Larry A. Sargent, MD FACS
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Sargent Plastic Surgery
4.9 (190)
sargent Plastic Surgery
Sargent
Plastic Surgery
Beauty is in the Details
breast reduction
cost
What Is Breast Reduction?
A breast reduction is a surgical operation designed to reduce the size of large pendulous breasts that may be disproportionate to your body and cause discomfort. This procedure is called a Reduction Mammaplasty and removes excess breast tissue and skin as well as lifting the breasts. Breasts that are too large can limit your physical activity, cause discomfort, and/or cause mental anxiety. Breast reduction can correct the symptoms, resulting in a better-proportioned breast, enhancing a woman’s body image and self-confidence.
Dr. Sargent offers 30+ years of experience in Plastic Surgery to Chattanooga, TN., and has his own in-office operative suite.
Am I A Candidate For Breast Reduction?
You could be a candidate for breast reduction if you have any of the following:
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Back pain from excessive weight of pendulous breasts
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Shoulder pain from bra strap indentations
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Restricted physical activity due to the large size of your breasts
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Skin rashes in the crease of breasts
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Unhappy with the large and sagging slope of breasts with low nipple position
Small reductions in breast size may be considered cosmetic. Larger reductions may be covered by health insurance when it is performed to relieve symptoms. This is usually based on the amount of breast tissue that will be required to remove. Pre-certification may be necessary for coverage.
Breast Reduction Procedure
The most common approach for Breast Reduction is through a keyhole incision pattern. Breast tissue and skin are removed making the breast smaller and lighter. The nipple is repositioned to a higher location and the breast is reshaped. There is a circular incision around the areola extending down to the crease and horizontal creases increase-in an anchor-shaped pattern.
All Procedures Shown were done by Larry A. Sargent, M.D. FACS
What Do I Expect Following The Operation?
Once the procedure is completed you will be placed in bandages or a surgical bra. Usually, you would go home the same day. Pain medications are prescribed and activities are restricted. Most patients are off work 1-2 weeks. Heavy exercise is avoided for 4-6 weeks. You will not see the final results for several months.
Quick Answers
Length Of Operation
Usually 2-3 1/2 hours
Anesthesia
Usually general anesthesia
Length Of Stay
Outpatient procedure
Recovery
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Mild to moderate discomfort
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Minimal activity for several days
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Pain medication may be needed for 3-5 days
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Moderate swelling & bruising that resolves in several weeks
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Back to work (sitting job) 1-2 weeks
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No exercising 4-6 weeks
Scars
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Covered by normal clothing or swimwear
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Extend around areola, down to breast crease and horizontally in crease
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Fade with time
Risks / Possible Complications
Serious complications are rare however potential risks include the following:
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Infection: usually treated with antibiotics
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Hematoma: collection of blood beneath skin
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Altered sensation to breast or nipples: usually temporary
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Incisions slow to heal or opens up in one area: usually heals without additional operation
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Skin loss: rare, usually will heal secondarily with additional procedure. May require scar revision.