Breast
Reduction for Sacramento, Granite Bay, & Coeur d'Alene
Breast reduction is one of the most commonly performed procedures in plastic surgery, as well as having one of the highest patient satisfaction ratings. Breast reduction can be thought of as a breast lift with the addition of removing breast tissue to decrease the overall size of the breasts. Breast reductions are most frequently performed in adult women. However, some adolescents and teens experience early and excessive breast development causing breast enlargement and breast droop.
These patients are also candidates for breast reduction. Breast reduction provides both a cosmetic improvement, as well as a functional improvement. A breast reduction provides the benefit of improving aesthetic breast shape and functional concerns. Many women with very large breasts suffer from neck and back pain. Therefore, reduction surgery reduces pain allowing for a benefit in daily activity.
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Breast Reduction Procedure Details
The incision patterns for breast reductions are essentially the same as for a breast lift. Typically, the Wise pattern incisions are utilized. Through these incisions, breast skin is removed as in a breast lift; however, additional areas of breast tissue are removed according to the preoperative size of the breasts and the ultimate goal of breast size postoperatively. Once the tissue has been removed, the skin is then re-draped around the new smaller breast and lifted into the appropriate position. This provides the patient with a significantly reduced breast size and improved breast shape and position.
Breast Reduction Candidacy
Candidates for breast reduction are women who experience physical and psychological discomfort due to oversized, heavy breasts. Dr. Coscia’s breast reduction patients often suffer from the following symptoms related to the size and shape of their breasts:
- Chronic back, neck or shoulder pain
- Skin irritation, rashes or infection under the breasts
- Grooves in the shoulders from bra straps digging into the skin
- Difficulty breathing
- Poor posture
- Shame or embarrassment due to unwanted attention from others
- Emotional distress or anxiety related to the size and shape of the breasts
- Inability to enjoy activities like sports and exercise
- Difficulty finding bras and clothing that fit the breasts
By eliminating excess tissue, fat and skin, breast reduction creates more proportional breasts that balance out the patient’s frame and flatter her body type. After surgery, patients experience freedom from the pain, discomfort and embarrassment of oversized breasts. Also, patients are able to exercise and play sports comfortably after healing from breast reduction.
What Procedures Can be Combined with Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast Reduction Gallery Granite Bay. Obviously, numerous procedures can be combined with any breast surgery. Frequently, liposuction can be performed on the lateral sides of the breasts and chest in order to improve the overall shape.
What Type of Anesthesia is Used for this Procedure?
Typically, general anesthesia is utilized for breast reduction. This allows the patient to be more comfortable throughout the procedure and is done quite safely.
Breast Reduction Recovery
As with most breast surgical procedures, you will be placed in a surgical bra to be worn for approximately six weeks. Frequently, a small drain is placed under each breast and left in place for a couple of days. Pain is actually quite minimal with breast reduction surgery. Therefore, most women can easily return to work within a week, and postoperative activity restrictions are slightly less aggressive than even with
Breast Reduction Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the incisions made for breast reduction?
There are several ways to perform the breast reduction procedure. One approach is through an anchor-shaped incision, also known as the Wise pattern. A circular incision is created around the edge of the areola, extending vertically down the front of the breast and horizontally along the crease of the breast.
Another option is to perform surgery through a lollipop-shaped incision, which is nearly identical to the Wise pattern but without the horizontal incision along the breast crease.
Will insurance cover breast reduction?
Most insurance companies cover part or all of breast reduction procedures that are deemed “medically necessary” and that meet certain requirements.
To qualify for insurance coverage, a patient must show that she experiences symptoms (e.g., back, neck or shoulder pain) related to the size and weight of her breasts. She also needs to have a certain amount of tissue removed from each breast — though that amount varies from insurance company to company.
How much does breast reduction cost without insurance?
The cost of breast reduction depends on factors such as the specific treatment plan and whether breast reduction is combined with any complementary procedures. Dr. Coscia’s team can provide a customized price quote during the initial consultation.
Can breast reduction be combined with breast lift?
Yes, by nature breast reduction includes a breast lift component. Excess skin and tissue is removed and the remaining tissue and skin are tightened and lifted into a more youthful position on the chest wall. The nipple-areolar complex is also lifted higher onto the breast in a perkier arrangement.
