Breast Reduction Surgery

A breast reduction is a surgical procedure that reduces the size of the breasts through removal of fat and tissues. Female breast reduction is the fifth most common cosmetic surgery procedure, after liposuction, breast augmentation, eyelid surgery and nose surgery (rhinoplasty).

Who Should Get a Breast Reduction?

Women who are naturally busty or who have experienced significant breast changes after having kids are good candidates for breast reduction surgery. Additionally, other ideal patients for breast reductions include:
  • those in good health
  • those whose daily activities are regularly interrupted due to having large breasts
  • those who feel self-conscious about having a disproportionate shape
  • those who suffer persistent back and neck pain because of their large breasts.
Breast reductions are generally not recommended for pregnant women or women that do not have fully formed breasts. Also, since the surgery can impair breastfeeding, women who want to breastfeed after surgery should thorough discuss their risk of not being able to breast feed with their surgeons before undergoing a breast reduction.
 
Although breast reductions are usually performed on women, men with enlarged breasts can also undergo this procedure. Obese men or men suffering from gynecomastia, a condition in which hormonal imbalances cause male breast growth, are typically the types of men who get breast reductions.

Breast Reduction vs. Breast Lift

A breast reduction is different than a breast lift, though the two procedures can be performed together. Breast lifts usually involve the lifting and reshaping of the breasts without necessarily reducing the size of the breasts. Often, those seeking a breast reduction will want to also undergo a breast lift to compensate for the reduced volume of the breasts.

Breast Reduction Surgery Techniques

Surgeons can opt for one of four different types of procedures when performing a breast reduction, which are:
  • Inferior pedicle: Also known as the “keyhole technique,” the inferior pedicle procedure is one of the most traditional types of breast reductions. Although the inferior pedicle technique can sometimes result in slightly angular shaped breasts, it is very effective for reducing the size of extremely large breasts.

  • Free nipple graft: Used less frequently, the free nipple graft is effective for very large, drooping breasts. This technique requires the complete removal of the nipple and subsequent reattachment, which can result in serious nerve damage and loss of sensation. The free nipple graft can also preclude future breastfeeding.

  • Liposuction only: As one of the simplest types of breast reduction surgeries, the liposuction only method is good for breasts that are not as overly large. Because this technique is less complicated than the others, it has a quicker recovery time and tends to cost far less than other breast reduction surgeries.

  • Vertical scar: As the newer, most popular technique, the vertical scar breast reduction surgery produces the least scarring by making a “lollipop” incision.
When deciding what type of breast reduction surgery is right for you, discuss these different options with your surgeon and ask what your surgeon specializes in so that you can choose the best type of procedure for your body type and goals.

Cost of Breast Reduction Surgery

The cost of breast reductions varies depending on:
  • the experience of your surgeon
  • the risk associated with your case
  • the type of breast reduction you get
  • where you get the breast reduction (prices vary from city to city).
Generally, breast reductions cost around $5,000. Since many patients get breast reductions for medical (rather than cosmetic) reasons, some insurance companies will cover breast reductions. Have your surgeon contact the insurance company early on to submit the correct documentation in order to find out if your surgery will be covered.
 
Resources
 
The Breast Site (2007). Breast reduction statistics. Retrieved August 20, 2007, from the Breast Site Web site:
http://www.thebreastsite.com/breast-surgery/breast-reduction-statistics.aspx.