Breast reduction (or reduction mammaplasty) is an enhancement procedure that reshapes the breasts in order to make them smaller, lighter, and firmer. The breast nipple and areola are also lifted up during a breast reduction. Reduction is accomplished by removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin. Large breasts can cause physical pain as well as emotional and social anxiety. Women who take advantage of the breast reduction procedure find that they are able to lead a healthier, more comfortable life, in addition to enjoying a beautiful, more proportionate appearance. Having received the Patients' Choice Award from patients rating Baltimore plastic surgeons, Dr. Schreiber is devoted to his patients and to achieveing all of their aesthetic goals.
Reasons for Considering a Breast Reduction:
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Back, neck or shoulder pain caused by heavy breasts.
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Sagging breasts produced by their large size.
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Disproportionate body frame attributed to oversized breasts.
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Restriction of physical activity due to the size and weight of the breasts.
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Painful bra strap marks and/or rashes as a result of large breasts.
General Procedure
Techniques for breast reduction vary; however, the most common procedure involves an incision that circles the areola. From the areola, the incision goes down and follows the natural curve under the breast. Dr. Schreiber then removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin. Next, the nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher position and held in place by stitches. Occasionally, liposuction alone can be used to reduce breast size. The best procedure can be determined during the initial consultation visit with Dr. Schreiber.
Of all plastic surgery procedures, breast reduction results in the quickest body-image changes. Patients are pleased with the elimination of physical pain caused by large breasts as well as a better proportioned body, an enhanced appearance, and better fitting clothes.
Dr. Schreiber performs breast reductions at Northwest Hospital in Randallstown, Maryland, the SurgiCenter of Baltimore in Owings Mills, Maryland, Greater Baltimore Medical Center in Towson, Maryland, and at St. Joseph Medical Center in Towson, Maryland. All of these facilities are easily accessible from Towson, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Pikesville, Ruxton, Lutherville, Howard County, Annapolis, and Washington D.C.
Insurance Coverage for Breast Reduction
Many patients inquire about insurance coverage for a breast reduction. Every insurance company is different, so make sure you check with your insurance carrier to determine whether or not reductions are even covered. If they are covered, verify what requirements must be met for insurance to cover your reduction. For the most part, 500-600 grams of breast tissue must be removed in order for insurance companies to cover the cost of a breast reduction. During your appointment, Dr. Schreiber will most likely be able to tell you if your breast reduction will be covered by your insurance company or not.
Recovery Process
Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and reduce the recovery time. Recovery takes 1-2 weeks, and this includes no exercise for the time. Bandages are applied immediately following surgery to aid the healing process and to minimize movement of the breasts. Once the bandages are removed, a specialized surgical bra will need to be worn for several weeks. Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with surgery. Any pain can be treated with oral medication. While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the instructions given after surgery.