Breast Reduction

If your breasts are so large and heavy that they cause physical or emotional discomfort, you may want to consider breast reduction surgery. A breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, can help to give you breasts that are more in proportion with your body, and can help to relieve pain and discomfort. It may also help to reduce self-consciousness and unwanted attention while out in public.

Call Dr. Gregory Brucato today at 203-431-7644 to schedule your breast reduction consultation. Our office welcomes patients from across Connecticut, including Ridgefield, Wilton, Danbury, and other nearby areas.

Why Have Breast Reduction Surgery?

Overly large, heavy breasts can cause a number of problems, including:

  • Back pain
  • Skin irritation
  • Pain from bra straps digging into the shoulders
  • Inability to work out comfortably
  • Inability to find clothes that fit well
  • Self-consciousness

Most patients find that their quality of life is greatly improved after having the procedure done. You may be able to embark on an exercise routine and live a healthier lifestyle, find clothes that fit well, and be freed from the chronic pain that results from carrying around heavy breasts. You may even gain a newfound self-confidence when out in public.

Who Is a Candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery?

You may be a good candidate for breast reduction surgery if you’re bothered by the size and heaviness of your breasts. You don’t necessarily have to experience chronic pain or other medical symptoms to be a candidate for the procedure; it’s enough if you just want to reduce your breast size for aesthetic reasons.

In addition to wanting smaller breasts, the ideal breast reduction candidate:

  • Does not smoke
  • Is in general good health
  • Has realistic expectations and understands the risks of cosmetic surgery
  • Is at or near a stable, healthy weight

A teenager can be a candidate for breast reduction surgery if their breasts are causing significant physical or emotional distress. However, a teenager will require parental consent if under the age of 18.

It’s also important to let Dr. Brucato know if you are planning to have children in the future. This way, he can take care to use techniques that best preserve the milk ducts so that you can still have a high chance of breastfeeding after your procedure. Keep in mind, though, that breastfeeding can be difficult or impossible for some women even if they never have breast surgery.

How is Breast Reduction Surgery Performed?

During a breast reduction, excess tissue and skin is removed and the nipples are repositioned. If your areolas are excessively large, they can be reduced in size as well. Breast reduction typically requires an anchor-shaped incision, which does leave a scar. However, most patients find that the end results are well worth it.

Breast reduction surgery is done under general anesthesia and typically takes around two to three hours to perform. Following your surgery, you should have someone available to drive you home and help you out for the first day or two of your recovery.

How Do I Prepare for Breast Reduction Surgery?

Moving forward with breast reduction surgery requires some planning. To get ready for your procedure, you will need to complete a few important steps, which may include the following:

  • Undergoing a physical exam and presurgical testing
  • Having a screening for breast cancer 
  • Scheduling a pre-operative appointment with our surgeon
  • Taking time off work for your recovery
  • Avoiding nicotine and tobacco products
  • Arranging for transportation after surgery

Dr. Brucato will provide you with additional information about preparing for a breast reduction. Following his instructions is the best way to support a safe and comfortable recovery period.

How Soon After My Breast Reduction Will I Be Able To See the Results?

Breast reduction surgery immediately and significantly reduces the size of your breasts. However, the change can be obscured by side effects such as swelling and bruising. Your breasts will also be covered with bandages that make it difficult to judge your surgical outcome.

You will start to see an improvement as your breasts heal. But it can take six months to a year for the postsurgical swelling to resolve completely. Remember to be patient while you wait for your final results.

Will the Results of My Breast Reduction Look Natural?

Breast reduction surgery has a high satisfaction rate, and most patients are pleased with their results. Our board-certified plastic surgeon uses techniques to maintain a flattering breast shape and minimize asymmetry. Your breasts will also be more proportional to the rest of your body.

This procedure has a transformative effect on those who decide to pursue it. You can generally expect to feel less self-conscious and have access to a much wider range of clothing options. 

Is Breast Reduction Surgery Painful?

Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anesthesia. You will not feel any pain during the procedure because the medication will put you in a sleep-like state.

It’s normal to have mild to moderate pain for about a week after surgery. Over-the-counter pain relievers could be enough to manage it. However, you may require a prescription medication.

As you heal, you may experience some soreness. Feelings of tightness, pulling, or stretching are also common and will typically resolve within two to three weeks of the procedure. 

How Many Cup Sizes Can I Decrease My Breasts Through Surgery?

Many patients go down one or two cup sizes with a breast reduction. However, it depends on your current breast size, breast composition, and personal goals for the procedural outcome.

In general, the goal is to remove as much breast tissue as needed to achieve a more balanced look and reduce physical symptoms such as neck, back, and shoulder pain caused by large breasts. Dr. Brucato will be able to provide more information about your unique surgical plan.

What is the recovery from breast reduction surgery?

After having breast reduction surgery, it’s important to allow your body time to fully heal. Most patients can return to work within the first week after surgery, but it’s important to continue to take it easy and don’t push yourself too hard.

Light walking, a nutritious diet, and plenty of water are the keys to a smooth recovery. Avoid exercises that strain the chest muscles for the first two months, and follow all of Dr. Brucato’s post-surgery instructions.

How Much Does Breast Reduction Surgery Cost?

If your breasts are causing you physical issues such as chronic pain, your insurance may cover your breast reduction procedure. We will be happy to talk to your insurance provider during your consultation to see if a breast reduction is covered under your plan.

If your insurance doesn’t cover your procedure, we also offer financing plans through CareCredit. These plans start at 0% or low APRs for qualified candidates and offer a variety of different payback schedules to fit any budget.

Schedule Your Breast Reduction Consultation Today

If you are interested in a breast reduction surgery, please don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Brucato at 203-431-7644 to schedule your complimentary consultation. We serve patients in Ridgefield, Bethel, Danbury, and other nearby areas of Connecticut.

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