Is it possible to breastfeed after breast reduction?
It is possible, but not guaranteed. One of the factors that affect whether a woman can breastfeed after surgery is how the procedure is performed. Dr. Coscia can plan the surgery in a way that preserves the breasts’ ability to lactate. Women who are thinking of breastfeeding in the future should mention this to Dr. Coscia during consultation so he can take it into consideration when planning the surgery.
How long does it take to see results?
The breasts should look smaller almost immediately after surgery, but it takes a few months to see the final results. As the post-operative swelling subsides, the new breast size and shape should become apparent.
Is breast reduction painful?
During your surgery, you will be under anesthesia and not feel pain. However, some post-operative discomfort is common after breast reduction surgery. You will likely experience soreness, swelling, and sensitivity in the breast area during your initial recovery period. Pain can be managed effectively with prescribed medications and by following post- operative care instructions. Most patients find that discomfort diminishes significantly within the first few weeks after surgery.
How much tissue is removed during breast reduction?
The amount of tissue removed varies based on individual goals and anatomical considerations. During your consultation, Dr. Coscia will assess your breast size, shape, and discuss your desired outcomes to determine the appropriate amount of tissue to remove, ensuring a balanced and natural appearance.
At what age can I have a breast reduction?
Breast reduction can be performed on teenagers, especially if they experience significant discomfort or emotional distress due to large breasts. However, it’s generally recommended to wait until breast development has stabilized, usually around 17 or 18 years old. For instance, Dr. Coscia performed a breast reduction on a 17-year-old patient with juvenile breast hypertrophy, reducing her from a DDD cup to a full C cup.
Generally, there is no upper age limit for women wishing to have surgery, so long as they are healthy enough for surgery. Many women wait until they have finished having children to have this procedure. A thorough evaluation and discussion with Dr. Coscia are necessary to determine the appropriate timing for surgery in patients of any age.
Can my breasts grow again after breast reduction surgery?
For most patients, the changes achieved with breast reduction are considered permanent. While breast reduction removes excess tissue to reduce breast size, factors such as hormonal changes, weight gain, pregnancy, and certain medications can cause the remaining breast tissue to enlarge. Therefore, it’s possible for breasts to increase in size after surgery. Maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle can help preserve the results of the surgery.
What kind of scarring will I have after breast reduction?
Scarring is an inevitable part of any surgical procedure. The extent and location of scars depend on the surgical technique used. Common incision patterns include the “anchor” (inverted T). Dr. Coscia aims to place incisions in less visible areas and provides guidance on scar care to promote optimal healing. Over time, scars typically fade and become less noticeable.
Are there breast reduction options for men?
Yes, men experiencing enlarged or excessive breast tissue, a condition known as gynecomastia, can undergosurgery. This procedure removes excess fat and glandular tissue to achieve a flatter, more masculine chest contour. Dr. Coscia offers Gyncomastia surgery and tailors the approach based on the individual’s specific condition and goals.
Is Liposuction a Viable Option for Breast Reduction?
While liposuction-only breast reduction can be an option for individuals with good skin elasticity and primarily fatty breast tissue, it is not a realistic solution for many women. This technique involves smaller incisions, resulting in minimal scarring, quicker recovery, and preservation of the breast’s natural shape. However, it does not address excess skin, glandular tissue, or provide the significant reshaping and lifting often required in breast reduction procedures.
For patients seeking a more comprehensive transformation, traditional breast reduction techniques may be necessary. Dr. Coscia will carefully evaluate your unique anatomy and goals to determine if a less invasive method, like liposuction, is suitable or if a more tailored approach is required to achieve your desired results.
BREAST REDUCTION WITH DR. COSCIA
Learn More About Breast Reduction
If you are considering breast reduction surgery, we encourage you to call our office and set up a consultation with Dr. Coscia. If you are considering pursuing breast reduction surgery through your insurance provider, you will need to see your primary care physician first and be referred to our office for evaluation.
Dr. Coscia’s practices also serve Coeur d’Alene, ID, and the Rocklin and Loomis areas. Please fill out the form on this page to request a consultation or call our call his Granite Bay (916) 249-2863 or Sacramento (916) 318-5826 locations to request a consultation today.
*Individual results may vary