9 Things to Know If You Are Considering Breast Reduction

If you have disproportionately large breasts, you may have heard about breast reduction surgery to take the strain off your neck and back. This plastic surgery procedure can improve your quality of life by making it easier to work out and wear the clothes you love and more.

But before you commit to this procedure, it’s vital to gather as much information as you can, some of which we highlight below.

Insurance May Cover A Breast Reduction

Before you go to a plastic surgeon to talk about breast reduction surgery, speak to your insurance company first. Most health insurance policies don’t cover plastic surgery, but breast reduction surgery may be considered medically necessary.

If that is the case, it’s possible that the surgery could be covered by your policy. However, you will need to discuss your case with your insurance company in detail, and your surgeon must provide plenty of evidence that the procedure is necessary for your health.

Cup Size Can Vary

Your surgeon probably won’t mention what your breast cup size will be after the procedure during your breast reduction consultation. That’s because cup size varies widely by bra manufacturer, so it’s hard to say in that sense what the result will be.

Instead, your surgeon may discuss how many grams of breast tissue they may remove; keep in mind that one pound equals 454 grams. This may give you an idea of what your final size will be.

Post-Op Appearance Can Be Surprising

After your breast reduction and the bandages are removed, you may be surprised at how your chest looks. Many women experience bruising and discoloration immediately after surgery, and you will have many stitches, too. All of this is normal!

Patients may find that they have swelling and bruising for up to 10 days after the procedure. But after that, your breasts will improve in their appearance, and you can see your ultimate results about three months after the procedure.

Sleeping Can Be Challenging

The first few days after breast reduction surgery can be challenging as there is some pain, and sleep can be challenging. However, you can make things easier by elevating your upper body when you sleep to reduce swelling and discomfort.

You also may need to stay lying down as much as you can for up to two weeks after your surgery to keep pain and swelling controlled.

If you usually sleep on your stomach, you will need to alter your routine for a few weeks after the procedure.

Breast Lift Is Usually Included

When you have a breast reduction, it usually involves getting a breast lift, too. As your Philadelphia board-certified plastic surgeon removes excess breast tissue and skin, they will probably reposition the breasts higher on your chest to their original position.

The breast lift will give you an enhanced silhouette that may make you look years younger. So, you can enjoy two procedures at once and get all of your recovery time done after one surgery.

Most Women Have Few Serious Complications

Any surgery has risks; breast surgery can cause complications that include blood clots, infection, or issues with anesthesia.

The good news is that most women have few complications if any. You can lower the chances of problems using a board-certified surgeon with years of experience and training in breast-related surgical procedures.

Results Take Time

The appearance and size of your breasts after surgery will change as your recovery progresses. Some patients need several months for all of the swelling to fade, and it can take time for your breasts to settle into their new position. Scars also will change and fade with time.

Because it takes time for your final results to show, it’s best to wait a few months before you buy a lot of new clothes and bras. Your surgeon will let you know how things are going and how close you are to your final results.

After Recovery, Your Activity Level Can Increase

Doing vigorous workouts will be impossible for the first four to eight weeks after surgery. But once you recover, you will find out that you can do more physical activity than before.

Having smaller breasts will make it easier to engage in physical activities that perhaps were difficult before surgery.

Carrying less weight and strain up front can make even the most basic daily activities much easier than you even imagined.

Most Women Are Happy With Their Results

Plastic surgery studies show that most women are pleased with their breast reduction surgery results as they enjoy more self-esteem and activity levels.

Researchers also say that many women enjoy boosts in physical and sexual well-being. So, it’s likely that undergoing breast reduction surgery will be worth the time and money you invest.

Book Your Breast Reduction Procedure Today

Interested in a breast reduction procedure in Philadelphia? Dr. Stark will review your options in your free consultation, as well as go over your surgical goals. Then, he’ll decide if you’re a good candidate for breast reduction surgery.

References

Are You A Good Candidate For Breast Reduction? (n.d.). Accessed at https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/are-you-a-good-candidate-for-breast-reduction

8 Things To Know If You’re Considering Breast Reduction Surgery. (n.d.). Accessed at https://health.clevelandclinic.org/8-things-to-know-if-youre-considering-breast-reduction-surgery/

9 Things to Know If You Are Considering Breast Reduction