Breast Reduction

Breast Reduction in West Palm Beach, FL

Having larger breasts isn’t always desirable for women, despite prevalent misconceptions. On the contrary, excessively large and heavy breasts can lead to a host of issues, including painful and uncomfortable symptoms, restricted ability to exercise and engage in physical activities, and a negative impact on self-confidence and social interactions.

At Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, our Board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Fredric M. Barr, M.D., F.A.C.S., performs breast reduction surgery for women, using the latest surgical techniques. Dr. Barr and his knowledgeable, compassionate staff understand the concerns and questions many patients have about breast reduction surgery. We’re here to listen with empathy and make recommendations about breast reduction, based on your unique needs and preferences.

Breast Reduction combines the removal of excess breast gland/fat volume, the lifting of sagging skin, and the repositioning of the nipples. Some patients may experience a reduction in neck, shoulder, and back pain after breast reduction surgery. Breast reduction surgery and a breast lift usually do not affect breastfeeding.

What Is Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction surgery is a transformative cosmetic procedure that enhances body proportions by removing excess skin, fat, and breast tissue. If you struggle with the challenges of heavy breasts, there is a solution that can improve your quality of life. Breast reduction surgery relieves discomfort and increases your confidence in your body.

The excess weight of heavy breasts often leads to various medical concerns, including:

• Discomfort in the chest wall area
• Persistent neck, back, and shoulder pain
• Bad posture
• Profound grooves in the shoulder region due to pressure from bra straps
• Recurring rashes between, around, and underneath the breasts
• Limitations with physical activities
• Stretched skin on or around the breasts
• Sagging, drooping breasts
• Negative impact on self-esteem and self-confidence
• Challenges in finding clothing and bras that fit properly

Benefits of Breast Reduction Surgery at Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery

Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery makes breast reduction simple for you. Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, reduces the size and reshapes the breasts. While the specific benefits may vary depending on individual circumstances, common benefits associated with breast reduction surgery include:

1. Alleviation of physical discomfort: Large breasts can often cause physical discomfort, including neck, back, and shoulder pain. Breast reduction surgery helps alleviate these symptoms by reducing the weight and size of the breasts.
2. Improved posture: By reducing the weight and size of the breasts, the procedure can help improve posture and balance, reducing strain on the back and shoulders.
3. Increased physical activity: Women with overly large breasts may find it difficult to engage in physical activities or exercise comfortably. Breast reduction surgery can enable individuals to participate in physical activities more easily.
4. Relief from skin irritations: Large breasts can lead to skin irritations, rashes, and infections in the folds beneath the breasts. Breast reduction surgery can eliminate or reduce these issues by reducing excess skin and reshaping the breasts.
5. Enhanced self-confidence: Many women with disproportionately large breasts may feel self-conscious or have difficulty finding clothing that fits properly. Breast reduction surgery can improve body proportion and boost overall self-confidence.
6. Clothing options: After breast reduction surgery, individuals often have a wider range of clothing options available to them, as they no longer need to accommodate larger breast sizes.
7. Improved quality of life: Reduction mammoplasty has been reported to have a positive impact on the overall quality of life for many individuals, improving both physical and emotional well-being.

Because each patient is a unique individual, specific benefits and outcomes of breast reduction surgery may vary depending on circumstances. During your breast reduction consultation, Dr. Barr will listen to your concerns and recommend the right course of action for you.

Breast Reduction Surgery Diminishes Breast Pain, Skin Irritation, Neck Pain, and Other Discomfort Caused by Very Large Breasts

Breast reduction surgery at Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery therefore serves to alleviate the common issues of breast pain, skin irritation, neck pain, and other problems caused by excessively large breasts. The procedure reduces the size and reshapes the breasts, providing relief from physical discomfort. Whereas large breasts can often lead to chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain, breast reduction surgery can significantly diminish these issues. By reducing the weight and size of the breasts, the surgery improves posture and balance — which in turn reduces strain on the neck and upper body.

Moreover, breast reduction surgery helps dispel skin irritation and rashes that may develop in the folds beneath the breasts. Plastic surgeons remove excess skin and reshape the breasts, reducing friction and moisture build-up, and minimizing the occurrence of these issues.

In addition to pain relief and reduced skin irritation, breast reduction surgery can also improve the overall appearance of the breasts. It helps achieve a more proportionate and balanced body contour, enhancing self-confidence and body image. With smaller and lighter breasts, individuals often experience increased comfort while engaging in physical activities and exercise, allowing for improved athletic ability.

Consult with Dr. Barr, a Board-certified plastic surgeon at Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, to discuss your circumstances, expectations, and potential risks associated with breast reduction surgery. He can provide a personalized assessment and guide you through the process for optimal results.

