Breast Reduction

See Dr. Newen’s Before and After Breast Reduction Photos

Breast reduction, also called reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure that removes excess breast tissue and skin, making your breast more proportional to the rest of your body. You will also get relief from many physical and emotional discomforts associated with overly large breasts, and have the ability to wear a greater variety of clothing styles.

If you are considering breast reduction, we want you to be thoroughly informed about the procedure. Below is some helpful information. A personal consultation with Dr Newen is the best way to obtain the additional information you will need.

Am I a good candidate for breast reduction?

Breast reduction can be performed at any age, but it is usually recommended to wait until breast development has stopped. You may be a good candidate for breast reduction if you have one or more of the following:

• Back, neck or shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breasts
• Heavy, sagging breasts with very low nipples and areolas
• Breast that are too large in proportion to your body frame
• Skin irritation beneath the breast
• Indentation in your shoulders caused by tight bra straps
• Restriction of physical activity due to the size and weight of your breasts
• Feeling of self-consciousness about the large size of your breasts
• One breast is much larger than the other

Your personal consultation

During the consultation with Dr. Newen, you will be asked about the results you expect to achieve from breast reduction. This will help him to understand your expectations and determine whether they can be realistically achieved.

How will Dr. Newen evaluate me for breast reduction?

Dr. Newen will examine your breasts and assess their size, shape, quality of the skin, and placement of the nipples. Measurements and photos may be taken for your medical record. You should be prepared to discuss your medical history. This will include information about any medical conditions, drug allergies, medical treatments you have received, pregnancies, previous surgeries, and medications that you currently take. It is important for you to provide complete information.

Will my insurance help cover the cost of surgery?

Some insurance companies will pay for breast reduction to relieve medical symptoms; however, coverage may depend on the significant amount of breast tissue being removed. A letter of predetermination may be required by your insurance company prior to surgery. Our staff will help you with the necessary paperwork related to this procedure.

How is breast reduction performed?

Individual factors and personal preferences will determine the specific technique selected for your breast reduction. The most common method of breast reduction uses a three-part incision. The first incision is made around the areola. Another runs vertically from the bottom edge of the areola to the crease underneath the breast. The third part is horizontal incision beneath the breast, which follows the natural curve of the breast crease. After the excess breast tissue, fat and skin are removed, the nipple and areola are shifted to a higher position. The areola is reduced in size. Skin that was formerly located above the nipple is brought down and together to reshape the breast. The nipples and areolas usually remain attached to their underlying tissue as they are moved to their higher position. Dr. Newen will discuss with you the appropriate technique that he feels will suit you best.

Understanding risks

Significant complications from breast reduction surgery are very rare. Anyone considering surgery, however, should be aware of both the benefits and risks. The subject of risks and potential complications of surgery is best discussed on a personal basis during your consultation with Dr. Newen. After surgery, there may be a temporary feeling of pain, swelling, and bruising. The types of symptoms experienced and the duration of the symptoms vary in patients.

Your surgical experience

Our goal is to make your surgical experience as easy and comfortable for you as possible. If you’re a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well in advance of surgery. Aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs can cause increased bleeding, so you should avoid taking these medications for a period of time before surgery. You will be provided with complete preoperative and postoperative instructions. Most patients can go back to work 5 days after surgery.

Breast reduction surgery is performed at Huntington Surgery Center, our outpatient surgery facility located within The Image Center. Please be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure and stay with you for at least 24 hours.

For more information

For more information on breast lift or to schedule a consultation, please call our office at (714) 230-2430.