Breast Reduction

A breast reduction, medically called reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure performed to reduce the size and weight of the breasts. The breast reduction procedure is performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis, and is most commonly performed with a breast lift to create a smaller, more attractive breast, with relief from back and neck pain.

There are Three Types of Breast Reduction Procedures

Liposuction (No Scar) Breast ReductionIf reducing the breast size by 1/2 cup or 3/4 of a cup size is enough for a specific patient, liposuction alone can do that; however, most patients with large breasts are not good candidates for a liposuction reduction because of loose skin or the desire to be at least one or more cup sizes smaller. It can, however, only be done on patients with tight or fairly tight skin.

Two Surgical Breast Reduction ProceduresThe two main differences between the two breast reduction procedures are how the nipple is moved to a higher position and the shape of the scars. Almost all breast reduction procedures involve moving the nipple and at least part of the areola (the darker skin around the nipple) to a higher position. There are two choices:

• Anchor or Inverted T Breast Reduction

The anchor scar procedure or inverted T scar procedure is named for the shape of the scar on the breast after the procedure. This is the way breast reduction has been done for decades. It can be done by detaching the nipple and areola completely from the breast and placing it at the desired higher position as a skin graft. With this method there is little or no feeling in the nipple after surgery and breastfeeding is impossible.

• LeJour, Lollipop, Vertical, or Short Scar Breast Reduction

This method, which Dr. Gerut prefers, keeps the nipple and areolar complex attached to the breast tissue in an attempt to maintain nipple sensation and the ability to breastfeed. While there are no guarantees of retaining nipple sensation and the ability to breastfeed, there is at least a reasonable chance of it with the second method and virtually no chance of it with the first method. Furthermore, the resulting scar in this procedure is more attractive than the scar from the Anchor or Inverted T method.

Ideal Candidates for Breast Reduction
Healthy adult women who suffer from back and/or shoulder pain, rashes beneath the breasts, and social embarrassment due to very large breasts are good candidates for breast reduction surgery in New York at Dr. Gerut’s plastic surgery practice. Dr. Gerut’s breast reduction patients have been delighted with their results, experiencing not just a better shape, but release from neck and shoulder pain, as well as gouging in the shoulders from bra straps.

How Breast Reduction is Performed
A breast reduction is performed in the fully accredited and licensed surgical suite located in Dr. Gerut’s office in Hewlett, Long Island. Breast reduction patients benefit from the attention to detail and patient comfort and safety that result from Dr. Gerut’s many years with the same surgical team, including anesthesiologists.

Breast Reduction surgery takes usually takes three to four hours under general or sedation/twilight anesthesia. Using one of the methods noted above, which will be decided—in advance—at your consultation with Dr. Gerut, once the breasts have been reduced and lifted, a supportive bra will be placed on the patient.

Recovery from Breast Reduction
Recovery from a breast reduction varies among patients, but most of Dr. Gerut’s breast reduction patients find that a week to 10 days is an appropriate recovery time. The breasts will be sore, swollen and uncomfortable. Dr. Gerut will provide prescriptions for pain medication to alleviate discomfort. It’s important to wear the compressive bra 24 hours a day until Dr. Gerut sees you at your postop appointments and decides you can switch to another type of bra. Walking is the best exercise for the first 3-6 weeks. Dr. Gerut discourages patients from strenuous activities, including lifting and exercise, for a period of 6-8 weeks. Swelling and scar improvement will take several months, during which time you should avoid exposing the scars to sunlight or any irritating skin treatments.

If you’re concerned about large, heavy breasts that cause physical and/or emotional discomfort, board certified New York plastic surgeon Dr. Gerut is here to help you. Call us at 516-295-2100 or complete our online consultation form to learn how you can get the look you’ve always wanted!