When people think about breast surgeries, the procedure that most often comes to mind is breast augmentation. That’s little surprise since it’s one of the most popular plastic surgeries in the US. But breast augmentation is just one side of the coin. While some women hope to increase the size of their breasts, there are many who are looking to reduce their breast size, and for a number of reasons.
Breast reduction might not get the attention that its sister surgery does. Yet it’s often the procedure of choice for the right candidate. Learn more about breast reduction and see if it’s right for you.
Who Should Consider Breast Reduction?
Women who want to increase their breast size might be surprised to know that there are many women out there who wish they had smaller breasts. As it turns out, big breasts aren’t always all they’re cracked up to be. In fact, large breasts can make it difficult to go clothes shopping and to find bras that fit. Their weight can also cause physical discomfort, including neck and back problems. If your breasts cause you pain, you might be a candidate for breast reduction.
Other women who might want to consider breast reduction include those who have very uneven breasts or women with breasts that point downward. You might be a candidate for the surgery if your bra straps leave deep indentations in your shoulders or if you have trouble breathing because of the weight of your breasts.
What Are the Benefits of Breast Reduction?
One of the biggest benefits of breast reduction is that it can help relieve back and shoulder pain caused by heavy breasts. The surgery can literally take a weight off of a woman’s shoulders.
Another benefit is that having smaller breasts can make it easier to find tops and dresses that fit. It can also help solve the problem of bra shopping. Better yet, breast reduction can also help improve your self esteem. Many women feel self conscious about their large breasts or they might have had to endure years of teasing or harassment because of them.
Does a Breast Reduction Provide Permanent Results?
The results from breast reduction are usually permanent, as the procedure is typically performed on adult women who have reached maturity and whose breasts aren’t growing any more. The breast tissue and fat that is removed during the surgery is gone for good.
It is important to note, though, that any weight gain after a breast reduction might cause there to be some changes in the appearance of the breast. For example, if you gain a few pounds, the fat cells in the breasts might increase in size, which can make the breasts larger.
How Long Does It Take?
Breast reduction surgery typically takes a few hours to perform. The exact length of the procedure depends on how extensive the surgery is and whether or not the surgeon performs liposuction along with it.
After surgery, you’ll want to set aside at least a week, if not two, for your recovery. Many women feel comfortable returning to work after a week, while some prefer to wait for two weeks. You’ll be given a special bra to wear during the recovery period and you might want to take prescription pain relievers to help ease the discomfort.
While you can resume regular activities after a week or two, it’ll be some time before you can start strenuous or vigorous activity again. Your surgeon might recommend waiting a full six weeks before you start working out after your breast reduction.
Will My Insurance Cover It?
Your insurance policy might cover breast reduction. Whether or not insurance covers the surgery depends on whether or not it is medically necessary. If you’re having a breast reduction to correct ongoing back or shoulder pain that is directly caused by the weight of your breasts, then your policy might provide coverage. But if you are having the surgery for a reason that’s considered cosmetic, insurance won’t cover it. It’s a good idea to check with your insurance provider first to get an idea of what type of coverage, if any, it will provide.
If you’re ready to learn more about breast reduction, schedule a consultation with Dr. Paul Vitenas, a leading plastic surgeon in Houston, Texas. Call 281-484-0088 to make your appointment today.
