Breast Reduction
Breast reduction surgery reduces the size of large pendulous breasts and lifts them as well to give a more attractive appearance and also reduce or alleviate symptoms such as neck and back pain, shoulder grooving from bra straps, and skin breakdown underneath the breasts. Perhaps as much as any other surgery Dr Platis performs, breast reduction can change a woman’s lifestyle by allowing her to be more active, less self-conscious, and more positive in general.
Ideal Candidates for Breast Reduction Surgery
Breast reduction surgery can help any woman who feels that her breasts are too large. This may be purely for cosmetic reasons in the case of minor reductions, or for serious health reasons such as chronic neck and back pain in the case of more significant reductions. Dr. Platis will sometimes even perform breast reduction surgery for high school aged young women who have had drastic enlargement of their breasts over a short period of time. This can be a very distressing condition for a young woman and can have serious effects on her self-esteem and confidence. If parents are in agreement and the patient is mature enough to participate in the decision Dr. Platis will sometimes perform this much needed procedure.
How It’s Done
Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Platis first makes markings with the patient awake preoperatively. These markings are used as a guide during the time of surgery to insure that optimal symmetry is achieved. Excess breast tissue is removed and remaining skin is lifted and tightened to achieve a lighter, tighter, perkier breast with final size in accordance with the patient’s wishes. The nipple is not separated from the breast tissue at any time (except in rare cases with enormous reductions) although this is a common misconception. Upon completion of the surgery the patient is placed in a fluffy dressing that remains in place for several days.
Recovery
Patients return home on the day of surgery. Although there is usually some soreness for the first 2-3 days, it resolves quickly and you should be back to normal daily activities within the first week. Dr. Platis recommends that you refrain from strenuous activity for two weeks. Incision scars will fade gradually and scar fading gel is often recommended.