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What is breast reduction?

Woman's hands covering her breasts that have surgical markings
What is breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty)?

Health Focus is a weekly article in the Lake County News Herald featuring a Q & A with Dr. Vanek.

Breast reduction, which is technically known as reduction mammaplasty, is a procedure to remove excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with a woman’s body. While the decision to have this procedure may simply be based on personal preference, prime candidates for this procedure have disproportionately large breasts that cause neck or back pain, or other physical symptoms.

Should you consider breast reduction?

While women are more and more comfortable discussing their interest in having breast augmentations, many of my patients are less open to discuss a breast reduction. It is important to have a consultation with your surgeon to talk about your medical history, including whether or not you’ve ever had a lump removed from your breast. I believe it is important to also discuss why you want a breast reduction, and your expectations. Many patients talk about their emotional issues as much or even more than their physical concerns.

Preparation and recovery from breast reduction surgery

As with any major surgery, you will need to be in good overall health, which includes the requirement to quit smoking, at least for a period before and after surgery. The procedure itself typically lasts about 3 hours. Since you received general anesthesia, you will be unable to drive home after surgery, and you may also want someone to stay with you for at least the first night after the procedure. I tell my patients they typically can return to work in 5-10 days depending upon their job duties. Almost all of my patients who got breast reductions were very satisfied with the results.

Dr. Paul Vanek MD, FACS
Vanek Plastic Surgery
9485 Mentor Ave #100
Mentor, OH 44060
440-205-5750

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Dr. Paul Vanek

Trusted plastic surgeon, sculptor, biochemist and researcher

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