Breast reduction patients are usually looking for relief from the physical symptoms caused by the excessive weight of large breasts. The surgery usually can solve these problems as well as improve the size and shape of your breasts. Following breast reduction, your breasts will be more proportional to the rest of your body, and your clothes will fit you better. Usually breast reductions are done without breast implants.
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CANDIDATES FOR BREAST REDUCTION

Breast reduction can be performed at any age, but it is usually recommended that you wait until breast development has stopped. Many women decide to undergo this procedure  before having children and feel that they can address any subsequent changes later. If you plan to breast-feed in the future, you should discuss this at the time of your consultation. During the consultation, you will be asked about your desired breast size as well as anything else about your breasts that you would like to see improved. This will help Dr. Chavez to understand your expectations and determine whether they realistically can be achieved.

EVALUATION FOR BREAST REDUCTION

Dr. Chavez will examine your breasts and take measurements during your consultation. The size and shape of your breasts, the quality of your skin, and the placement of the nipples and areolas will be carefully discussed.
You should tell Dr. Chavez if you plan to lose a significant amount of weight, particularly if you have noticed that your breasts become smaller with weight loss.
The most common method of reducing the breasts involves three incisions. The incisions are similar to a breast lift and part of a breast reduction is to lift the breast as well. One incision is made around the areola. Another runs vertically from the bottom edge of the areola to the crease underneath the breast. The third incision follows the natural curve of the breast crease. After the surgeon has removed excess breast tissue, fat and skin, the nipple and areola are shifted to a higher position. The areola, which in large breasts usually has been stretched, also is reduced in size. Skin that was formerly located above the nipple is brought down and together to reshape the breast. The nipples and areolas remain attached to underlying breast tissue, and this allows for the possible preservation of sensation. The ability to breast-feed may also be preserved by this method, although this cannot be guaranteed.
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SURGICAL RISKS

Fortunately, significant complications from breast reduction are infrequent. Every year, many thousands of women undergo successful breast surgery, experience no major problems and are pleased with the results. Anyone considering surgery, however, should be aware of both the benefits and the risks.
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PREPARATION FOR BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY

Depending on your age, Dr. Chavez may recommend a baseline mammogram or ultrasound before surgery. This will help to detect any future changes in your breast tissue. Following breast reduction, you will still be able to perform breast self-examination. Breast reduction surgery will not increase your risk of developing breast cancer. If you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well in advance of surgery.
Your surgery will be performed on an inpatient. you will need someone to drive you home and to stay with you for the next day or two.
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YOUR BREAST REDUCTION SURGICAL EXPERIENCE

The goal of Dr. Chavez and her entire staff is to make your surgical experience as easy and comfortable for you as possible.
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YOUR BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY DAY

A general anesthetic is administered, so that you will be asleep throughout the procedure. When your breast reduction surgery is completed, you will be taken into a recovery area where you will continue to be closely monitored. Gauze dressings will be placed on your breasts and covered with a surgical bra.
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HOW WILL IT LOOK AFTER BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY?

Generally, stitches will be removed in in about a week. They will be swollen and it will take time for them to develop their final shape. They will remain this way for many months following surgery.
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YOUR BREAST REDUCTION RESULTS

Your surgery will result in your breasts being smaller and firmer. You may find greater enjoyment in playing sports and in physical activity. The incisions from your breast reduction surgery will heal and fade over time. They are in places easily concealed by clothing, even low-cut necklines.
Breast reduction often makes a big change in your appearance. Most women, become very comfortable with their smaller breasts and feel very pleased with the results of surgery. In fact, the level of satisfaction resulting from breast reduction is among the highest of any plastic surgery procedure.