What is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Have you always been unhappy with your overly large breasts? While full breasts can be an asset, oversized breasts can cause a variety of physical problems and create self-consciousness by drawing unwanted attention. Breast reduction surgery at The Plastic Surgery Group in Albany can free you from physical and emotional pain and help you move more freely and confidently.
Ideal Candidates for Breast Reduction Surgery in Albany
Women choose breast reduction for a variety of reasons. This procedure may be right for you if you experience any of the following:
- Your breasts are too large for your frame.
- You are self-conscious about the size of your breasts.
- You frequently have neck, shoulder, or back pain because of the weight of your breasts.
- You have chafing or rashes under your breasts.
- One of your breasts is larger than the other.
- Your physical activity is limited by the weight and size of your breasts.
HOW IS BREAST REDUCTION PERFORMED?
Our plastic surgeons in Albany usually perform breast reduction surgery using an anchor-shaped incision. This incision resembles the shape of a boat anchor as it traces the areola, drops down, and follows the curve along the breast crease. Through the incision, your plastic surgeon reduces the extra tissue, fat, and skin that causes your breasts to be too large. Your surgeon also repositions the nipple and areola and shapes the breasts around them, giving you a new, firmer contour. Sometimes, liposuction is used to reduce extra fatty tissue that is under the arms.
When the breasts are very large or hang extremely, both the nipples and areolas are usually repositioned through grafting.
WHAT IS RECOVERY LIKE AFTER BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY?
Keep in mind that everyone heals at their own rate; however, you can expect your recovery process to generally proceed as follows:
FIRST WEEK
For the first day or 2 followings your surgery, you may have a drainage tube inserted to eliminate blood and fluids more effectively from the incision areas. Most patients experience some discomfort and pain for about 3 to 7 days, which can be controlled with prescription medication. Initially, you will need to wear an elastic bandage held in place with a surgical bra.
3 WEEKS
In most cases, stitches are removed within 3 weeks after surgery.
SEVERAL WEEKS
You will need to continue wearing the surgical bra for several weeks when the swelling and bruising subside. As you heal, you will continue to feel less and less discomfort. But you may feel achy for a few weeks following your surgery. During this time, you should not do any heavy lifting or strenuous pushing. Keep in mind that you will have less energy for a few weeks following your surgery and that you need to reduce your physical activity to help your body recover. Follow the directions of your plastic surgeon regarding returning to work, exercise, and sexual activity.
ABOUT SCARRING
Scarring is inevitable with breast reduction surgery, although your plastic surgeon will make every effort to conceal and minimize the incisions. While the scars will fade over time, they will not go away completely. It is very important to follow your plastic surgeon’s directions before and after surgery to promote optimum scar healing.
WHAT ARE POTENTIAL RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS?
After breast reduction surgery, some Albany patients might experience a temporary infection or some bleeding or have a reaction to the type of anesthesia used during the operation. These conditions are rare, and your plastic surgeon will give you detailed instructions to follow to help avoid them. Other possible risks and complications include:
- Some patients may notice small sores in the nipple area, which can be treated with a prescription cream.
- Because breast reduction surgery eliminates a good number of the ducts that produce breast milk, patients may not be able to breastfeed.
- Breast reduction patients may lose sensitivity in the breasts and nipples.
WILL INSURANCE PAY FOR MY BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY?
In some cases, insurance will pay for breast reduction surgery if you are experiencing physical pain or other conditions. You should discuss this with your plastic surgeon during your consultation in our Albany office. You can also contact your insurance provider for more information.
HOW LONG DOES THE SURGERY NORMALLY TAKE?
Breast reduction surgery usually takes 2 to 4 hours to complete.
WHERE WILL THE SURGERY TAKE PLACE?
Breast reduction surgery is conducted in a hospital or surgery center operating room, and you will either be admitted as an outpatient or perhaps have an overnight stay.
WILL I LOSE FEELING IN MY BREASTS?
Sometimes patients experience temporary numbness or loss of sensitivity following breast reduction surgery. In most cases, this condition will correct itself during the healing process, although permanent sensitivity loss can occur. Ask your plastic surgeon about this concern during your consultation in Albany.
How Much Does Breast Reduction Cost in Albany?
The cost of breast reduction surgery ranges from $7,500 to $8,000. Our financing options can make the procedure fit within most financial situations. For the most positive surgical outcome, we recommend considering your surgeon’s credentials over issues of cost.
Schedule a Breast Reduction Consultation Today
Schedule your consultation for Breast Reduction in Albany– contact The Plastic Surgery Group and set up your appointment. During your appointment, you will be able to ask questions and bring up any concerns you may have about the procedure. Contact us today to get the look you’ve always wanted!
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