Can breast reduction help with sagging?
Yes. Breast reduction surgery is actually a combined surgery of removing breast tissue, followed by a breast lift. The goal is to create a more desirable breast size while improving the shape and position of the breasts. Because many women with large breasts experience sagging, the lift is an important aspect of the breast reduction procedure. This includes resizing the areolas, if necessary.
Can a reduction help with breast asymmetry?
Yes. Women with significant breast asymmetry may wish to reduce the size of the larger breast to match the smaller. For this approach, Dr. Savalia performs a breast reduction on only one breast. If needed, a lift can be performed on both breasts. Patients with pronounced asymmetry may also wish to insert a small breast implant in the smaller breast to better contribute to size symmetry.
Where are the scars located?
Dr. Savalia uses one of two incisions in breast reduction surgery, depending on the amount of reduction necessary. If a small to moderate amount of breast tissue needs to be removed, he uses a lollipop incision, which goes around the areola and extends vertically down to the inframammary fold. If you require a greater amount of tissue removal, he may use an anchor-shaped incision. This incision is the same as the lollipop but travels along the inframammary fold a short distance. Dr. Savalia takes special care to make the incisions as discreet as possible.
Can I get a breast reduction covered by health insurance?
Depending on your reason for surgery, you may be able to get your breast reduction covered by insurance. For your provider to approve coverage, you will need the procedure for health reasons rather than cosmetic purposes. Each provider has different criteria for what constitutes a case for coverage, but in general, you will need to provide a letter from your physician stating that your health issue is linked to breast size. You will also likely be required to have a specified minimum amount of tissue removed during your surgery. Dr. Savalia and his staff take the time to assist patients in determining their requirements for coverage to help make breast reduction as affordable as possible.
When will I see results?
Although you should notice an immediate change in the size and shape of your breasts, your results will initially be obscured by swelling. Dr. Savalia will ask you to keep surgical bandages on for the first week after surgery, and will also provide you with a special post-surgical bra to wear after you remove the bandages. This will help support your breasts during the healing process. Most women can return to work after the first week, and you should see your final results fully develop throughout the next couple of months.