A breast reduction, or reduction mammaplasty, is a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure that reduces the size of the breasts and reshapes and lifts the breast tissue. For women with overly large breasts, the weight and size of their breasts can interfere with daily activities and even cause shoulder and neck pain.
Large breasts can make exercising difficult, interfere with patients’ ability to find comfortable clothes and bras, as well as cause skin irritation around tight fitting bra straps. Having to hold up excessive weight can also lead to posture problems. After undergoing breast reduction surgery, you can do what you want without the feeling of self-consciousness about the size of your breasts.
The overall goal of this surgical procedure is to create smaller, lifted breasts that are still harmonious with the rest of your body shape.
Breast reduction candidates in Newport Beach, CA are close to their ideal weight leading up to surgery (or within 10-15 lbs). Patients who are obese (BMI 30 or greater) or who smoke are at significantly higher risk of complications from anesthesia, wound healing complications, or postoperative complications such as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). Because of this, Dr. Tehrani may conclude you are not eligible for this plastic surgery procedure until you quit smoking or arrive at a healthy, stable weight.
Good candidates for breast reduction or any other plastic surgery procedures should have realistic expectations about both the final results the surgery can provide as well as the requirements during the recovery process.
To ensure your comfort and safety, Dr. Tehrani perform breast reduction surgery under general anesthesia. Your surgery can take from four to five hours depending on the complexity of the case and our surgical plan. As cosmetic surgeons, Dr. Tehrani are both meticulous and able to see the big picture for the most natural-looking breast reduction results.
A breast reduction includes both removing and reshaping breast tissue as well as performing a breast lift. Breast lift surgery helps make breasts appear more youthful by restructuring tissue and repositioning the nipple. Part of this procedure also includes reshaping and reducing the areola size and repositioning the areola so that is centered on your breast.
During breast reduction surgery, an incision is made beneath the breast, hidden in the natural fold to reduce visibility. Then, excess breast and glandular tissue is removed from the sides and lower part of the breast. This procedure leads to a smaller and lifted breast with close cleavage and natural fullness to the upper portion of your breast. Excess skin may also need to be removed, depending on your beginning breast size and required breast reduction procedures. Your incisions will be closed carefully to create the best possible scar.
The use of an “internal bra” (a combination of meticulous internal sutures and/or a surgical scaffold) can be beneficial for some breast reduction patients. This technique can improve the longevity of your breast reduction by supporting the breast tissue during the healing process. If you would benefit from an “internal bra” along with your breast lift, Dr. Tehrani will discuss this in more detail.
During your consultation with Dr. Tehrani, you will receive an examination and review the treatment plan options available for breast reduction patients. During your comprehensive evaluation, Dr. Tehrani will confirm that you are a good candidate for breast reduction surgery and craft a plan that is customized for you, your body, and your goals. They can discuss the different techniques for breast reduction Newport Beach and where the scars will be placed for minimal visibility.
Finally, Dr. Tehrani will review any medications you’re taking that need to be stopped before surgery as well as vitamins and supplements that may be recommended for after surgery to help with the healing process.
The decision to have cosmetic surgery can be scary and stressful. With the information that you need to plan ahead, you can feel comfortable with your decision to pursue the relief that comes from a successful breast reduction.
If you’re tired of chronic back and shoulder pain or the numerous other daily hassles caused by your large breast size, cosmetic surgeon Dr. Tehrani are here to help. As experienced surgeons who have performed dozens of breast reductions in the Orange County area, Dr. Tehrani are committed to giving patients exceptional results and creating a calm, comfortable environment in all steps in the process. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Tehrani by calling us at (949) 304-2562 or filling out a contact form online.
Schedule a ConsultationBreast reductions at the Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery are performed in a state-of-the-art facility that is accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) to provide the highest standard of patient care and safety. This accreditation ensures that our surgery center meets professional standards for equipment, operating room safety, and staff and surgeon credentials.
Breast reduction is a personal and individual choice and is certainly not a one-size-fits-all kind of surgery. Dr. Tehrani will work to understand what you are looking for and communicate with you what you can expect a breast reduction can achieve. One way to help fine-tune your vision is to bring in photos of breast reduction surgery outcomes that you like or do not like so that Dr. Tehrani have a clear reference point for what will meet your goals.
Key to a quick and successful recovery after breast reduction is having a clear understanding of your restrictions and recommendations as well as having a good support system in place to help after surgery.
After your breast reduction, you should expect a relatively short recovery and minimal pain. Most breast reduction patients take one week off work and one week off from driving. You will need someone with you for the first 24 hours after your surgery but after that, you should not require help around the house. You will come home in a specially designed surgical bra, and Dr. Tehrani will advise you on how long you will need to wear it before going back to normal bras.
Many patients feel quite good at around one week after surgery, at which point they can return to work. You can start light cardio (such as walking or using a stationary bike) at around two weeks. You can resume more strenuous activity (such as running, high-impact cardio, weight lifting, and engaging your arms and chest) at around six weeks. You can shower the day after surgery and can typically be submerged in water at around six to eight weeks.
You will receive a clear postoperative medication schedule to mitigate any pain or discomfort you may feel after breast reduction surgery. It is common to feel mild tightness or soreness to your chest which may last for a week after surgery. It is also common to feel sensations such as burning, stinging, aching, or sharp/shooting pains in your breasts.
You will likely experience numbness or decreased sensation in your nipples and breasts in the days following your breast reduction, which is usually temporary. This feeling of numbness may also be accompanied by increased sensitivity and will gradually return to normal.
Your breasts typically take about 3 months to “settle” into their final position. As they settle, they will look softer and rounder and your cleavage will improve. It is helpful to wear soft, non-underwire bras until about the six-week mark.
In addition to these recovery guidelines, Dr. Tehrani will also guide you on how to take care of your scars so that you can have the most natural results from the procedure. Scar treatments include using scar cream or scar tape starting around six weeks after your surgery and continuing for at least one year.
Dr. Tehrani will monitor your progress through scheduled follow-up appointments or as needed when complications arise.
Whether you’ve just had a procedure or are planning one, this is your go-to resource for safeguarding your investment. Discover practical recovery guidelines, watch step-by-step video tutorials, and get answers from our experienced surgeons. From day one post-op care to long-term maintenance tips, learn how to keep your results looking remarkable for years to come.
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