The decision to undergo Breast Reduction is an exciting one. It is my belief, that an educated patient allows you to better determine your personal goals, and enables you to make an informed decision about surgery. I have developed this website as a patient information resource. Hopefully, this site will prepare you for your consultation.

If you have large, sagging breasts that may be the cause of physical problems such as back, neck, or shoulder pain, breast reduction surgery may improve or eliminate your symptoms. Large, pendulous breasts over time, may lead to postural problems. Reducing the weight of the breasts allows comfort, and prevention of skeletal abnormalities. Patients also find it easier to exercise, and find clothing that fit their new shape.

Procedure

Breast Reduction or Reduction Mammaplasty, reduces the size of your breasts by making your breasts more proportional to the rest of your body. A Breast-reduction is a procedure where excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are removed. The nipple and areola is lifted (usually the areola is reduced in size), and skin that was located above the nipple is brought down, pulled together and sutured to improve the final breast shape and contour. The types of incision used depends on the size and shape of the breasts. The most common method makes one incision around the nipple area, another that runs vertically from the bottom edge of the areola to the crease underneath the breast, and a third incision beneath the breast. Keep in mind; the incision lines are designed so that they will be concealed under the bra. However, the resulting scars are permanent and unpredictable, but should fade over time.

Ideal Candidates

• Patients with back, neck or shoulder pain caused by the weight of their breasts.
• Patients that have heavy, sagging breasts with low nipples and areolas.
• Patients with breasts that are too large in proportion to the rest of their body.
• Patients with indentations in their shoulders caused by bra strap grooving.
• Patients whose activities are limited because of the size of their breasts.
• Patients who are self-conscious about the size of their breasts.
• Patients who have one breast that is much larger than the other.
• Patients who are in good health.
• Patients who have frequent rashes under their breasts.
• Patients who are doing it for the right reasons (i.e. for themselves).

Risks and Complications

The risks and complications may include, but are not limited to bleeding, infection, change in nipple and skin sensation, abnormal scarring, asymmetry, allergic reactions, and risks and complications associated with anesthesia. Keep in mind that although risks and complications may occur, they are rare.

Risks and potential complications of surgery are best discussed at the time of your consultation.

Smokers and Diabetics have a greater risk of skin loss, pulmonary, and wound healing complications.

Breast disease and breast cancer can occur independently of breast reduction surgery.

Recovery

Within the few days dressings will also be changed. Dr. Kole typically does not use drain tubes. At one week the sutures are removed. Within two weeks, mild exercise and non-strenuous work may be resumed, and bruising and swelling will begin to diminish (will vary from patient to patient). After a few months your breasts will settle into a more natural shape. As with all cosmetic procedures, the final result will be apparent by about one year when the scars settle down. Without that excessive weight, you may find that you enjoy life much more, and can engage in physical activities you did not think possible.

In/Out Patient

Breast-reduction surgery is usually done as an out-patient. It is done under general anesthesia and usually takes two to three hours.

Call Dr. Kole for a complimentary consultation: 215-354-1010

For more information on Breast Reduction, see our Breast Reduction FAQ page.