Breast Reduction
at Atlanta Plastic Surgery, P.C.

For woman with particularly large breasts (macromastia), certain issues can arise that will affect their quality of life. Thus, women often opt for breast reduction surgery to alleviate problems such as back and neck pain, improper posture, skeletal deformities, and irritation rashes under the breast area – usually causing limited physical activity and lowered self-esteem.

Breast reduction is a procedure to remove excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin from the breasts, making them smaller, lighter, and firmer. The procedure takes two to four hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Often times, women with larger breasts experience stretching of the areola, or the dark area around the nipple. Thus, during the procedure, the size of the areola is often reduced – a procedure known as areola reduction.

Candidates for breast reduction surgery include women with macromastia, or those who are troubled by very large, sagging breasts that restrict their activities and cause them physical discomfort. Candidates also include women who wish to reduce their breast for aesthetic reasons – the surgery making it easier for them to fit into their clothes and giving them a more proportioned overall look. Women who wish to become pregnant are not good candidates for breast reduction surgery because pregnancy can cause the breasts to grow back to their original size and the surgery can make it difficult to breastfeed.

Techniques for breast reduction vary. The most common involves an anchor-shape incision circling the areola, extending downward, and following the natural curve of the crease beneath the breast. Many of the plastic surgeons at Atlanta Plastic Surgery utilize short scar techniques that reduce the size of the scar. These permit the removal of excess breast tissue without the need for the anchor-shape scar under the breast. Excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin are removed. The nipple and areola are then moved into their appropriate position. In most cases, patients will be asked to wear a surgical bra for some weeks after the surgery, but will be able to return back to work in about one to two weeks. Results will vary from patient to patient and will be discussed with your physician.

Breast reduction surgery is often done in conjunction with other surgeries in order for patients to achieve their desired look. Many times a breast lift procedure is needed to position the breasts higher on the chest. In some cases, liposuction around the armpits may be needed to remove additional excess fat. The surgeons at Atlanta Plastic Surgery will work with each individual patient to craft the most effective treatment plan for their needs.