Breast Reduction

Breast reduction surgery is a procedure that removes fat, glandular tissue and skin from the breasts making them smaller and firmer. Breast reduction surgery can also reduce the size of your areolas and help to restore sagging breasts to give them a more youthful appearance. Some women choose to have breast reduction in order to satisfy their own desire for a smaller bustline or because of back and neck pain that is sometimes associated from having overdeveloped breasts. Whatever the reason may be, Dr. Rohrich can help you become more comfortable with your body by making you better-proportioned with smaller breasts.

If you’re considering breast reduction surgery, the information provided will give you a basic understanding of the procedure but it can’t answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances. Please ask Dr. Rohrich if there is anything you don’t understand about the procedure. For more information, please visit the “Frequently Asked Questions” for more information about the surgical procedure.

Am I a good candidate for the surgery?

Your visit with Dr. Rohrich will determine if you are a good candidate. If you are in good physical and mental health, have no breast disease and have reasonable expectations, you may be an appropriate candidate. You may be required to have a mammogram before your surgery.

Before you decide to have surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with Dr. Rohrich.

What should I expect from my consultation?

During the consultation, you will be asked about your desired breast size and anything else related to the appearance of your breasts that you feel is important. This will help Dr. Rohrich understand your expectations and determine whether they realistically can be achieved. He will examine your breasts and will consider such factors as the size and shape, the quality of your skin and the placement of your nipples and areolas. Measurements will be taken which are necessary for insurance approval and planning of the surgery. He will explain which surgical techniques are most appropriate for you, based on the condition of your breasts and skin tone. After your consultation, Dr. Rohrich’s photographer will take photographs for your medical record and you will meet with his secretary to discuss the cost of the surgery and scheduling dates.

You should come to the consultation prepared to discuss your medical history. This will include information about any medical conditions, drug allergies, medical treatments you have received, previous surgeries including breast biopsies, and medications that you currently take. You will be asked whether you have a family history of breast cancer and about results of any mammograms. It is important for you to provide complete information.

How is the surgery performed?

Techniques for breast reduction vary but the most common procedure involves an anchor-shaped incision that circles the areola, extends downward and follows the natural curve of the crease beneath the breast. The skin from both sides of the breast is brought down and around the areola, shaping the new contour of the breast. Dr. Rohrich uses a breast reduction technique called “wetting solution with sharp dissection.” This technique allows for accurate and precise breast contouring and helps to minimize blood loss. Dr. Rohrich will also utilize the latest techniques to minimize the length of the incision necessary for your surgery. He may also use liposuction to remove fat from the armpit area. Occasionally in breast reductions when only fat needs to be removed, liposuction can be used to reduce the breast size leaving minimal scars.

In most cases in breast reduction surgery, the nipples remain attached to their blood vessels and nerves. However, if the breasts are very large or pendulous, the nipples and areolas may have to be completely removed and positioned into a higher position. This will result in a loss of sensation in the nipple and areola tissue.