INTRODUCTION TO BAKERSFIELD BREAST REDUCTION
Breast reduction, also called reduction mammaplasty, is an elective surgical procedure that reshapes the breasts to make them smaller, lighter, and firmer. Reduction is accomplished by removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin. Breast reduction is performed on an outpatient basis.
You will be delighted to know that Dr. Dev is one of the few plastic surgeons in the country to perform a non vertical-scar breast reduction. No anchor scars! He also finds it unnecessary to use drains in most cases. This provides not only fewer scars after your procedure but a more comfortable recovery!
GOOD CANDIDATES FOR BAKERSFIELD BREAST REDUCTION
Here are the common reasons for breast reduction:
- Back, neck or shoulder pain caused by heavy breasts.
- Sagging breasts produced by their large size.
- Disproportionate body frame attributed to oversized breasts.
- Restriction of physical activity due to the size and weight of the breasts.
- Painful bra strap marks and/or rashes as a result of large breasts.
Large breasts can cause shoulder, neck and back pain as well as emotional and social anxiety. Our patients who take advantage of Dr. Dev’s breast reduction procedure find that they are able to lead healthier, more comfortable lives, in addition to enjoying a beautiful, more proportionate appearance. Although most cosmetic procedures are not covered by health insurance, do check with your family physician to see if breast reduction might be covered under your policy. Depending on your coverage, breast reduction might be a covered surgery if you have a documented history of back or shoulder pain, or rash underneath the breasts.
A woman over the age of 18 who is otherwise in good health and has reasonable expectations is likely to be a good candidate for breast reduction. Dr. Dev does perform breast reduction on women under the age of 18, if large breasts are creating social problems or difficulties in school. The adolescent patient will need careful workup of the endocrine system and appropriate pediatrician involvement.
Occasionally, liposuction alone can be enough to reduce breast size. The best procedure will be determined during your initial consultation visit with Dr. Dev at his Bakersfield plastic surgery office.
HOW BAKERSFIELD BREAST REDUCTION IS DONE
Breast reduction is usually performed on an outpatient basis at a Bakersfield hospital or state-of-the-art surgical unit while you are asleep under general anesthesia. Occasionally, depending on the extent of the procedure, Dr. Dev may recommend that you stay overnight.
Once anesthesia is induced, an incision is made that circles the areola, so that it can be repositioned higher on the breast once the excess tissue is removed. Dr. Dev then makes an incision in the crease of the breast (inframammary fold) and removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin. Next, he repositions the nipple and areola to a higher position, which is held in place by sutures.
A breast lift may also be needed to ensure that your reduced breasts are firm and natural after surgery. If you are not staying overnight, you will need a friend or family member to drive you home after your breast reduction procedure, as you will still be recovering from anesthesia.
RECOVERY FROM BAKERSFIELD BREAST REDUCTION
Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time. Bandages are applied right after surgery to aid the healing process and to minimize movement of your breasts. In the rare occasion that Dr. Dev has had to insert drains during your procedure, these are generally removed in just a few days.
Once the bandages are removed, a specialized surgical bra will need to be worn for several weeks. Although some patients report minor pain associated with breast reduction, this discomfort can be treated effectively with oral medication; some women find that ice packs are also effective. While complications are rare, you can minimize potential problems by carefully following the directions given by Dr. Dev after surgery.
Of all plastic surgery procedures, breast reduction results in the quickest body-image changes. Patients are pleased with the elimination of physical pain caused by large breasts as well as a better-proportioned figure, an enhanced appearance, and better fitting clothes. Please call our office today to schedule your breast reduction consultation.
