The decision to undergo a breast reduction can only be made in conjunction with a plastic surgeon, such as Dr.Benjamin Lam. He will review your medical history and future plans, including if you intend having children or losing weight, evaluating which procedure is right for you. A mammoplasty could relieve your constant aches, enable you to exercise, fit comfortably in clothing, and importantly, make you feel good about yourself. Dr. Lam frequently hears breast reductions patients say, “why didn’t I do this years ago?”
Breast Reduction Procedure
The incisions made with breast reduction surgery are the same as are made with breast lifts, as both procedures have much in common. Breast reduction surgery is performed with the patient under general anesthesia and takes from two to four hours. There are two typical incision types. The option used by Dr. Lam will depend on the extent of sagging skin that needs to be addressed.
- Traditional incision breast reduction — In this method, Dr. Lam creates an anchor-shaped incision that circles the areola, runs down to the breast crease, and follows the breast crease a few inches in each direction. This incision is normally used for women with extremely large breasts.
- Vertical incision breast reduction — The incision here is more like a lollipop, circling the areola and running straight down to the breast crease. This is used for women with moderately large breasts and creates a smaller scar than the traditional method.
In both cases, fat, excess glandular tissue, and skin are removed. The nipples and areolae are usually relocated to a higher position, as well. The areolae will likely be made smaller.
Breast Reduction Candidates
Overly large breasts can be an enduring source of both physical and mental pain for women. Their weight alone can cause issues with back and neck pain and even nerve compression. Posture can be a problem. These are common health issues that lead to a woman coming to Dr. Lam seeking breast reduction surgery:
- Spine problems
- Neck pain
- Back pain
- Tingling hands
- Balance problems
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Headaches and migraines
Beyond purely physical issues, overly large natural breasts can be emotionally challenging. Women with hypermastia often avoid sports and most types of exercise because their breasts are a hindrance to participation. The attention the breasts attract can make a woman avoid social situations and they can affect professional environments. The simple pleasure that usually accompanies buying clothes can be a chore, as finding clothes can be difficult.
If you feel your overly large natural breasts are getting in the way of you living your life, this can be a great procedure with Dr. Lam. After this reduction, you can feel as if a literal and figurative weight has been lifted, and your self-confidence can really grow
Does Insurance Cover Breast Reduction Surgery
In specific circumstances, breast reduction can be covered by insurance plans. There is specific criteria that must be met for insurance coverage, dictated by the insurance carrier. Dr. Lam and staff will provide guidance should you be a candidate for insurance covered breast reduction.