breat-reductionBreast Reduction

Among the many breast enhancement cosmetic surgeries, Breast Reduction is one that many people haven’t heard of. Wanting to go up a cup size is a dream for a woman whose breasts are not as feminine and voluptuous as she would like them to be. But who would want to make their bust smaller?

While you may find it hard to believe why some women would opt for breast reduction surgery, such a procedure is definitely one that is sought after in the field of cosmetic surgery.

Southwest Plastic Surgery Practice’s award winning surgeon, Dr. Frank Agullo, provides specialized breast reduction advice and services for those who want a well-proportioned figure and consequently, a high self-esteem. Dr. Agullo tends to patients from regions like Alamogordo, Albuquerque, Silver City and Ruidoso to make sure every woman gets the best treatment she deserves for taking such a bold step towards a happier life.

Patients who go through Breast Reduction are known to be disturbed by the excessive weight and disproportionate size of their breasts. For instance, if you are a petite woman with a cup size larger than DD or E, you may not be happy with your body shape. A typical Breast Reduction patient is looking for physical and mental relief from constant unhappiness about the way they look and the hindrances they face because of an extra large bust line even if it is a genetic hand-me-down.

Are You Fit For Breast Reduction?

A woman opting for breast reduction will be able to identify one of the following prominent characteristics of her breasts. While they may vary from case to case or be present in a combination, these attributes justify a breast reduction surgery to make sure you have a healthy and strong body.

You are the right candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery if:

  • You have extra large breasts (exceeding DD and E cups) that weigh down on your body.
  • You experience back, shoulder or chest pain because of the heaviness of the mounds.
  • You have developed a skin condition under the natural curve of the breast because of constant sagging.
  • You feel embarrassed and have low self-esteem because your body is out of proportion.
  • Your bra keeps digging in your skin or wires break often due to the weight of the breasts.
  • Your breasts have started to sag in young age because of their weight.
  • Your breasts are pendulous and have very little elasticity.
  • The nipples and areola point downwards due to the weight of the breasts.
  • One breast is larger or smaller than the other.
  • You face challenges doing routine work like looking after children or taking part in exercise routines i.e. the size of the breasts limit mobility and agility.

It may be an emotional ride leading a normal and happy life with extra large breasts. Therefore, Dr. Agullo provides individualized care for each patient choosing to go through such a surgery. Reassurance of a better self image, heightened confidence, guarantee of the use of the latest equipment and technology and Board Certification by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) is what makes the doctor at Southwest popular for cosmetic breast surgeries.

Breast Reduction Techniques

With the advancements in technology, a number of Breast Reduction techniques have been developed. Over the years, some have taken precedence over others due to ease, convenience and the possibility of no scarring.

Which technique your doctor uses on you, depends on variables like the size and shape of your breasts, the extent of reduction needed and the road to recovery you want to opt for. Dr. Agullo, trained by Mayo Clinic, has talked about these techniques in various conferences world over; therefore, he has lots of hands-on experience and knowledge to assist you through this change.

There are a few popular types of Breast Reduction Techniques.

  • 3 Incisions: A process also known as the Anchor Incision, the 3 incision technique reduces the breasts by placing incisions around the areola, vertically from the areola to the crease under the flesh and the third along the contour of the breast. Using these cuts, your surgeon takes out excess fatty tissue and skin to reduce the size of the mounds, give shape and lift them to an ideal position.
  • Liposuction: This technique is used to reduce fatty, tissue build-up in the chest. It is directed towards the area close to the underarms.
  • Detachment of Nipples and Areola: While the nipples and areola are meant to stay attached to the breast throughout the surgery; in some cases, they have to be detached and then repositioned to carry out the reduction seamlessly.

The Various Steps Involved in a Breast Reduction Surgery

Once you decide to go for Breast Reduction Surgery, knowledge of the following steps is a must. From pre-operation to post-operation, all the information should be on your fingertips so that you feel reassured and confident before bringing a drastic change in your life.

Consultation: the very first step is the consultation phase. Set an appointment with the surgeon at Southwest Plastic Surgery Practice for a private consultation during which you can let out your problems and concerns regarding the procedure. Dr. Agullo understands the emotional aspect of a Breast Reduction surgery and addresses all private concerns and issues.

If you are planning to get pregnant or nurse a child, make sure your surgeon is aware of this situation. A lot of women prefer to postpone breast reduction till after they are done with having children because pregnancy can have unpredictable effects on a woman’s body. Similarly, also consult with the doctor on the possibility of breastfeeding after the reduction surgery.

Evaluation

The evaluation stage is the most important part of the pre-surgery preparation. During this step, the surgeon assigned to you will conduct a thorough examination of your breasts. Information like the size, shape, extent of sagging, quality of skin and medical history will be noted down manually and via snapshots. During the evaluation, you should share with your doctor the reservations you have and the changes you want to see. Don’t worry; the surgeon will be mindful to keep your wishes as top priority.

Schedule Surgery Appointment

Once all the preliminary work is done, the surgeon will schedule an appointment for your breast reduction. Make sure you pick a date at which you can take a leave from work and get ample of rest.

Personal Preparation

After a date is confirmed for the surgery, you should begin preparation. Quit smoking at least 2 weeks before and ask a friend or family member to assist you in driving up to the clinic and back after a few hours. It is best to keep aside a few essentials in a small bag that you can bring with you on the day of the surgery.

Surgery

The night before surgery, do not eat or drink anything past midnight. Because Breast Reduction is an out-patient procedure, you will be allowed to leave only after a few hours.

Keeping the chest area clean and free of lotions and creams is essential. So is carrying a button down shirt that is easy to put on before and after the surgery.

Recovery

Breast Reduction is one of the least complicated breast-related procedures; therefore, recovery post-surgery is not hard. Nonetheless, it is imperative that you give your breasts some time to heal. They will appear sore and feel sensitive for 3 to 4 days; however, this is normal. If you feel lightheaded, dizzy or nauseous, follow the instructions given by Dr. Agullo strictly.

During the recovery phase, discoloration and swelling is usually seen. Therefore, wait a few weeks before you decide how effective the breast reduction was.

Follow up & Care

If your surgeon has inserted drainage tubes, follow-up procedures and appointments will be a must. Make sure you attend these and take all instructions seriously. After the surgery, the doctor will give you a special bra to wear 24/7. Till instructed, stay clear of any fancy bras and keep this special bra on all the time.

Risks Associated with Breast Reduction

Just like all medical procedures have some risks and side effects, breast reduction has some reactions that need to be kept in mind. These include:

  • Loss of sensation
  • Infections
  • Blood clots
  • Revision surgeries
  • Adverse reaction to anesthesia
  • Asymmetrical breast or nipple heights

Does Insurance Cover Breast Reduction Surgery?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions regarding breast reduction or any kind of breast cosmetic surgery for that matter. Because of the kind of equipment, technology and precision needed in breast related surgeries, their cost is often the single most daunting factor for a lot of women.

However, you need to understand that this cost justifies the use of the best methods and a surgeon who has ample experience and is certified by the ASPS. A typical breast reduction surgery, with no added procedures and complications, costs $5,600 – $8,000, depending on the amount of reduction needed.

In many cases, breast reduction surgery is often covered by insurance companies. For this, a patient’s medical history will be analyzed to confirm that she is plagued with physical and mental distress because of the extra-large size of the breasts. Dr. Agullo will work with your insurance company directly to get the procedure pre-approved.