About Breast Reduction Surgery
Oversized breasts can affect social and functional issues that can cause a lot of embarrassment and pain. Plastic surgeon Dr. Caroline Plamondon has helped countless women rebuild their confidence and enjoy an active lifestyle through breast reduction surgery. This cosmetic surgery at Caroline J. Plamondon, M.D. Cosmetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery in Providence, RI reduces excess fat, tissue, and skin to reshape the breasts to a more normal size. This surgery also reduces the size of the nipples and repositions them so they look natural with the new breast size. In most cases, a breast lift is combined with a breast reduction to give a tighter and more youthful appearance.
Ideal Candidates
If you have large, heavy breasts that get in the way of daily life, breast reduction surgery may be a good option to obtain the silhouette you desire. This surgery is an effective procedure for women who have stress and emotional anxiety or cannot lead an active life because of the size of their breasts. If you also suffer from ongoing skin rashes or irritations (as well as neck pain), this surgery can reduce these annoyances. It is important that patients are at a healthy weight, and find an experienced surgeon, like Dr. Plamondon, who understands their aesthetic goals and has the knowledge to produce a natural appearance.
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Surgical Technique
Breast reduction surgery is an outpatient treatment and is performed with general anesthesia. The duration of the surgery is dependent upon various factors, including what incision method is used, the overall technique, and finally, the degree of reduction. The nipple and areola repositioning will also be a factor. In most cases, liposuction is used for fat removal to decrease the breast size. During the consultation, all of these factors are addressed with Dr. Plamondon. The issue surrounding scarring is also thoroughly discussed as it is most likely to occur. However, advanced methods have led to a decrease in overall scarring. Depending on the complexity of the reduction, either an anchor or a vertical incision will be used. The breast tissue will be removed, and the remaining tissue and skin will be tightened.
What to Expect
After surgery, patients will be observed closely in our private recovery area and then released home to heal. A medical sports bra will be provided for several days that will improve blood flow to the breasts during the initial healing period. Within about a month, the breasts will settle and the post-op effects will go away. The majority of our patients at Caroline J. Plamondon, M.D. Cosmetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery remark that they feel less weighed down and more self-assured. After breast reduction surgery, you can buy the clothes you have always wanted and feel confident with your new figure. Remember, it is still important to stay at a healthy weight so the results are not negatively impacted.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does breast reduction surgery cost?
The cost of your breast reduction surgery will be discussed with Dr. Plamondon during your consultation. Once she has developed your personal treatment plan, it will be easier to estimate your costs, including anesthesia, fees for the surgical facility, and more. Breast reduction surgery often causes a significant improvement in a patient's life. We can also help you work with your health insurance company to see if they will cover some of your costs.
Will my insurance cover breast reduction?
In some cases, your health insurance may cover part of the cost of breast reduction surgery if it is deemed medically necessary. If you are considering using your insurance, tell Dr. Plamondon so she can help you with your insurance claim. You should also talk to your insurance company to find out if your specific policy may cover the surgery and what they need to approve it. Your insurance will most likely decide based on measurements, like your height, weight, body mass index (BMI), and body surface area.
Will my nipples be moved?
In most cases, the nipples and areola will be shifted up to a higher position on the breast during the surgery. If a large amount of breast tissue and skin are being removed, your nipple-areola complex may need to be moved. Dr. Plamondon will choose a technique, like the anchor incision so the nipple and areola can be moved higher on the breast. It is also possible to reduce the size of the areola with an areolatome. All of these options will be discussed during your consultation before Dr. Plamondon helps you decide on the best treatment plan to achieve your goals.
Can I breastfeed after a breast reduction?
Breast reduction surgery may affect your ability to breastfeed. While some women may still be able to breastfeed after a reduction, some cannot. It is difficult to predict whether your surgery will cause you problems with breastfeeding. For this reason, Dr. Plamondon recommends that patients be done having children or be willing to not breastfeed before having breast reduction surgery.
Can my breasts regrow after surgery?
After breast reduction surgery, your breasts can get bigger or smaller with significant weight changes. This is why it's helpful to be at a healthy, stable weight before your surgery. During your consultation, Dr. Plamondon will talk to you about the best ways to prepare for your surgery and what you should do afterward to ensure you are happy with your results.
Smaller Breasts, Larger Life
Dr. Plamondon has helped countless women reclaim their health for a more active life with breast reduction surgery. During your first visit at Caroline J. Plamondon, M.D. Cosmetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, Dr. Plamondon will discuss all of the options to reach your desired outcome and create a custom treatment plan to fit your needs. There is no need to continue living with the discomfort or lack of confidence that can sometimes accompany oversized breasts. We invite you to call our practice in Dartmouth, MA to learn more about this outstanding breast reduction treatment.