Breast reduction, also known as a mammoplasty, is a surgical technique used to reduce sagging and heaviness of large breasts. The procedure reduces the breasts in size, and lifts them to a higher position on the chest. The procedure brings women excellent aesthetic results, as well as immediate relief from neck, back, and shoulder strain. In fact, breast reduction patients are among the happiest of plastic surgery patients.
The ideal candidate for a breast reduction will be a woman in overall good health, with large, heavy, sagging, or pendulous breasts. A consultation appointment with Dr. Vitenas will be scheduled to discuss aesthetic desires and further explain the procedure. At this time, it can be determined if the breast reduction is the right procedure for a patient’s needs.
A reduction mammoplasty will take from two to three hours to perform, using general anesthesia. Dr. Vitenas performs cosmetic breast reduction at the adjacent Houston Surgery Center. This accredited, outpatient surgery center is located within the same building as Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery.
To begin the mammoplasty, Dr. Vitenas will make an inverted T incision. This will circle the areola, run down the center of the breast, and horizontally across the breast crease. Next, fatty tissue, glandular tissue, and skin are removed. Liposuction is often used in the armpit region to achieve a better breast contour.
The recovery after breast reduction will take less than ten days. The breasts may ache initially but medication can help to control this. Most women are back at work in several days. Exercise should be postponed for six weeks after the mammoplasty.
Breast Reduction FAQ:
Q. What is a mammoplasty?
Breast reduction, or a reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure used to reduce the size of large breasts and lift them to a higher position on the chest. The procedure improves the sagging and heaviness associated with large breasts. It also provides relief from neck, back, and shoulder strain.
Q. Will I make a good breast reduction candidate?
If you are a healthy woman with large, sagging, heavy, or pendulous breasts, then you can potentially be an ideal candidate for the breast reduction procedure.
Q. Will I have a breast reduction consultation with Dr. Vitenas?
Yes, before scheduling a mammoplasty, patients are scheduled for a consultation appointment with Dr. Vitenas. Here, he will go over the breast reduction procedure and answer your questions. He will also perform a physical exam, and discuss your aesthetic desires. After reviewing before/after photographs of past breast reduction patients, it will be decided if the mammoplasty is right for your needs. If so, the exact cost will be determined and a personalized surgical plan will be created.
Q. Where is the mammoplasty performed?
Your breast reduction will be performed at the Houston Surgery Center. This outpatient surgical center is located adjacent to Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery.
Q. What is the price of a breast reduction procedure?
On average, a mammoplasty will range from $11,000 to $13,500. This price will vary according to the individual patient and the extent of surgical correction. The cost covers the surgeon’s fee, anesthesiologist’s fees, the surgical center, and all follow-up appointments. Contact the office to schedule a consultation, at which time the exact cost of your breast reduction can be determined.
Q. Is general anesthesia used during a breast reduction procedure?
Yes, under all circumstances, the breast reduction will be performed using general anesthesia.
Q. What can I expect during my breast reduction procedure?
To begin the breast reduction, a thin incision will be made around the periareola, down the breast, and horizontally along the breast crease in an inverted T. After the incision is made, excess glandular tissue, fatty tissue, and skin are removed. Liposuction may be used in the armpit area to achieve better breast shape and contour.
Q. How much time does a breast reduction take?
A mammoplasty takes about three hours to perform.
Q. Where are the breast reduction incisions placed?
Dr. Vitenas uses an inverted T incision, which circles around the periareola, down the center of the breast, and horizontally across the crease.
Q. Will there be scarring after a mammoplasty?
Yes, a scar will be visible along the incisions, following the breast reduction. These do fade somewhat in time, but will remain visible.
Q. Can I expect discomfort after my breast reduction?
The breasts may ache a bit after the breast reduction surgery, and some women are sore for
several days. Dr. Vitenas will prescribe medications to keep patient comfortable during this time.
Q. How long is the recovery period following a mammoplasty?
The recovery following a mammoplasty will take from one to two weeks.
Q. Describe the recovery after after a mammoplasty?
Normally, the recovery from a breast reduction will take less than two weeks. While there may be some tenderness after surgery, Dr. Vitenas will prescribe pain medications for a comfortable recovery. A special surgical bra will need to be worn for several days following the procedure.
Q. When can I return to work or school after my breast reduction?
Most women feel well enough to return to work in less than a week after their breast reduction surgery.
Q. Can I exercise after my mammoplasty?
Strenuous exercise and lifting of heavy objects should be avoided for the first six weeks following your breast reduction.
Q. What are the risks normally associated with the mammoplasty?
Dr. Vitenas’ breast reduction is a safe and effective surgical procedure. However, any invasive procedure has a risk of infection, bleeding, hematoma, and delayed wound healing. On the rare occasion a loss of nipple sensation may occur.
Q. Can I finance my breast reduction?
Yes, Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery offers medical financing through CareCredit. We also accept cash and all major credit cards. Contact our office or visit our financing page for additional information.
