Breast Reduction
Conveniently located to serve the areas of Newport Beach, CA
Breast reduction is a surgical procedure that helps decrease the size of large breasts. Many individuals undergo this treatment to enhance their body image and improve comfort. Large, heavy, pendulous breasts can contribute to neck and back pain. (1) They may also limit physical activity and affect self-esteem. Correction is achieved by lifting the breasts, tightening the skin, and removing excess tissue as necessary. This can be accomplished through a variety of methods, depending on the degree of lifting and reduction necessary. Dr. Amy Bandy specializes in breast lifts and reductions using minimal incision techniques to produce optimal results with minimal scarring. As one of Southern California’s leading plastic surgeons, Dr. Bandy and the team of experts at Bodies by Bandy uniquely understand the physical and emotional challenges associated with large breasts and recognize the importance of feeling beautiful and confident. If you are interested in exploring your breast reduction options, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Bandy today. If you have any further questions or prefer to schedule over the phone, please call our Newport Beach office at (949) 868-8839 to get started.
Contents
About Breast Reduction
Breast reduction is a procedure designed to reduce the volume and weight of the breasts by removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin. (1) The goal is to create a more proportional and aesthetically pleasing breast size that aligns with the individual’s body shape. Many people seek breast reduction for several reasons: to alleviate physical discomfort, to improve clothing fit, or to boost self-confidence. (2)
Throughout a woman’s life, hormonal changes, genetics, and lifestyle can lead to an increase in breast size. This not only causes physical issues but can also contribute to negative psychological effects.
Statistics indicate that breast reduction surgery is one of the most commonly performed plastic surgeries, demonstrating its effectiveness among patients seeking relief from these burdens. (1)
Benefits
Breast reduction offers women numerous benefits, all of which can improve their quality of life. Under the expertise of Dr. Bandy, our patients often experience advantages like:
- Pain relief: Reducing breast size decreases pressure on the back, neck, and shoulders, alleviating chronic pain.
- Improved posture: With lighter breasts, many patients experience better posture, leading to additional health benefits.
- Enhanced physical activity: Smaller breasts often allow for greater mobility and participation in physical activities without discomfort or limitation.
- Better clothing fit: Individuals often find it easier to shop for clothes and experience improved overall satisfaction with their body image.
- Psychological benefits: Many patients report increased confidence and a positive self-image following the procedure.
- Long-lasting results: Patients enjoy durable and favorable improvements in breast size and shape with proper care.
- Symmetry improvement: If one breast is larger than the other, reduction can enhance symmetry and balance in the breast shape.
- Reduced skin irritation: The removal of excess breast tissue may alleviate skin irritations under the breasts, enhancing comfort.
Candidates
Several different factors motivate patients to seek breast reduction. Some of the common reasons include back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, or pain from bra straps digging into the shoulders; inability to participate in exercise or sports; unproportionate body frame; inability to wear certain clothing; and sagging breasts. Whether the reason is aesthetic or medical, Dr. Bandy is an expert in achieving relief and satisfaction for patients choosing to undergo the procedure. Patients who regularly experience discomfort, difficulty, or embarrassment due to the size of their breasts make excellent candidates for breast reduction. Patients should also be in good overall health and have realistic expectations for the outcomes of their treatment. A consultation with Dr. Bandy will help determine each patient’s candidacy further.
Personal Consultation
A personal consultation is an essential step before any surgical procedure. During your appointment, Dr. Bandy will review your medical history and understand your cosmetic goals. A thorough examination of your breast tissue and skin will ensure a tailored approach to your treatment. Dr. Bandy will explain the different techniques available, discuss anesthesia options, and outline potential risks and complications associated with breast reduction.
Your comfort and understanding during this process are priorities, so all your questions will be answered. Together, we can create a plan that best fits your needs.
Take a moment to schedule your consultation today by submitting our online contact form. If you have any further questions, please call or text our Newport Beach office at (949) 868-8839 to gather the information you need.
