Information on Breast Reduction Surgery

Making Breasts Smaller and Higher Through Surgery

Macromastia (macro=large, mastia=breast)

Large breasts can cause a multitude of problems, including neck, back, and shoulder pain, headaches, shoulder-grooving (where the bra-straps dig in), postural problems (which contribute to upper extremity nerve problems), interference with activities and exercise, rashes under the breasts, inability to find clothing that fits properly, and problems with self-image. As a result, women with large breasts are often in chronic pain, have little energy, may be overweight because they are unable to exercise, and have self-image problems, all of which interfere with quality of life.

Possible Solutions to the Problem of Large Breasts

Weight loss and exercise are usually suggested (if not required) by insurance companies prior to approval for surgery, but often futile. Weight loss, even if successful, usually does not alleviate the symptoms of macromastia. Many women are unable to exercise because of the large breasts themselves - hence, a catch-22. Aspirin, Tylenol, Ibuprofen, and other medication may benefit some, but usually their effect is limited. Powders may reduce your chance of developing a rash in hot weather. Chiropractic care is rarely of help. Invariably, surgery is the most effective, most efficient, and most successful way to treat the problem of macromastia. The only problem might be getting your insurance company to agree to pay for it.

Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction is an operative procedure in which breast tissue and excess breast skin are removed. The removal of breast tissue results in a smaller breast. Removal of excess skin results in a breast that is higher on the chest wall and more aesthetic. This is an important component of this operation, because it allows the breast to be restored to a youthful appearance and shape. If excess skin were not removed, the breast would actually look worse following breast reduction than before surgery.

During the operation, your nipples will be moved to a higher position on your breasts. This is usually accomplished WITHOUT removing your nipples and putting them back on. The technique plastic surgeons use to accomplish this is called transposition, in which the nipple stays fully attached to the breast - only the surrounding skin is moved. Because the nipple preserves its attachment, most women retain (or improve) nipple sensation, the ability to attain an erect nipple, and the ability to breast feed. Breast reduction surgery does come with risks, which should be fully discussed with your surgeon.

Breast Reduction: During and After Surgery

Anesthesia: General
Location of operation: Surgery Center or hospital.
Length of surgery: 2-4 hours
Length of stay: Overnight
Discomfort: Moderate. Anticipate 3-7 days of prescription pain medication.
Swelling and Bruising: Improve in 2-4 weeks.
Bandages: Will be removed in 1-7 days.
Stitches: Will be removed in 5-7 days or will be absorbable.
Support: You will wear a sports bra or ace wrap for 1-4 weeks. Avoid an under wire bra until your surgeon approves it.
Back to work: 1-3 weeks.
Exercise: May be resumed in 2-4 weeks.
Final result: Will be seen after the scars have matured, which will be about 1-3 years.

Dr. Loftus is the highly acclaimed plastic surgeon who authored The Smart Woman's Guide to Plastic Surgery, which is the #1 Best-selling book on plastic surgery in the United States. She has appeared on CNN, MSNBC, THE TODAY SHOW and THE VIEW, discussing all facets of plastic surgery. People from all over the world travel to Cincinnati to seek her care.

Loftus Plastic Surgery Center
Cincinnati, Ohio: 513-793-4000
Northern Kentucky (A suburb of Cincinnati):
859-426-5000

The Cincinnati office is located within 45 minutes of Dayton, Ohio
The Kentucky office is located within 45 minutes of Lexington, Kentucky.