The mammaplasty procedure provides dramatic results for women with large, heavy, pendulous breasts. Of course, it is well known that this technique has its perks and drawbacks. However, just when you think you finally have all the information on the breast reduction procedure, it is time to think again. Dr. Paul Vitenas has put together a list of seven breast reduction facts that you probably didn’t know, but will be happy to find out.
1. There is more than one type of breast reduction scar.
Mammaplasty includes the excision of excess breast tissue and skin, and will normally result in a scar along the incision line. But one size incision does not fit all – there are three different types of incisions that can be used, depending on how much tissue needs to be removed.
- A Donut incision runs circular around the areola (for a small tissue excision).
- A Lollipop incision includes both a Donut incision and a straight incision from the base of the areola downward to the breast crease (for a medium tissue excision).
- A Wise Pattern incision that includes both the Donut and Lollipop incisions, with an additional incision running horizontally along breast crease (for a large tissue excision).
2. Breasts should be done growing before a mammaplasty procedure is performed.
Overall, the breasts should be fully mature before undertaking a breast reduction procedure. If breast growth still occurring, it will be impossible to gage permanent results. An exception to this recommendation is a teen with large, rapidly developing breasts. Her self-esteem may benefit greatly from an early breast reduction.
3. Insurance just might pay for the mammaplasty procedure.
While cosmetic surgery is not generally covered by health insurance plans, there are times when a breast reduction is. This is because the procedure, although cosmetic, can have medical benefits such as relieving neck, back, and shoulder pain. Not every plan covers the breast reduction, so be sure to verify with your insurance company.
4. You may need a second procedure breast reduction.
Even if you have fully developed breasts, there is still a chance they will fluctuate in size. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight changes can cause the breasts to change in shape.
5. Your nipples may be more sensitive– or less sensitive – after a breast reduction.
Some women will notice a change in nipple sensitivity after their mammaplasty. There is always a small risk that nerve damage around the areola will reduce nipple sensitivity. However, due to underlying changes, there is also a chance that the area will be more sensitive, as well.
6. Breastfeeding may or may not be affected during the breast reduction.
Fat and tissue are removed during the breast reduction, which in some cases can damage nerves or milk ducts. However, in most cases, a breast reduction is safe for those who would like to breastfeed in the future.
7. You will have a huge self-esteem boost after your mammaplasty!
Large breasts are hard physically and emotionally. Therefore, it is no surprise that researchers have found breast reduction patients are among the happiest of all cosmetic surgery recipients. Even with the small scar, women are significantly happier with the way they look and feel after a mammaplasty.
Are you ready to discuss a potential breast reduction? If so, contact Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery at 281.407.7428. Consultations with Dr. Vitenas are complimentary, and can be performed in person or online. Visit our Contact Us page where you can get started on your online evaluation by uploading photos of your breasts.