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Breast Reduction in Beverly Hills, CA

What is Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction surgery, also known as "reduction mammaplasty," is a procedure designed to relieve the stress of excess breast weight for women by reducing the size of the breasts. Many women with excessively large and heavy breasts experience pain in their necks and backs, difficulty performing routine activities or exercise, and frustration with fitting into certain styles of clothing.

The Benefits of Breast Reduction

Breast reduction is one of the most rewarding cosmetic procedures performed by Dr. Charles S. Lee at Enhance® Medical Center. Following the procedure, many women report the following benefits:

Better Wardrobe Options

Many styles of clothing do not cater to a larger bust line. A breast reduction will create a more balanced hourglass shape that will boost a woman’s confidence both in and out of the fitting room.

Reduction in Back Pain

Heavy breasts can cause back pain and indentations in the shoulders from bra straps. Breast reduction will reduce the weight of overly large breasts and reduce the associated discomfort and pain.

Improves Physical Ability

Large, heavy breasts often impede performance in athletics as well as routine physical activities. A breast reduction can increase mobility and comfort to improve the overall quality of life for patients.

Relief from Skin Irritation and Rashes

Skin irritation and rashes can occur beneath the breasts when they are excessively large. Breast reduction reduces the weight and lifts the breasts so they no longer irritate the skin.

IDEAL CANDIDATES FOR BREAST REDUCTION

Candidacy for breast reduction is determined on a case-by-case basis. Ideal candidates for breast reduction are women who:

  • Are self-conscious of or emotionally uncomfortable with oversized breasts
  • Experience back, neck and shoulder pain or other physical discomfort due to heavy breasts
  • Are in good general health
  • Understand the risks of surgery
  • Have realistic expectations from surgery

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE INITIAL CONSULTATION

Women interested in breast reduction should schedule a consultation with Dr. Lee. The surgeon meets with each patient individually to discuss their candidacy and treatment options. During the initial consultation, Dr. Lee will:

  • Perform a physical examination, paying close attention to the size and shape of the breasts in relation to the rest of the body
  • Evaluate the patient’s medical history
  • Listen to the cosmetic needs and goals of the patient
  • Make recommendations for treatment (e.g., whether breast reduction and/or other cosmetic procedures are best)
  • Provide before-and-after photos of former breast reduction patients
  • Discuss the details of the procedure, including the risks and results to expect

BREAST REDUCTION PROCEDURE DETAILS

Breast reduction is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, Dr. Lee will create an incision between the areola and the natural breast crease. Through this incision, he will carefully remove excess tissue, reshaping the remaining tissue to create a more attractive and proportional size. Dr. Lee will also reposition the areola and nipple higher on the breast mound. Loose skin that was stretched out by the breast will be excised as needed. Once Dr. Lee is finished making all of the agreed-upon modifications, he will close the incisions with sutures and place a compression bra to support the healing breasts.

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER BREAST REDUCTION

Recovery

Swelling and bruising will be apparent for at least the first two weeks, after which time most patients feel comfortable returning to work. After six weeks, patients can resume exercise and regular physical activities.

Scars

Scars with breast reduction fade over time. Typically, there will be a scar around the areola, a vertical scar from the areola to the breast crease, and a scar along the breast crease.

Pain

Pain after breast reduction is minimal and can be managed with prescribed pain medication. Patients may be instructed to wear a compression bra, which will also help decrease pain and swelling.

Duration of Results

The results of breast reduction can last for many years. However, the breasts will continue to age naturally and as a result, may change shape, size and position over time. The best way to prolong results is to follow a healthy lifestyle (i.e., maintain a stable weight, eat healthily, exercise regularly, avoid smoking). Dr. Lee will provide more tips on maintaining results during an in-office appointment.

Breast Reduction FAQ

Who are the best candidates for breast reduction surgery?

Typical candidates for breast reduction desire to reduce the size of their breasts either for aesthetic reasons or to relieve pain and discomfort. Good candidates are those in good physical health who do not smoke. To find out if you are the right candidate, schedule a consultation at our plastic surgery clinic today.

Is breast reduction covered by insurance?

Some health insurance providers will cover the cost of breast reduction if the patient experiences pain and severe discomfort because of the size or weight of her breasts.

What are the risks of breast reduction surgery?

As with all plastic surgery treatments, there are risks involved with breast reduction. Although rare, bleeding, infection, changes in skin sensation, asymmetry, or poor wound healing can occur. Follow-up visits with Dr. Lee at his office in Beverly Hills will help to monitor and correct any complications.

Will breast reduction affect my ability to breastfeed?

It is best for patients to be finished having children prior to breast reduction surgery if they plan to breastfeed. While breast reduction will not completely alter the ability to breastfeed, there is a chance it may limit it to some extent.

When will final results be apparent?

Once swelling and bruising dissipate, final results may be apparent. Swelling can last anywhere from a couple of weeks to a couple of months after surgery. Scars will continue to fade over time, and protecting your scars from the sun will help prevent them from darkening.

Will I need a breast lift, too?

Some women choose to combine breast reduction with breast lift surgery. You may be a suitable candidate for a breast reduction and lift combination procedure if you have poor skin elasticity that will not conform or fit well over the smaller, newly contoured breast mound following breast reduction. Dr. Lee can determine your candidacy for the combination procedure during a personal evaluation.

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