Improved Comfort and Self Image

Women may experience a variety of medical problems caused by the excessive weight of very large breasts. Back and neck pain, difficulty finding clothes that fit, extreme self consciousness and difficulty participating in sports are just a few of the hardships associated with overly large breasts. Many women can greatly benefit from the physical relief and cosmetic improvement that breast reduction can give.

Breast reduction, technically known as reduction mammaplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that removes fat, glandular tissue, and skin from the breasts, making them smaller, lighter, and firmer. Breast reduction can also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple. The goal is to give a woman smaller, better-shaped breasts that are in better proportion with the rest of her body.

Dr. Bolitho will describe the procedure in detail at the time of your consultation, explaining its risks and limitations and the results you can expect. Some insurance companies will pay for breast reduction when it’s medically necessary, provided certain criteria are met. The staff at Dr. Bolitho's La Jolla, CA (San Diego) office will provide assistance in pursuing insurance authorization where appropriate.

Breast Reduction Surgery

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and usually takes about three hours. Dr. Bolitho performs breast reduction surgery for patients from around Southern California, including Los Angeles, Orange County and from across the country at Scripps Surgery Center in La Jolla, San Diego, CA. Techniques for breast reduction vary, but the most common procedure involves an anchor-shaped incision that circles the areola, extends downward, and follows the natural curve of the crease beneath the breast.

Dr. Bolitho has perfected techniques in breast reduction that employ minimal scars. In some cases, a technique that eliminates the scar in the crease beneath the breast may be preferable. Rarely, when only fat needs to be removed, liposuction alone can be used to reduce breast size, leaving minimal scars.

Recovery

You may feel some pain for the first couple of days-especially when you move around or cough-and some discomfort for a week or more. Dr. Bolitho will prescribe medication to lessen the pain.

Dr. Bolitho will give you detailed instructions for resuming your normal activities. Most women can return to work (if it's not too strenuous) and social activities in about two weeks. But you'll have much less stamina for several weeks, and should limit your exercises until your energy level returns. You'll also need a good athletic bra for support.

The Results

Of all plastic surgery procedures, breast reduction results in the quickest body-image changes. You'll be rid of the physical discomfort of large breasts, your body will look better proportioned, and clothes will fit you better.

Remember, you'll need time to adjust to your new image – as will your family and friends. Be patient with yourself, and with them. Keep in mind why you had this surgery, and chances are that, like most women, you'll be ecstatic with the results.