In this month’s first blog, we detailed some of the reasons a woman would seek to have her overly large natural breasts reduced in size surgically. We discussed the expectations and benefits of these procedures, and how satisfying they can be for a woman who has been cursed with heavy, sagging natural breasts ever since puberty.
In these surgeries, Dr. Lipton reduces the breast size by two or more cup sizes. He typically also reduces the size of enlarged, stretched nipple/areola complexes.
So, what’s involved with breast reduction surgery?
How is breast reduction surgery performed?
Generally, Dr. Lipton uses one of two options for incisions with this procedure: the traditional incision or the vertical incision. During your consultation, he will discuss which method he thinks would work best for your unique situation. This procedure is performed with the patient under general anesthesia.
- Traditional incision method — For women with extremely large breasts where a good deal of sagging skin and tissue need to be removed, the traditional incision allows the most access. The incision, also called the “anchor incision,” circles the areola, runs down to the breast crease, and then follows the breast crease a few inches in each direction.
- Vertical incision method — This incision follows the same path as the anchor incision, without extending along the breast crease. The shape of this incision is more like a lollipop. It can work for women with moderately large breasts.
In both methods, excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin are removed. The nipples and areolae are usually moved to a higher position on the chest. The areolae can also be reduced in size. If the patient has more fatty tissue, Dr. Lipton may use liposuction as part of this surgery.
What will my scarring be like after reduction surgery?
There is no way around the scarring that results from this procedure. Incisions are long and incisions create scars. These are necessary to gain the access necessary to be able to remove as much breast tissue and skin as is needed. The scars will be pink for up to a year but will then begin to fade quite quickly. Most of Dr. Lipton’s breast reduction patients feel the scars are a worthwhile cost for being rid of their large, heavy breasts.
Do you have overly large natural breasts that are getting in the way of your life? You don’t need to live with that burden. Call Dr. Lipton at (972) 420-0023 and schedule a consultation for breast reduction.