Preparation
After your consultation, you will receive a list of preparation instructions that cater to your unique goals and medical history. Patients may begin a vitamin protocol provided by Dr. Bandy to aid their body’s healing. Patients who use nicotine will be asked to cease during their preparation and recovery. Medications or supplements with blood-thinning effects should be avoided, as should alcohol. Patients should also arrange transportation home from their procedure and fast for a set time before undergoing treatment.
Procedure
Breast reduction typically occurs under general anesthesia, ensuring you remain asleep throughout the surgery. Supplemental local anesthetic may also be administered to reduce postoperative discomfort. Depending on the technique chosen, Dr. Bandy will make carefully designed incisions. For traditional methods, this often includes an anchor shape; shorter techniques involve a vertical incision. (2) Excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin are removed according to the pre-surgical plan to achieve the desired breast size and shape. The nipples may require realignment based on the new breast structure. (2) Once the desired adjustments are made, the incisions will be closed using sutures. Dr. Bandy takes great care to minimize visible scarring. The entire procedure usually lasts around two to five hours, depending on individual circumstances.
Recovery
Recovery times vary and are dependent on a patient’s normal daily activities and the demands of their job. Most patients will be sore for 3 days after surgery and are advised to take about 3-5 days off work. We advise patients to refrain from strenuous activity for at least 3 weeks and avoid lifting anything heavier than 15 lbs for 4 weeks after surgery. A more detailed recovery estimate will be discussed during a consultation when more patient information is received. Specific recovery instructions are provided in the pre-op and post-op periods, depending on how the patient is healing.
After surgery, it is advised to avoid touching the incision area. Massaging the breasts following surgery is not required. A patient is usually prescribed an antibiotic and a pain medication. If a patient is undergoing general anesthesia, they are sometimes prescribed anti-nausea medication. All medications should be taken as instructed.
It is always recommended to have someone assist you in getting home or to your recovery center. If a patient does not have anyone who can assist them at home, we do have a post-operative recovery center that we work with that will pick up the patient from our facility.
Results
Results from breast reduction surgery can be significantly satisfying. Patients can expect a more proportionate breast size with improved aesthetics and comfort. Swelling may occur initially, but within several weeks, the final shape will become evident. Scars typically soften and fade over time, blending with the surrounding skin.
Corresponding Procedures
Along with a breast reduction, a breast lift may be performed to remove excess tissue and raise the breasts to a higher, more natural position on the chest. After a breast lift, the breasts sit higher and firmer on the chest. A breast lift alone does not provide a significant change in breast volume.
Cost of Breast Reduction in Newport Beach
The cost of breast reduction surgery is dependent upon the complexity of the case as well as the amount of breast tissue needing to be removed. During your consultation, Dr. Bandy will provide you with a quote for the procedure specific to your surgery.
Our practice also offers multiple financing options to help patients achieve their goals without a financial burden. If you are interested in exploring these options, our office staff would be happy to assist you. Some breast reductions may also be covered by insurance, especially if a patient’s primary care physician deems it medically necessary or if the breasts significantly interfere with one’s daily life.
Take a moment to begin planning your treatment today by scheduling your consultation. You can reach us online by submitting our contact form or by calling or texting our Newport Beach office directly at (949) 868-8839.
FAQ
What is the recovery timeline for breast reduction procedures?
The initial recovery phase may last one to two weeks, with full recovery taking a few months for final results.
Is recovery from breast reduction painful?
While discomfort can occur, most patients find it manageable with prescribed medications.
Will I be able to breastfeed after breast reduction?
Breastfeeding ability may be affected, especially if glandular tissue is removed. Discuss this during your consultation if this is a concern.
Are the results of breast reductions permanent?
While breast size reduction is long-lasting, weight fluctuations and aging can still affect the shape and size of your breasts over time.
How noticeable are scars after breast reduction?
Scarring will heal over time, but can be minimized with proper care. Techniques also focus on creating discreet incisions.
References
- Sachs D, Szymanski KD. Breast Reduction. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441974/
- Guridi R, Rodriguez JR. A Step-by-Step Approach to a Successful Cosmetic Breast Reduction. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open. 2019;7(4):e2117. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000002117
