For many women, breast reduction surgery can feel like a heavy weight has been lifted off their chest, as back, shoulder, and neck pain can be eliminated. Exercise and picking out form-fitting clothes can be newfound freedoms that many women thought would never exist. The decision to have breast reduction surgery is a personal one, and should be made after careful thought and diligent research.
If you have been weighing the pros and cons of breast reduction surgery, enlisting the help of a qualified plastic surgeon can provide the missing pieces of information you need to make an informed decision. Dr. James Romanelli and Dr. John Layliev are board-certified plastic surgeons at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery in Huntington, NY. They are experts at performing breast reduction surgeries, and their patients can testify to their skill-set and attention to detail.
Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure that removes excess breast fat, tissue, and skin to reduce the size of the breasts. There are multiple ways to remove the excess tissue, and the result is smaller breasts that are more proportionate to the body. One of the most common reasons women decide to have a breast reduction is simply so they can feel better about their appearance. However, many are also tired of the daily discomfort that large breasts can cause.
If you have been thinking about breast reduction surgery, here are five things to consider before moving forward:
1. In time, you will feel much better
One of the most significant results for women after breast reduction surgery is that they feel more attractive and confident. Large breasts can be bulky, uncomfortable, and cause back and neck pain due to the extra weight. Women with large breasts may avoid exercise or other types of physical activity to prevent additional discomfort. After a woman undergoes breast reduction surgery, she is more likely to engage in physical activity and experiences less pain or discomfort from the extra weight on her chest.
2. Your exact new size may be hard to predict
The first step toward breast reduction surgery is a consultation with Dr. Romanelli or Dr. Layliev at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery. They will assess your current cup size, take measurements of your breasts, and examine their symmetry. It’s beneficial to have a good idea of how you would like to look and share this vision with the doctor. It may be difficult to pinpoint the exact cup size you will be after your reduction. The goal is to make your new look symmetrical, balanced, and proportionate to your body.
3. You will have scars
There are two commonly used surgical techniques for breast reduction surgery. Which one is applied is primarily determined by how much excess breast tissue is present. The first type is called a Wise pattern reduction, and is typically used for moderate to large breasts. An incision that looks like an anchor is made around the nipple, down the middle of the breast, and across each side.
The second technique is called a vertical pattern reduction. This involves an incision made around the nipple and down the middle of the breast, where the excess tissue is then removed. The scar is similar to the shape of a lollipop. This procedure suits women that have a small to moderate amount of excess breast tissue. Many patients prefer this technique since it does not require a horizontal scar under the breast, unlike the Wise pattern technique.
4. Insurance may cover the cost
Long Island-area women can feel better knowing that some insurance companies cover part or all of your breast reduction surgery costs. The experienced team at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery will help determine if there is a medical need for the reduction. Before moving forward with your surgery, it's a good idea to check with your health insurance carrier to get all the details regarding their requirements for coverage. While many cosmetic surgeries are not covered by health insurance, breast reduction could potentially be included.
5. You’re less likely to have stretch marks
That pesky force known as gravity can leave unsightly stretch marks on your breasts. The more substantial a woman's breasts are, the higher the likelihood of stretch marks. Breast reduction surgery is fantastic for improving a patient's overall comfort level and posture, as well as helping to prevent stretch marks that become more pronounced with age. While not every woman is considering this now, in time, it will become an added benefit.
It may be hard to imagine, but the thought of a life without back, neck, and shoulder pain can be exhilarating. Shopping can be fun again when you can choose all types of clothing. Your sleep will also significantly improve, along with the ease of an exercise routine.
If you are ready to learn more about breast reduction surgery, contact our Long Island-area office in Huntington, NY, today and set up a consultation. Dr. James Romanelli or Dr. John Layliev can determine if you are the right candidate for this procedure. We can’t wait to help you look and feel your best.
