Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast Reduction In Lubbock TX

Overview

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammaplasty, removes fat, breast tissue, and skin from the breasts. For those with large breasts, breast reduction surgery can ease discomfort and improve appearance, self-image, and the ability to take part in physical activities. If you're considering breast reduction surgery, consult Dr. Boonipat in Lubbock, TX. It's important to understand what's involved, including possible risks, complications, and what the surgery can and can't do.

Why It’s Done

Breast reduction surgery is intended for people with large breasts that cause:

Chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain
Shoulder grooves from bra straps
Chronic rash or skin irritation under the breasts
Nerve pain
Difficulty in physical activities
Poor self-image due to large breasts
Trouble fitting into bras and clothing

Breast reduction surgery may not be recommended for people who:

Smoke
Are very obese
Do not want scars on the breasts

Breast reduction can be performed at any age, sometimes even during the teenage years, though breasts that aren't fully grown may need a second surgery later in life.

Reasons to Delay Surgery:

Planning to have children: Breastfeeding may be challenging after the surgery, though some techniques can preserve the ability to breastfeed.
Planning to lose weight: Weight loss can often change breast size.

Risks

The risks of breast reduction surgery include:

Common surgical risks like bleeding, infection, and anesthesia reactions
Bruising (usually temporary)
Scarring
Difficulty or inability to breastfeed
Differences in breast size, shape, and appearance
Dissatisfaction with the results
Rarely, loss of the nipples and surrounding skin or changes in sensation

Preparation

Dr. Boonipat will likely:

Review your medical history and overall health
Discuss your desired breast size and appearance
Explain the procedure, risks, and benefits, including scarring and potential sensation loss
Examine and measure your breasts
Take photographs for your medical record
Describe the anesthesia used during surgery

Additional preparation steps may include:

A mammogram
Avoiding smoking for at least six weeks before and after surgery
Not taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and certain herbal supplements to control bleeding

You’ll typically be able to go home the day of the surgery, so arrange for someone to drive you home.

Procedure Details

Breast reduction surgery is generally done under general anesthesia, either in a hospital or outpatient surgical center.

Surgical Techniques:

Incision-Based Surgery: Involves making incisions around the nipple and down each breast, removing excess tissue, fat, and skin, and reshaping the breast and areola.
Liposuction: May be used to remove excess fat if it achieves the desired results, leaving smaller scars.

Incision Patterns:

Vertical (Lollipop Scar): Forms a circle around the areola and a vertical line underneath, suitable for small to moderate reductions.
Wise (Anchor Scar): Resembles an upside-down "T," with a vertical line extending down from the areola and a horizontal line beneath the breast, often used for larger reductions.

In some cases, the nipple and areola may be removed and reattached to achieve the best results for very large breasts.

After Surgery

Immediately following surgery:

Bandages and a surgical bra will support the breasts
Drains may be placed under each arm to remove excess fluid
You may be given medication for pain and to reduce infection risk

In the first days or week after surgery:

Breasts may feel tender, swollen, and bruised
A front-closing surgical bra should be worn for support

In the weeks following surgery:

Limit physical activity for 4 to 6 weeks to allow for proper healing
Continue wearing an approved surgical bra to support the breasts and reduce swelling

Scarring will fade over time but will not disappear completely. Follow-up visits with Dr. Boonipat will be necessary to monitor recovery.

Results

Successful breast reduction surgery can relieve pain in the upper back, neck, and shoulders, increase physical activity ability, and promote better self-image. Results are noticeable right away, though swelling and scars may take months to improve. While long-lasting, factors like aging, weight changes, and pregnancy can alter breast shape and size over time.

Additional Uses of Breast Reduction

Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction): For individuals assigned male at birth with excess breast tissue, surgery can remove this tissue, either with or without skin adjustment. Scars may be visible when shirtless.
Gender Affirmation: Breast reduction or bilateral mastectomy can be part of gender-affirming surgery, shaping a contoured chest and refining the nipple and areola.
Breast Cancer Management: In cases where a tumor is removed in a large-breasted person, an oncoplastic breast reduction may be used. This technique combines tumor removal with breast reduction for a more symmetrical appearance.

Scars and Sensation

Scarring is a normal outcome, typically on the lower breast areas and often hidden by clothing. Scars are generally pink initially and fade over several months. Dr. Boonipat may suggest treatments to minimize scarring, such as laser therapy.

Sensation loss is possible, as the nerves in the breast are complex and challenging to preserve completely. If sensation retention is a priority, discuss this with Dr. Boonipat during your consultation.

Insurance and Cost

Health insurance may cover breast reduction if it’s deemed medically necessary. Speak with your insurance provider to understand the requirements and coverage options.

Recovery and Follow-Up

Pain medication may be prescribed for the immediate post-operative period.
Recovery can require taking a few weeks off work, and strenuous activity should be avoided.
Minor bruising and swelling are typical and improve over time.
Wearing an elastic support garment may aid recovery.

Am I Too Young or Too Old?

Age is not typically a factor for breast reduction surgery. Consult Dr. Boonipat if you're experiencing discomfort; patients range from teenagers to seniors who seek relief and are generally pleased with the results.