Alleviate discomfort from large, pendulous breasts with breast reduction at Vinings Surgery & Hair Restoration Center. Treat back and neck pain and skin irritation, and improve self-confidence. With expert care from Dr. Colgrove, you can achieve a proportionate, lighter, and firmer breast shape.
Reduce the size of overly large, pendulous breasts
Breast reduction, or reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure that decreases the size and weight of excessively large breasts. This surgery involves removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin to create smaller, firmer, and more proportionate breasts. It can also reduce the size of the areola. Ideal for those experiencing back and neck pain, skin irritation, and self-consciousness due to large breasts, breast reduction aims to alleviate physical discomfort and enhance overall body proportions.
Breast reduction helps with:
- Back and neck pain caused by excessive breast weight
- Skin irritation and rashes under the breast folds
- Skeletal deformities due to poor posture
- Self-consciousness and emotional discomfort from large breasts
- Reduced physical activity and limitations due to breast size
- Difficulty finding properly fitting clothing and bras
- Discomfort during physical activities or exercise
Your breast reduction experience
Consultation
Your breast reduction journey begins with a detailed consultation. During this initial meeting, Dr. Colgrove will assess your breast size, shape, and overall health. A computer simulation of the potential results will be demonstrated. He will discuss your goals and expectations, evaluate factors like your skin condition, and determine the best surgical approach for your needs. You’ll also discuss the potential changes to your nipple and areola placement.
Surgery
Dr. Colgrove will perform breast reduction under general anesthesia at our AAAASF-accredited outpatient surgery center. The surgery typically lasts 2 to 4 hours. Dr. Colgrove performs the procedure using an anchor-shaped incision around the areola, extending downward and along the breast crease. He will remove excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin, repositioning the nipple and areola to a higher position. Liposuction may also be used to contour the area further.
Recovery
Dr. Colgrove may place small tubes in your breasts to drain fluids and blood. For 3 to 4 weeks, you should avoid lifting heavy objects and engaging in strenuous activities. Swelling and bruising are common and usually subside within the first week, but complete healing and the final breast shape may take 6 to 12 months. Some side effects may include temporary numbness, swelling, and noticeable scarring, which will gradually improve.
Results
The results of breast reduction will become more evident as swelling decreases and your breasts settle into their new shape. While initial changes can be seen within a few weeks, the final outcome may take a year to fully materialize. Dr. Colgrove will provide ongoing guidance to ensure you achieve the best possible results and address any concerns during your recovery.
Benefits of breast reduction:
- Alleviates chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain
- Reduces skin irritation and rashes under the breasts
- Enhances physical activity and exercise comfort
- Improves body proportion and overall symmetry
- Boosts self-esteem and confidence
- Provides better-fitting clothing and bras
- Can address and correct skeletal deformities
- Offers long-term relief from discomfort and strain
Breast reduction FAQs
How long does breast reduction surgery take?
Breast reduction surgery typically takes between 2 to 4 hours. The exact duration depends on the complexity of your procedure and the extent of tissue removal required. Dr. Colgrove will provide a more precise estimate during your consultation.
What type of anesthesia is used during breast reduction?
Breast reduction surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, ensuring you are completely asleep and pain-free throughout the procedure. In some cases, local anesthesia with sedation may be used, but general anesthesia is more common for this type of surgery.
Will there be visible scars after the surgery?
Yes, breast reduction surgery does leave scars. However, Dr. Colgrove carefully places incisions to minimize their visibility. The most common incision pattern is an anchor shape around the areola, extending downward and along the breast crease. The scar will be permanent, even though it will significantly fade over time.
How long will it take to return to normal activities?
Depending on your recovery progress, you can typically resume light activities and return to work within 1 to 2 weeks. However, it is crucial to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for about 3 to 4 weeks to ensure proper healing.
When can I see the final results of my breast reduction?
While you’ll notice significant changes within a few weeks, the final shape of your breasts may take 6 to 12 months to fully develop. Swelling will decrease over time, and the final contours will become more defined as your body continues to heal.
Schedule your consultation
Dr. Robert Colgrove is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 25 years of experience specializing in breast reduction and other cosmetic procedures. His expertise and commitment to patient care ensure personalized, high-quality results. If you’re considering breast reduction to alleviate discomfort and improve your body proportion, Dr. Colgrove is here to guide you through every step of the process. Schedule your consultation today at Vinings Surgery & Hair Restoration Center to discover how breast reduction can enhance your quality of life.
