
Just before your operation, Dr. Bandy will mark the breasts with a felt tip marker for surgical reference. There are several techniques for breast reduction and Dr. Bandy will discuss them with you prior to surgery. Most patients come in the day of surgery, are admitted to the hospital and after the operation stay overnight and go home the following morning, or may even choose to go home the same day after a short recovery, if medically appropriate and there is a reliable adult at home to assist in your care.
On some occasions, a patient may experience nausea from the anesthesia and require an additional day in the hospital until they are able to tolerate liquids. This information is to provide you with the basic information on Breast Reduction Surgery. If you are contemplating having this procedure, you should schedule a consultation with Dr. Amy Bandy and discuss your specific wishes and concerns, and she will be able to give you more detailed information and talk specifically to you about the procedure as it relates to you in particular.
