Breast reduction surgery involves the removal of excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion to your body, and to alleviate the discomfort associated with very large breasts. The incision to be used is determined by the position of your breasts on the chest wall, the amount of tissue to be removed, and the quality of your breast skin.

There are two different incisions which can be used:

1) vertical incision: an incision is made around the nipple-areolar complex and then extended vertically down on the lower pole of the breast. This is sometimes referred to as a “lollipop” or “limited” incision. Through this incision, the breast tissue can be rotated upwards into its new position, while the skin is redraped over the breast mound. The excess breast tissue and skin are then trimmed and the incisions are closed.  It is an ideal incision for patients who have a mild to moderate amount of breast tissue and skin excess, and is most frequently selected by Dr. Naidu for use on her patients.

2) inverted-T incision: an incision is made around the nipple-areolar complex, extended vertically down on the lower pole of the breast, and then along the inferior breast fold. Also known as the “anchor” incision, this is the traditional incision used for both breast lifts and breast reductions.  Dr. Naidu reserves this incision exclusively for patients with very significant amounts of excess breast tissue.

After the incisions are made, the nipple is repositioned while it remains tethered to its original nerve and blood supply. The areola is reduced by excising skin at the perimeter, and the underlying breast tissue is reduced, lifted, and shaped. Sutures are placed in the deep tissue to support the breast, the skin is redraped and the incisions are closed.  Dissolvable sutures are used for all vertical and transverse incisions, and non-dissolvable sutures are placed around the nipple-areolar complex.  These are generally removed in the office 7-10 days following surgery.  Drains are occasionally used and are removed 2-3 days following surgery.

The scars following breast reduction surgery typically heal well.  While they may never completely disappear, they will continue to fade for several years after surgery.  Dr. Naidu will provide you with information regarding scar reduction.

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