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Procedures
Breast Reduction (Mammaplasty)
Very large, heavy breasts can cause so many physical and functional problems that some or all of the cost of breast reduction surgery is covered under many insurance plans which do not otherwise cover plastic surgery procedures. Typical problems include neck and back pain, deep grooving on shoulders from bra straps, an uncomfortable pulling sensation on the chest, inability to wear many clothing styles, inability to exercise comfortably, and rashes under the breast. Further, large breasts can cause problems with self-examination and mammography. |
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Read some testimonials about breast reduction.
Breast reduction (mammaplasty) reduces excess size and weight of the breast. Most patients experience a dramatic improvement in symptoms immediately after reduction. They not only feel better physically, but are able to wear many new clothing styles for the first time and can often participate in many activities and sports that were off limits prior to reduction.
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GOOD CANDIDATES FOR BREAST REDUCTION:
Healthy women whose breasts are clearly out of proportion with the rest of the figure and/or who experience all or some of the physical and functional difficulties discussed above are good candidates for this procedure.
THE PROCEDURE:
During breast reduction surgery, Dr. Levens reduces the size of the lower skin envelope of the breast to reposition the breast mound upward, and repositions the nipple and areola upward on the newly shaped breast. To remove excess tissue from the breasts and reposition the nipple and areola, incisions are made in the lower part of the breast. These incisions produce scars, which are visible, but improve significantly over 6-12 months. The scars are usually located around the nipple, from the lower center of the areola to the fold beneath the breast, and in the fold beneath the breast. The extent and location of the scars depends to some degree on the size and shape of your breasts.
Dr. Levens precisely weighs the amount of tissue removed, sits you up on the operating table, and carefully compares your breasts to assure as much symmetry as possible before closure.
Prior to performing the surgery, Dr. Levens will mark your breasts while you are in a seated position, as a guide during the operation. Prior to closing surgery, he will again put you in a seated position so he can carefully compare your breasts to assure as much symmetry as possible. He will also refer to your pre-operative pictures during surgery to assure the best possible result he can achieve in your situation. All incisions will be carefully closed with sutures placed beneath the skin.
All your incisions will be carefully closed with sutures placed beneath the skin. After surgery you will wear a special bra for 2-3 weeks. Often, a small plastic drainage tube is used to lessen accumulation of fluid under the skin. Dr. Levens will remove it in his office a few days after your surgery. You'll be able to shower or bathe 2-3 days after your breast reduction.
CONSIDERATIONS:
To reposition the nipple upward onto the new breast mound, some of the surrounding breast tissue must be detached. The nipple is generally left attached to a stalk of tissue within the breast. This is designed to continue blood supply and nerve supply, but both may be decreased after reduction. Most patients experience return of sensation over a few months, but some loss of sensation is possible following reduction. In very large breasts, or breasts with certain configurations, the nipple may have to be completely detached and replaced as a graft.
When reducing the amount of milk-producing tissue within the breast, it is necessary to divide some of the milk ducts that converge at the nipple. For this reason, the ability to nurse may also be decreased following breast reduction. However, many patients have nursed successfully after reduction.
In a small percentage of cases, risks common to all surgical procedures can occur, such as bleeding, infection and scar tissue formation. Dr. Levens will give you detailed information about these and other rare risks during his discussion with you and in written information about breast reduction.
RECOVERY:
Most patients have minimal pain after breast reduction surgery, but often experience some sensations of tightness or fullness. You may have a moderate feeling of soreness for which Dr. Levens will prescribe medication. Most patients require medication for only 2-3 days, if at all.
For 48-72 hours you may have a sensation of tightness; this will fade over the next several days as the swelling decreases. You may develop slight bruising on the breasts, which will fade in about one week.
Breast reduction is done on an out-patient basis. The typical schedule of recovery is: Bruising and swelling, 10-14 days; return to work & social activity, 2-3 days; aerobic or strenuous activity, 14-21days. Dr. Levens will encourage you to return to normal activity as soon as you can, but avoid strenuous activity that would push your pulse over 100 for about two to three weeks. Any aerobic activity that increases your pulse over 100 also increases your blood pressure, and could make you bleed. Also, avoid excessive, exaggerated movements with your arms.
FIND OUT MORE:
Dr. Levens will review every aspect of breast reduction with you during your complimentary consultation. Patient Coordinator Diana Doria will discuss fees, financing plans and scheduling, and answer any additional questions. There is absolutely no obligation to schedule a procedure. To arrange your consultation, please call 954-752-1020.
Read some testimonials about breast reduction.
Dr. Levens has been providing breast reduction procedures for patients
in Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Coconut Creek, Coral Springs, Davie,
Delray Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, Hollywood, Lauderhill, Margate,
Miami, North Lauderdale, Parkland, Plantation, Sunrise, Tamarac,
West Palm Beach, Wellington, Weston and throughout South Florida
since 1989.
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