What to Expect from Your Breast Reduction

Breast reduction surgery offers a safe and highly effective solution to the physical and emotional concerns associated with having overly large, heavy breasts. Not only can the size of the nipple and areola be adjusted during the surgery, but the overall shape and size of your breasts can be dramatically transformed. This procedure aims to bring your breasts into a more proportionally-balanced relationship with the rest of your body.

Dr. Barr performs breast reduction surgery at an accredited elective surgery outpatient facility, so you can rest assured that you will not be surrounded by ill patients.

Will I Experience Pain with Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction surgery usually lasts between 2 and 4 hours, depending on how much breast tissue needs to be removed. Dr. Barr performs it under IV anesthesia, rather than general anesthesia. We administer pain medication and supply a supportive bra to enhance comfort during your recovery. Many patients find it pleasantly surprising that apart from slight soreness and swelling, they begin to feel quite well within just a few days, as long as they follow the surgeon’s instructions.

Is It Necessary to Lose Weight Before Undergoing Breast Reduction?

For optimal results, we recommend that you achieve significant weight loss, if desired, before undergoing breast reduction surgery. If you’re planning to lose weight, discuss the matter with Dr. Barr. Weight loss, whether before or after surgery, can have an impact on the outcome and shape of the breasts.

The Recovery Period Following a Breast Reduction Procedure

After breast reduction surgery, patients need to wear a surgical bra to provide support to the breast tissue. Wearing this surgical bra is necessary for several weeks following the procedure. During this time, it is normal for patients to experience some common side effects such as tenderness and discomfort, swelling, bruising, and changes in nipple and skin sensitivity. Most patients can return to work within two weeks; however, avoid lifting heavy objects and strenuous exercise for at least six weeks to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.

How Much Does Breast Reduction Cost?

Breast reduction surgery in the West Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens area typically ranges from $3,500 to $5,000. However, the final cost may vary based on the amount and type of tissue removed, as well as other factors. You may be surprised to learn that unlike most cosmetic procedures, your health insurance company may cover the expenses if the surgery is determined to be medically necessary.

Breastfeeding is Usually Unaffected by Breast Reduction

Generally, breastfeeding is unaffected by breast reduction surgery. During breast reduction surgery, Dr. Barr carefully preserves the nipple and areola while removing excess breast tissue and reshaping the breasts. This preservation allows for the potential retention of milk ducts and nerve supply.

However, every individual’s anatomy and breastfeeding experience may vary. Some women may experience a decrease in milk production or have difficulty with latching due to changes in breast tissue and nipple sensation after surgery. These potential challenges can be influenced by factors such as the extent of the breast reduction, surgical technique, and individual variations in breastfeeding ability.

Women considering breast reduction surgery who plan to breastfeed should discuss their goals with their plastic surgeon during the consultation process. A thorough evaluation of the patient’s breast anatomy and a discussion of potential impacts on breastfeeding can help set realistic expectations and inform decision-making.

In some cases, women who find it challenging to breastfeed after breast reduction surgery may choose to supplement with formula or explore alternative feeding methods. Consulting a lactation specialist or Board-certified plastic surgeon can provide additional guidance and support for women navigating breastfeeding after breast reduction surgery.

Envisioning Your Life After Breast Reduction

Imagine the freedom that comes with smaller, lighter breasts, less pain, and renewed self-confidence. By removing excess breast tissue and reducing breast size, you’ll feel and look amazing in any clothes you choose, participate in sports and other activities you’ve been missing out on, and alleviate all the symptoms caused by overly large breasts.

 

What To Expect Before, During, and After Your Breast Reduction Procedure in West Palm Beach

Prior to surgery, Dr. Barr may advise you to undergo certain pre-operative preparations, such as avoiding smoking and certain medications that can increase the risk of complications.

The surgical procedure itself involves making incisions on the breasts, removing excess breast tissue and skin, and reshaping the remaining breast tissue. The specific technique Dr. Barr uses may vary depending on your individual needs and preferences.

After the surgery, you may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Dr. Barr will provide pain medication and instructions for post-surgical care. Follow all post-operative instructions, including wearing a supportive bra, minimizing physical activity, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process.

During the recovery phase, it is common for patients to gradually return to their normal activities over several weeks. However, individual recovery experiences can vary, and some patients may require more time than others to fully heal.

Schedule a Consultation Today for Breast Reduction at Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery

For more specific and accurate information about what to expect before, during, and after a breast reduction from Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, call (561) 833-4122(561) 833-4122 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation with Dr. Barr, where he will answer your questions and address all your concerns.

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