Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction, or reduction mammaplasty, is a procedure intended for women with large, pendulous breast who often face a variety of health problems caused by excessive breast size. These problems can include back and neck pain, skin irritation, skeletal deformities and even respiratory problems.  

Not only does breast reduction surgery offer cosmetic benefits, it may also provide physical relief. The procedure involves removing fat, glandular tissue and skin from the breasts with the intent of making them smaller, lighter and firmer. Additionally, the size of the areola (the darker pigmented skin around the nipple) is reduced. The goal of this procedure is to give individuals smaller and firmer-shaped breasts which are more proportionate to their bodies. 

Attaining smaller, firmer and more attractive breasts through breast reduction surgery no longer means sacrificing your body’s natural look and feel. Dr. Lucian Rivela, consistently voted the top plastic surgeon in The Woodlands, has performed numerous breast reduction surgeries. An experienced and highly skilled plastic surgeon, Dr. Rivela can enhance your breasts appearance and your improve your overall health with natural-looking, beautiful results.

The Recovery

After the 3-4 hour procedure, which is performed in the surgery center under general anesthesia, the patient will stay overnight for observation. In most cases, breast reduction surgery is not a painful operation. The patient may experience discomfort for a short period following surgery, but will be prescribed medication to help with the pain. 

Any swelling or bruising should improve in two weeks, and bandages will be removed within one week. Dr. Rivela will likely use absorbable stitches that are buried under the skin and never require removal. For about a month, patients should wear a sports bra or Ace wrap and should avoid underwire bras. 

Expect to return to work within three to seven days and resume exercise in four to six weeks. Normal activities may be resumed within a 10-day period. Lifting or pushing anything heavy should be avoided for at least three to four weeks.

The final result of breast reduction surgery will be seen after the scars have matured, which will be about six months.

The Consultation

During your consultation, your medical history will be carefully reviewed with special attention on any risk factors. Detailed measurements of the size and shape of your breasts and chest will be obtained. Nipple positioning and skin quality will be evaluated and information regarding incision location, along with any possible need for ancillary procedures (liposuction, etc.) will be discussed. Risks are carefully reviewed and Dr. Rivela welcomes questions regarding all aspects of your procedure. Laboratory testing and medical clearance are mandatory at Rivela Plastic Surgery, along with information regarding smoking and use of medication. Prescriptions are called to your pharmacy prior to your procedure for your convenience.

Contact Rivela Plastic Surgery to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Rivela for breast reduction in The Woodlands, Houston and the entire metropolitan area. He and his caring staff want to help you be the best you can be and they are committed to helping you look and feel great.

This is the information to be connected to the FAQ link: 

Breast Reduction FAQs

What is breast reduction surgery? 

Breast reduction surgery, medically referred to as reduction mammaplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure intended to reduce large breasts as well as to make them more symmetrical and proportioned to the rest of the body.

Who is a good candidate for a breast reduction? 

The best candidates for breast reduction surgery include women whose breasts are fully developed and who are experiencing physical discomfort due to their breast size.

What are the benefits of breast reduction surgery? 

A number of physical problems can be alleviated with breast reduction surgery. These problems may include back and neck pain, shoulder strain, poor posture, skin irritation and infection, shortness of breath, difficulty participating in sports or other recreational activities, difficulty finding clothes that fit correctly and social or sexual embarrassment.

What are the risks involved of breast reduction surgery? 

Breast reduction surgery, like all surgeries, comes with risks. Complications may include infection, blood clots, adverse reaction to anesthesia, nerve damage, loss of sensation, asymmetry and scarring. In rare cases, a woman may lose her ability to breast feed.

What is the procedure for breast reduction surgery? 

The procedure can vary, but it is almost always performed under general anesthesia. The doctor will likely make a small incision similar in shape to an anchor or inverted keyhole that will encompass the area from the top of the nipple to the crease of the breast. Then, any excess fat, skin and tissue will be removed and the remaining skin and areola are repositioned. Breast reduction surgery can take from one to three hours per breast .

 What should I expect after breast reduction surgery? 

After surgery, your breast area will be wrapped in gauze and an elastic bandage or surgical bra. You will have to continue wearing the bra/bandage for several days even after the gauze has been removed. You can expect to experience soreness and swelling for several weeks to months while your breasts heal. Patients typically resume work and other activities quickly after surgery (between one and six weeks), depending on the individual.

 How much does a breast reduction cost? 

The cost of a breast reduction surgery varies. Generally, this surgery can cost from $5,000 to $10,000 depending on individual circumstances and the patient’s healthcare coverage. Many times, the patient is able to file an insurance claim. Because this procedure is often done for medical purposes, most insurance companies will cover the costs of breast reduction surgery