Breast reduction surgery, medically termed as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure that removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin to reduce the size and weight of the breasts. This surgery offers relief from discomfort caused by overly large breasts and enhances their aesthetic appearance, making them smaller, firmer, more symmetrical, and youthful-looking. The nipples and areolas can also be resized or repositioned.
Different Techniques of Breast Reduction Surgery
- Liposuction for Breast Reduction:
- Liposuction is a less invasive option for breast reduction, offering minimal scarring.
- It suits those seeking nominal to moderate changes in breast size, especially when the breast primarily comprises fatty tissue and the skin elasticity is good.
- While it reduces breast size, it doesn’t alter the overall shape and position of the areola and nipple.
- Vertical (Lollipop) Breast Reduction:
- This technique involves two incisions: one around the edge of the areola and another running from the areola’s lower edge to the breast crease.
- It’s ideal for mild to moderate reductions in breast size or for those with noticeable sagging who need significant reshaping and lifting of the breast tissue.
- This method removes both fat and glandular tissue, enabling the breast to be narrowed, lifted, and restructured.
- Inverted T (Anchor) Breast Reduction:
- The Inverted T method incorporates the same incisions as the Vertical reduction, with an additional incision following the crease under the breast.
- It’s suitable for those with significant sagging or needing considerable reduction in breast size.
- This method involves more scarring but allows for greater tissue removal and extensive reshaping.
Remember to always have your surgeon assess your condition and general health, and plan the treatment that is best suited to you.
Combining Breast Reduction with Other Procedures
Breast Reduction with Lift or Implants:
- Breast reduction is distinct from a breast lift or augmentation. Many patients have most of their breast volume in the lower half and might need a lift or implants for more cleavage or upper pole fullness. In this case, a breast lift and reduction may be suitable.
- A breast lift, which can be done using the Vertical or Inverted T methods, lifts sagging breasts and repositions low nipples.
- Implants add volume and reshape the breast, enhancing upper pole fullness.
- The surgeon might perform these procedures in one or two stages, depending on the patient’s anatomy and desired results.
Conclusion
The choice of breast reduction technique depends on various factors, including the patient’s initial breast anatomy, the amount of tissue to be removed, and the desired aesthetic outcome. Each technique has its own advantages and limitations, and the decision should be made in consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Whether opting for liposuction, a lollipop, or an inverted T reduction, or combining the procedure with a lift or implants, the goal is to achieve a breast size and shape that is comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.
