The FDA has recently asked Allergan to recall textured breast implants since they feel that there may be a link between these types of implants and a very rare form of cancer called BIA-ALCL, a type of lymphoma that may develop in the scar tissue around the implant. Over 12 million women around the world have Allergan textured implants, and we here at AesthetiCare have used these implants almost exclusively during the past 25 years and thus have a tremendous amount of experience with this product. While warnings of this nature should be taken very seriously, it is essential to know that the risk of developing BIA-ALCL is very low. Please visit us for a free consultation to discuss your options with our experienced Allergan breast implant surgeons to learn more about this issue. We welcome all new and existing patients to come in for a complimentary consultation about your options and resources. Please note that Allergan is offering no charge smooth saline and silicone replacement implants for those patients wishing to exchange their textured Allergan breast implants for smooth implants.
Breast Reduction | Orange County | AesthetiCare
Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammaplasty or reduction mammoplasty, creates smaller, more shapely breasts. This procedure is performed by a qualified doctor, typically a plastic surgeon, and is often done in a hospital or surgical center. Large, cumbersome breasts—sometimes referred to as very large breasts or macromastia—can result in discomfort and an unattractive bustline.
Very large breasts (macromastia) can cause chronic pain in the back, neck, or shoulders, which is a common reason for seeking breast reduction. The psychological impact of macromastia is also significant, as many patients feel embarrassed or self-conscious about their breast size. At AesthetiCare in Orange County, San Diego, and Riverside, we are devoted to helping women feel amazing about their bodies. Breast enhancement through reduction surgery can provide you with the relief you’ve been looking for.
Why Choose AesthetiCare for Your Breast Reduction?
Across four counties in Southern California, AesthetiCare offers exceptional aesthetic surgical techniques performed by experienced surgeons and licensed practitioners, as well as the most cutting-edge non-surgical treatments and excellent surgical results under the guidance of our esteemed medical director, Dr. Moser.
We prioritize patient safety and satisfaction above all else through diligent medical screening and consultation practices and by adhering to the highest safety standards. With AesthetiCare, you are choosing surgical excellence, custom approaches, and ideal results for your breast reduction procedure.
Who Can Benefit From Breast Reduction Surgery?
How Can I Customize My Breast Reduction?
Incision Techniques
Breast reduction involves various surgical techniques to achieve optimal outcomes for patients with macromastia.
The vertical incision is placed around the top of the areola with a V-shaped incision down the center of the breast. This vertical mammoplasty technique eliminates the need for a horizontal inframammary scar and is best suited for small-to-moderate reductions. This technique is limited in the type of correction it can provide and is typically used if there is a mild to moderate amount of excess tissue.
The inverted T (anchor) incision extends around the top of the areola, downward, and across the lower curve of the breast. The inferior pedicle technique, currently the most widely used approach in reduction mammoplasty, is typically performed through this incision. This technique provides the most dramatic correction available and is most suitable for those with significant excess breast tissue who wish to have it removed.
Free nipple grafting involves removing the nipple-areolar complex and placing it higher on the breast. Amputation with free nipple-areola graft is chosen when transposition on a pedicle would be too long to be safe. With the right patient, this allows us to improve breast shape and nipple projection.
How Is Breast Reduction Surgery Performed?
Your Breast Reduction Consultation
Your initial consultation is an important step in your surgical process. You’ll be able to meet with a qualified surgeon and discuss your goals for the procedure. During this meeting, they will discuss your current physical concerns caused by your large breasts and outline possible techniques for surgery. If you both agree that a breast reduction is the best procedure for you, your aesthetic surgeon will create a custom surgical plan and provide you with an accurate cost estimate.
If you’re ready to take the next step and schedule a consultation today, call our office at 1-800-662-1055 or fill out the online contact form.
Breast Reduction Procedure Steps
Lifting the Breast Tissue
Your ideal breast placement and shape, as well as incision technique, are determined during your consultation.
To reshape the breasts and make them smaller and more proportionate, excess skin, fatty tissue, and, if present, glandular tissue are removed to achieve the desired reduction. The nipple-areolar complex is then elevated, similar to a breast lift technique.
During this step, we ensure that your breasts have a natural contour and an attractive position on your chest. Dissolvable internal sutures help maintain your new breast contour and to reduce tension on the skin during healing.
Breast reduction surgery typically takes about three to five hours to complete, depending on the complexity of the case.
Liposuction
Liposuction is a method for gently removing excess fat from the breasts. It can be used as a standalone procedure for women with minor reduction needs. In other cases, it can be combined with a number of breast reduction techniques to reduce the size of the breasts and enhance their overall shape. Liposuction doesn’t result in any additional visible scarring because incisions are placed along the natural creases of the breasts.
Concerns
How Long Is Breast Reduction Recovery?
Your incisions are closed, and drains may be placed to remove excess fluid from the breasts; they are removed after one to five days. Recovery typically takes several weeks, and patients should plan on taking weeks off work after breast reduction surgery.
You will experience minor bruising and swelling of the breasts. This is normal and will generally subside over a few weeks. Most patients can return to normal activities within two to three weeks, depending on the nature of their work.
A compression garment or special surgical bra should be worn 24 hours a day throughout your recovery to help reduce swelling and support the breasts while they heal. Don’t sleep on your stomach, and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for several weeks to ensure proper healing.
How Much Does Breast Reduction Cost in Southern California?
The cost of a breast reduction is determined by the extent of correction needed and the techniques used during surgery. Other factors, such as anesthesia, surgical fees, and facility fees, will also affect the cost of your breast reduction.
For qualifying patients, because breast reduction is reconstructive in nature with a goal of alleviating negative symptoms, your insurance may cover some or all of the cost. However, insurance companies often have strict requirements that must be met for breast reduction surgery to be reimbursed. It is common for smaller breast reductions performed purely for cosmetic reasons not to be covered by insurance.
You should never sacrifice the quality of surgery to save money. It is important to discuss all financial aspects and potential risks with your primary care physician or plastic surgeon before proceeding. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including not smoking and managing weight, can help reduce the risk of complications and support a smooth recovery.