Breast Reduction
in Baltimore, MD
Our highly trained plastic surgeons offer a variety of breast reduction options to patients in Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Annapolis and the surrounding areas of Maryland. While many women desire larger breasts, others may experience physical and emotional discomforts because of them. You can find relief from overly large breasts with a breast reduction procedure for smaller, more balanced breasts.
What is a Breast Reduction Procedure?
A breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess breast tissue, excess fat, and glandular tissue from a woman’s breasts to create a more proportional breast size. It may be appropriate for patients with excessively large breasts who experience back neck and shoulder pain, breast pain, skin irritation, or shoulder pain caused by bra straps. By reducing breast weight, the procedure can make physical activity more comfortable, improve body image, and help clothing or a support bra fit more comfortably.
During the reconstructive surgery consultation, a board certified plastic surgeon reviews the patient’s medical history, including any family history, previous surgeries, medications, and changes related to pregnancy or weight gain. The surgeon also performs a physical examination to evaluate breast size, skin quality, nipple position, breast composition, and areas of fatty tissue. This assessment helps determine whether breast reduction is appropriate and allows the surgeon to develop an individualized treatment plan.
The operation is generally performed under general anesthesia. Using advanced surgical techniques, the surgeon carefully removes unwanted tissue, reshapes the breasts, and repositions the nipple and the dark skin surrounding it above the breast crease for a lifted, natural-looking contour. A breast reduction may be performed on one or both breasts and can provide both functional relief and aesthetic improvement. Many patients experience long-lasting results, although aging, pregnancy, and future weight fluctuations may affect breast shape over time.
Benefits of Breast Reduction Surgery
A breast reduction can help patients find relief from the following discomforts that are associated with overly large breasts:
- Neck pain, shoulder pain, and back pain
- Indentations (grooving) in the shoulders from bra straps
- Irritation and itching under the breasts
- Difficulty finding clothes that fit right
- Discomfort when exercising due to overly large breasts
- Feelings of self-consciousness due to overly large breasts
Breast reduction surgery can reduce discomfort, increase your range of motion, and make it easier to perform your normal routine. We see a significant number of patients who are self-conscious about their large chests. These women often feel as though others are staring or gawking at them, and may even avoid going out in public because of it. Following a breast reduction, most find that the amount of unwanted attention greatly decreases.
Who is a Good Candidate for a Breast Reduction?
Good candidates for breast reduction are those who experience the above concerns that come with having overly large breasts. While some women have naturally large breasts, others may experience enlarged breasts after pregnancy and breastfeeding. In this case, the breast reduction procedure should generally be delayed until six months after pregnancy or the completion of breastfeeding.
How is a Breast Reduction Performed?
A breast reduction is performed by reducing excess skin and breast tissue to make the breasts smaller. In some cases, liposuction is also recommended to contour the areas surrounding the breast. The exact technique and incisions will be explained to you when you come in for your initial consultation.
Recovery After a Breast Reduction
After a breast reduction procedure, some swelling and discomfort can be expected. This typically lasts for about 1-2 weeks and patients will want to take some of this time off work to properly recover at home. Patients should also avoid lifting heavy objects or any other movements that may strain the chest muscles for about 4 weeks. Exercise can be gradually introduced after this time, but not until given the OK from your surgeon. It is recommended that all patients wear a surgical bra to support the breasts after surgery.
Your Consultation in Baltimore, MD
If you are anxious to look and feel your best, contact our highly trained plastic surgeons today to schedule your breast reduction consultation. We proudly serve patients from Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Annapolis and the surrounding areas of Maryland.
