Breast Augmentation 10 MOST COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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by the American Board of Plastic Surgery

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10 MOST COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ON BREAST REDUCTION

1. Who is a candidate for Breast Reduction?

A woman with very large pendulous breasts may experience a variety of medical problems caused by the excessive weight, such as back and neck pain, skin irritation and shoulder grooving.

2. What does the procedure consist of?

Techniques vary, but the most common involves an anchor-shaped incision that circles the areola, extends downward and follows the natural curve of the crease beneath the breast. Dr. Padgett removes excess granular tissue, fat and skin, and moves the nipple and areola into their new position. She then brings the skin from both sides of the breast down and around the areola, shaping the new contour of the breast. Liposuction may be used to remove excess fat from the sides. If the breasts are very large or pendulous, the nipples and areolas may have to be skin grafted into a higher position. (This will result in a loss of sensation in the nipple and areola tissue).

3. Can it affect breast-feeding in later life?

If breast-feeding is important to you, wait until after having your children to have this surgery.

4. Is there anything you have to do prior to the surgery?

Dr. Padgett may require you to have a mammogram before surgery. You’ll also get specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery. Guidelines include stop smoking, avoid Vitamin E, Aspirin, Diet Pills, any Herbal Supplements, and Anti-inflammatory, such as Advil, Alieve, Motrin, etc., for 10 days before surgery.

5. What does recovery consist of?

You will stay overnight in the hospital. You may feel some pain for the first couple of days. You will be given prescriptions and antibiotics. You should avoid lifting more than 10 pounds for 6 weeks.

6. How soon can you wear a bra?

After the surgery, you will be wrapped in an elastic bandage over gauze dressing. The bandages are removed a day or two after the surgery and then you’ll continue to wear a sports bra for a month. (Buy a sports bra that hooks in the front)

7. Is there any scarring?

Poor healing is more common in smokers and people with diabetes. Dr. Padgett will make every effort to make your scars as inconspicuous as possible. However, the scars will remain lumpy and red for months, then gradually become less obvious, sometimes eventually fading to thin white lines. The procedure does leave some permanent scars, although they will be covered by your bra or bathing suit. Stop smoking at least one month before surgery.

8. How long will I be in the hospital?

9. Will insurance cover the procedure?

Some insurance companies will reimburse you for breast reduction if it is medically necessary; however, they may require that a certain amount of breast tissue be removed. Check your policy and have your surgeon write a “predetermination letter” if required. Dr. Padgett is not on any insurance plans and does not accept assignment.

10. Will I have numbness?

If your reduction is a free nipple graft, you will have numbness of the nipples. With a pedicle technique, there is a small possibility of numbness.