Breast Reduction Surgery

Large breasts can be a source of neck and back pain as well as daily frustration for many women. Many women have seen their breasts grow with weight fluctuations or from breastfeeding. Painful bra strap marks, headaches, and rashes are often seen with having large breasts. Breast reduction surgery aims to improve these symptoms and improve a woman’s quality of life.

Breast reduction surgery is often covered by insurance as long as certain criteria are met. Conservative measures are attempted first to see if this improves the neck and back pain. This can involve physical therapy or chiropractic treatment, as well as specially fitted support garments and pain medications. However, if conservative measures fail then approval is obtained from the insurance company for surgery.
Breast reduction surgery involves incisions around the nipple and underneath the breast to remove excess breast tissue and make the breast smaller. The nipple and areola are repositioned higher as well. Small drains are placed during surgery and removed a few days afterwards. Usually a short overnight stay in the hospital is required, but sometimes the surgery can be done on an outpatient basis.
All attempts are made to preserve nipple sensation as well as the ability to breast feed afterwards in younger women. The areola size is reduced as well at the time of surgery. Complications of surgery include bleeding, infection, scarring and delayed wound healing.
The amount of breast tissue removed depends on the patient’s height, weight and breast size. Oftentimes 2 pounds or more of breast tissue is removed. Women often notice the improvement in their neck or back pain immediately after surgery.
Call us today at 661-253-2211 to discuss your options. Dr. Tran is a double board certified plastic surgeon trained at the Mayo Clinic. Visit us at www.paultranmd.com