Breast reduction surgery is for women who have large breasts and want to resolve one or more of the following associated problems:

• Chronic back, neck and shoulder pain
• Poor posture
• Skin rash under the breasts
• Deep grooves in the shoulders from bra strap pressure
• Restricted levels of activity
• Low self-esteem
• Difficulty wearing or fitting into certain bras and clothing

 

Breast Reduction Patient 3

"I was always self-conscious about the size of my breasts, especially since I matured early. I consulted with several plastic surgeons and chose Dr. Harris because of her artistic background and experience. I am delighted with my appearance and minimal scars."  ~Vicki - click here to read more>>

What's a good age to have a breast reduction surgery?

You can have breast reduction surgery at any age, but it's generally advisable to wait until you're at least age 20, by which time your breasts are likely to be fully developed. However, sometimes surgery is performed in teens who suffer significant emotional and psychological effects of having too-large breasts.

Should I have a breast reduction before or after having children?

If you want children, consider postponing breast reduction surgery until you've had them. Changes to breast tissue during pregnancy could alter your surgical results. Also, after the surgery, breast-feeding may be difficult.

What kinds of incisions are used in a breast reduction?

Our doctors specialize in the vertical or 'minimal scar' incision. This incision is a scar around the nipple and another incision leading down in a straight, vertical line resembling a 'lollipop' shaped scar. Women with extremely large breasts would need the more standard incision which resembles an 'anchor'. This means that the scar is around the nipple, a straight vertical line and a horizontal incision along the inframammary crease.

Is the nipple left attached during the breast reduction procedure?

In the vast majority of breast reductions, the nipple is left attached to the breast. In the minority of breast reduction patients in which the patients have extremely, extremely large breasts, occasionally the nipple would need to be removed and reattached as a 'free nipple graft'.

What information will I receive during the breast reduction consultation?

• Provide a detailed description of the procedure and its results, including likely scarring
• Discuss your expectations for breast size and appearance after the surgery
• Examine and measure your breasts
• Take photographs of your breasts for insurance pre-approval and for reference during and after the surgery
• Discuss factors that may affect the surgery, such as your age, the size and shape of your breasts, and your skin condition
• Discuss the positioning of the nipple and areola — the circular, pigmented area around your nipple
• Explain the type of anesthesia used
• Determine where the surgery will be performed — in a hospital or outpatient surgery center
• Discuss costs and insurance considerations
• The extent of surgery — specifically, how much breast tissue will be removed — depends on many factors, including the breast size you hope to achieve and the guidelines followed by your insurance provider.

Please contact the Center for Cosmetic Surgery today for more information on breast reconstruction.

Center For Cosmetic Surgery
Dr. Elizabeth S. Harris
540 N. Madison Oak Suite 400
San Antonio, TX 78258
Phone 210.545.4848 / Fax 210.545.5565
email us