For women with large breasts that cause back pain, headaches, migraines, rashes, and unwanted attention, breast reduction has typically been the go-to surgical solution. Breast reduction surgery is designed to remove excess fat, skin, and tissue for lighter-weight breasts and a smaller shape. Traditionally, plastic surgeons throughout California have been performing breast reductions through large anchor type incisions, which has allowed them to reduce breast volume as well as lift the breasts. Additionally, more and more physicians are performing scarless breast reductions using other treatments. Dr. Charles Perry, a plastic surgeon in Sacramento, has been performing breast reductions using suction assisted lipectomy since 2002 and has seen how this procedure has improved the quality of life of many of his patients.
For the majority of women, the breast is made up of fat and glandular tissue. As women age, more of the breast becomes fatty and less glandular. This fatty tissue lends itself to being reduced through liposuction which only requires tiny little incisions along the breast fold (perhaps the nipple, axilla, or arm pit) that allow the liposuction cannulas to remove the unnecessary fat. Once the fat is removed, the skin of the breast redrapes over the smaller breast. This often lifts the breast (in some series up to 6 cm) and decreases the weight that bra straps need to support.
With different options available for reducing breast size and shape, it can sometimes feel overwhelming deciding which approach is right for you. Breast reduction may be better suited for patients with a significant amount of glandular breast tissue and moderate to severe breast ptosis. On the other hand, liposuction may be more ideal for patients whose breasts are primarily composed of fatty tissue, and do not have sagging or elastic skin.
If you are considering breast reduction or liposuction, or would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Perry, please contact our practice today.
Editor’s note: This blog was originally posted on November 4th, 2008.
