Breast reduction is designed for those women unhappy with large or pendulous breasts who wish to improve both their shape and decrease their size. They also may experience a variety of medical problems and discomfort associated with the excessive weight. Breast reduction, therefore, can be desired for both cosmetic reasons and for the relief of symptoms. Dr. Davis tailors his technique for each patient and emphasizes minimizing scars.
Techniques for breast reduction vary, but the traditional procedure involves an anchor-shaped incision that circles the areola, extends downward, and follows the natural curve of the crease beneath the breast. Dr. Davis removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin, and moves the nipple and areola into their new position. He then brings the skin from both sides of the breast down and around the areola, shaping the new contour of the breast. Stitches are usually located around the areola, in a vertical line extending downward, and along the lower crease of the breast. In some cases, techniques can be used that eliminate the vertical part of the scar. And occasionally, when only fat needs to be removed, liposuction alone can be used to reduce breast size, leaving minimal scars.
Following surgery, our patients are initially wrapped in a gently compressive wrap. This is switched to a supportive brassiere within the first few days. Patients are encouraged to wear a sports bra, or similarly supportive bra without underwire, continuously for 4 to 6 weeks following surgery. Swelling and bruising will be present after surgery and resolves gradually. Bruising usually resolves within 7 to 10 days. The results continue to improve over time as swelling continues to decrease and the incisions continue to smooth and fade.
Depending upon their occupation, most patients can expect to return to work in about a week. After 2 to 3 weeks, patients can resume non-impact lower body exercise. Four weeks after surgery, they can resume impact exercises and 6 weeks following surgery they can resume upper body exercise.
After a breast reduction, patients can not only expect to lose several cup sizes, but as a mastopexy, or breast lift, is an integral part of the procedure, they can expect to have a more youthful shape as well. Most patients can expect to be in the C cup range, give or take a cup size based on their preferences and anatomy.
Patients will generally have several appointments in quick succession following their surgery, with the first being on the first postoperative day. If drains have been placed, these will generally be removed in the first week. Dr. Davis and his staff are committed to the care and well being of every patient. Dr. Davis sees his patients frequently in the postoperative period and continues to follow their progress for an extended period. The staff is also available to patients for any future needs they may have.
