Breast Reduction

Breast reduction is a procedure done to reshape and reduce the size of the breasts by removing excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin to achieve a smaller breast size in proportion with the body. Breast reduction surgery also alleviates the discomfort associated with overly large breasts.

Who is a good candidate for breast reduction?

Overdeveloped breasts can have chronic negative effects for women. Common experiences of breast reduction candidates include:

Body aches and pain, especially in the back and shoulders
Noticeable size difference between breasts
Disproportionate breast size to body frame size
Rashes or skin irritation from chafing beneath the breast
Inability to enjoy sports or physical activities due to breast size
Self-conscious or unhappy with size

Breast reduction surgery can help to alleviate these issues, especially when the breasts are out of proportion with the body size.

Where are the incisions made for breast reduction surgery?

A breast reduction typically involves three incisions: one around the areola, one vertical incision from the bottom edge of the areola to the crease under the breast, and one incision beneath the breast in the crease, following its natural curve. This is commonly referred to as the “anchor” incision. Newer techniques are used to remove the lower horizontal portion, giving a “lollipop-shaped” incision.

During breast reduction surgery, the excess tissue and skin are removed and the incisions are closed with careful attention paid to the shape and overall appearance of the breasts.

How long is recovery after breast reduction?

Immediately after breast reduction surgery, most patients experience swelling and some discomfort. Dr. Maddali will prescribe a pain medication to alleviate any pain or discomfort and may recommend that you wear a support bra for a few weeks.

Most patients are able to go back to work in as little as five days. It is important to remember that the full results may not be evident for several months as your body adjusts and heals.

Male Breast Reduction

Male breast reduction, also known as gynecomastia, corrects the appearance of enlarged or overdeveloped breasts in men. This procedure involves the removal of excess fat, breast tissue and skin to restore a more toned, masculine appearance to the chest.

Among men, enlarged breasts are fairly common, affecting an estimated 40 to 60 percent of men. Although some cases are thought to be triggered by hormones, drugs, alcohol or marijuana use, the origin of the majority of cases is unknown.

Who is a good candidate for male breast reduction surgery?

The ideal candidate for male breast reduction should be in good health. Men who are medically obese are generally advised to lose weight before seeking male breast reduction surgery.

Where are the incisions made during male breast reduction surgery?

The most effective method of removing excess male breast tissue is with the use of ultrasonic liposuction. This allows for removal of breast tissue and tightening of the overlying skin sculpting the chest into a more toned and masculine shape. The incisions are two very small incisions placed under the crease of each breast. In some patients, it is necessary to actually cut out tissue to improve the chest contour. In those situations, an incision is made around the nipple, which allows Dr. Maddali to remove excess skin, tissue, and fat. Scarring may be semi-permanent around the areola, but tends to become less visible over time.

How long is recovery following male breast reduction?

Some post-surgery bruising and swelling is likely to occur. You will need to wear an elastic compression garment around the chest for three to six weeks. It may take a few months for the chest to settle into its new shape.

Once recovered, the chest will be tighter, firmer, and more masculine in appearance. Exercise and diet are recommended to further tone and enhance your new chest.

To learn more about breast reduction surgery in San Francisco, contact the plastic surgery office of Sirish Maddali MD.