Greensboro, NC

336-907-7980

Breast Reduction

Breast reduction is a procedure designed to reduce the size of the breasts. This goal is accomplished by reducing the excess soft tissue of the breast, which is a combination of dense fibrous tissue and fat, and the skin envelope that covers it. Repositioning of the nipple in a more elevated, pleasing position is an important part of this surgery. This is a very popular procedure because it reduces breast size, improves breast shape, and lifts the breast into a more favorable position. Dr. Bowers finds this procedure to be particularly rewarding because it provides marked improvement in the appearance of the breast and the real possibility of symptomatic relief from back, shoulder, and neck pain.

At the initial consultation, Dr. Bowers will carefully obtain pertinent medical history, gain an understanding of the individual symptomatic complaints, and make an assessment of the amount of breast tissue to be removed. The degree of breast reduction is a highly individual and personal decision making process. Dr. Bowers makes certain that each patient is actively involved in this important part of the surgical planning. Patients are excited about this procedure because it has such a profound positive affect on appearance, quality of life, and symptoms. Dr. Bowers has had a vast experience with breast reduction surgery and shares his patients’ enthusiasm for it.

Best Candidate

A patient may be a good candidate for a breast reduction if she is in good physical and psychological health and has any of the following symptoms or concerns:

Neck, shoulder, and/or upper back pain attributable to large breasts
Rashes under large breasts
Inhibition of lifestyle such as difficulty exercising due to large breasts
Poor posture with bra strap grooves in shoulders
Breasts that are too large, too low, and difficult to fit into bras and clothing
Breasts that have a less desirable shape due to large size and low position

The Surgery

Dr. Bowers may modify the procedure depending upon your individual physical characteristics and goals. The general design of the procedure permits a balanced removal of the excess breast tissue that is the source of the symptoms and the excess skin that allows the breasts to sag into a low position. An incision is made around the areola (the pigmented tissue surrounding the nipple), from the border of the areola down to the crease under the breast, and in the crease under the breast. The diameter of the areola can be decreased to a more appropriate size for the reduced breast. The excess skin is removed in this lower portion of the breast near the crease. This approach avoids scarring in the upper part of the breast that would be visible in a bathing suit or some other types of clothing. It also provides ready access for the removal of excess breast tissue from around the nipple. Breast tissue will remain under the nipple in order to preserve the blood supply to it. The nipple remains attached but is now free to slide upward as the breast is lifted.

In an extremely large breasted woman it may be preferable to remove the nipple/areola and graft it in a higher position. Nipple grafting is not often necessary.

The Recovery

Some pain, swelling, itching, and bruising are normal during the early healing phase. The degree and duration of these unpleasant but temporary side effects varies from one patient to another. Dr. Bowers will prescribe pain medication and possibly a muscle relaxant to help counteract these effects. Most patients report minimal residual postoperative side effects within one to two weeks of surgery.

It may be beneficial to sleep with your back slightly elevated for a week or two following surgery. A sports bra will provide the best support after the first dressing change. It is necessary to limit physical activity, lifting, and stretching for several weeks in order to promote good healing of the incisions.

A board certified plastic surgeon will help this recovery process be as smooth as possible. Dr. Bowers and his staff are committed to a successful outcome for each patient.

The Risks

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with breast reduction. These risks include bleeding, infection, healing problems, scarring, anesthesia-related complications, sensation loss (including nipple sensation), asymmetry, and inability to breastfeed. Dr. Bowers will explain these risks to you in detail and advise you about ways to minimize their likelihood of occurrence.

Costs

A breast reduction is often covered by health insurance when performed to relieve symptoms caused by large breasts. A breast reduction can also be done for strictly cosmetic reasons. In a cosmetic breast reduction symptoms are not an issue. The motivating factor for a cosmetic patient is to improve the appearance of the breasts. Health insurance does not cover a procedure that is done only for cosmetic purposes.

Dr. Bowers and his experienced staff will guide you through the process of insurance approval for breast reduction. The majority of the breast reductions performed by Dr. Bowers are approved by insurance. Contact us at 336-907-7980 or Contact Us if you have questions about whether or not your situation would qualify for insurance approval.

Commonly Combined Procedures

Body contouring procedures such as abdominoplasty and liposuction can be done safely in conjunction with breast reduction. Additional procedures increase the magnitude of the surgery but allow for a single recovery and discounted fees on a second procedure. The combination of these procedures is a powerful means of improving overall body contour.

Get in Touch

Phone: 336-907-7980

1002 North Church Street, Suite 203

Greensboro, NC 27401

Schedule your consultation today.