Breast Reduction

Breasts are always in a state of change. After childbirth or during nursing, they become enlarged. But only temporarily. Soon after, they can drop in size. Weight gain and weight loss both also affect breast size and shape. For many women, breasts that have become too large or heavy can begin affecting their quality of life. For this reason, Dr. Linville offers plastic surgery in Houston that can reduce your breasts back to their once youthful look and position. This is done with a breast reduction procedure tailored for your specific needs.

What is Breast Reduction About?

For many, the thought of breast reduction can be intimidating. However, it has many benefits. And, it even has the highest patient satisfaction scores of any plastic surgery procedure.

Patients consistently report:

Relief in their breasts
Decreased back and neck pain
Decreased migraines
Increase in comfort of clothing

Another significant benefit of this procedure is that it alleviates rashes under the breast. For many women, this is a daily concern that has a powerfully negative impact on their lives. In fact, it is one of the top reasons for getting a breast reduction.

In addition to the multiple functional benefits, breast reduction also has cosmetic results. Rejuvenating and restoring your breast shape can be immensely beneficial from a psychological standpoint. Many women are self-conscious of their large breasts in clothing and when naked, and the form a breast reduction grants can help. Exercise and social situations should be much more enjoyable afterward.

Who is a Candidate for Breast Reduction?

If the size or weight of your breasts is negatively affecting you, then you are likely a candidate. Breast reduction candidates typically are looking for one or more of the following benefits:

Smaller, more comfortable breast size
Improved shape and appearance
Improvements in breast symptoms or rashes

Other criteria for breast reduction include suffering from any of the symptoms below.

Neck pain
Back pain
Shoulder pain
Grooves in your shoulders from bra straps
Migraines
Breast pain

Every patient is different, with different needs and goals. This is why Dr. Linville tailors his approach for every single patient after an in-depth consultation. Dr. Linville also strives to achieve perfection in size and shape to match your results with your cosmetic goals.

Modern Breast Reduction Techniques

There are several new techniques and methods for breast reduction procedures that produce impressive results. Much of the focus is on lifting the breasts during breast reduction and keeping them there.

First, there are new incision and design techniques. Also, there are improved methods of suturing the breast tissue to the upper chest. Another modern technique uses your own breast tissue to “trap” the breast in its new lifted position. The result is a well-shaped and comfortable breast form.

A key aspect of any breast surgery is to focus on the right areas. The surgeon should augment some elements, while other areas should be left untouched. With a breast reduction, this all applies. This is where the artistry of your plastic surgeon becomes integral to a superior outcome.

Different Type of Breast Reduction Methods

Below are just a few of the newest methods Dr. Linville uses in his breast reduction surgeries:

Superomedial pedicle

Preserves breast tissue in the upper inner part of the breast. Helps maintain shape and fullness in the proper areas while preventing bottoming out.

Central mound pedicle

Helps round and shape the breast while preserving nipple sensation.

Autoaugmentation

Uses your own breast tissue to improve the breast shape without the use of implants.

Bioabsorbable mesh

For severely heavy large breasts that may bottom out regardless of technique. Uses a new mesh that absorbs over time but leaves an internal sling or internal bra to help maintain the breast in its new position.

Limited-incision techniques

Newer short-scar or vertical-only type incisions can minimize scarring. Not every patient is a candidate.

Dr. Linville will discuss these options with you during the consultation. He will determine if these are appropriate in your instance.

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Breast Reduction Procedure

The first step is a consultation. During your meeting, Dr. Linville will review your medical history and determine if you are a good candidate. He will also individualize your treatment plan.

If this is a medical breast reduction, you may need to obtain supporting documentation. This can include a recent mammogram and insurance authorization. Dr. Linville and his staff will work with you every step of the way. Our goal is to make the process easy while also looking out for your safety.

For the procedure, you will be under general anesthesia. We understand that any surgery can be a stressful experience. So, our goal is to make every step as comfortable as possible.

After the procedure, Dr. Linville will provide you with instructions on how to ensure a successful recovery. As the anesthesia is still wearing off, you’ll need someone to drive you home. Once back, you can start resting and recovering.

Recovery and Downtime

After breast reduction, sometimes immediately, most patients feel immense relief and decreased pain. Of course, this is not a guarantee. Like other surgeries, you will need to recover and allow yourself time to heal. Dr. Linville will help make sure your recovery is as easy as possible with minimal pain. It is common to be slightly sore, but overly sharp pain is extremely rare.

Depending on the extent of your surgery, expect 1-2 weeks of downtime. Your body has experienced a significant change and will need plenty of rest. Don’t push yourself during this time.

Giving yourself time to heal is crucial to having results you can enjoy for the rest of your life. Avoid strenuous activity for as long as Dr. Linville recommends. Stick to the post-op instructions, and your recovery will go smoothly.

Once fully healed, your breasts will appear healthier, shapely, and more comfortable.

Most Frequently Asked Questions:

Will Insurance Cover Your Breast Reduction?

This is a tough question to answer. First, it depends on your specific insurance plan and benefits. The best way to find out is to call your insurance company before making an appointment. Some plans have contract exclusions on these types of procedures.

A history of the symptoms listed above and documentation of them by health care providers helps. Lastly, photographs and Dr. Linville’s consultation notes are submitted as part of the approval process. If Dr. Linville deems that it is too unlikely that insurance will cover your reduction, then it is considered a cosmetic breast reduction.

Is a Breast Lift included in a Breast Reduction?

Yes, a breast lift can be a part of a breast reduction, the breasts are lifted into a higher, more youthful position.

If your breasts are affecting your quality of life, schedule a consultation with Dr. Linville today. Take the first step to achieving a look that you deserve. A breast reduction can significantly improve how you feel day-to-day. Both physically and emotionally.

As a plastic surgeon in Houston, TX, Dr. Linville has improved the lives of countless patients. He is dedicated to bringing out your best and improving your quality of life.