While most women seek breast enlargement, there are those who for various reasons, choose reduction mammoplasty, or breast reduction instead. This is a relatively minor outpatient procedure in which the size of the breasts are reduced through the removal of excess fat as well as loose skin and glandular tissue.

Women who typically undergo breast reduction are those who have congenitally large and heavy breasts; this excess weight on the chest puts strain on the lower back as well as the neck and shoulders. In addition, excessively large breasts can interfere with breathing and proper circulation. Reduction mammoplasty can offer substantial relief in such cases.

Breast reduction can also be employed in cases where there is excessive breast droopiness, due to the effects of aging, sudden weight loss or nursing. In addition, men who suffer from an unusual condition known as gynecomastia, or male breasts, may seek this treatment.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Reduction Mammoplasty?

Women whose breasts are excessively large and pendulous or feel the size of their breasts are out of proportion to the rest of their figures are generally good candidates for breast reduction, assuming they are otherwise fully mature adults (mammoplasty is not recommended for women under age 20 whose breasts may still be developing) and in good general physical health. During the initial consultation, the physician will take a complete medical history, perform a full physical examination and determine what kind of medications the patient is taking. Women who use tobacco and/or alcohol will need to abstain from these before the surgery and during the recovery period.

Are There Risks?

Any kind of surgery involves some degree of risk. Such risks as are unique to breast reduction patients include the loss of erogenous sensation of the nipple, and interference with the ability to breastfeed. If you are nursing or plan to become pregnant, reduction mammoplasty is not recommended. In addition, some women experience unusual menstrual discomfort during the recovery process, which can last for anywhere from six months to a year.

Other possible risks and side effects of breast reduction surgery may include scarring, asymmetry, and even recurrent droopiness (also known as ptosis). Your doctor will discuss these risk factors with you in detail so that you are able to make an educated decision as to whether or not this surgery is appropriate for you.

If you are in the Kansas City area, call for a consulation with a Kansas City Cosmetic Surgeon.