Breast Reduction in Minneapolis, MN
Many women suffer from excessively large breasts, which is a condition called “macromastia.” Macromastia can be uncomfortable and end in extreme cases of debilitating physical problems, such as back and shoulder pain, bra strap grooving, finger numbness, as well not being to find clothes that fit appropriately. Breast reduction surgery can be life-changing for women suffering from this condition.
Read on to learn more about breast reduction surgery in Minneapolis, MN. We also invite you to schedule a friendly and informative breast reduction consultation with Dr. Landis by calling (952) 562-5940 or filling out online form today!
What is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery, which is also called a “reduction mammoplasty,” is a surgical procedure where excess breast tissue is removed and tightened, and the nipple and areola are repositioned. Breast reduction surgery can also include a full breast lift as well. Excess breast tissue weighs breasts down, but after the breast tissue is removed and the breast skin is tightened, the breasts become lighter and perkier.
There are two main types of breast reduction surgery: Vertical Reduction Mammoplasty and Anchor Incision Reduction Mammoplasty.
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Landis performs the vertical breast reduction. This approach minimizes scarring and produces a more forward projecting and perkier breast. Also, it is less painful and has a quicker recovery.
Meet Dr. Landis
Dr. Landis offers knowledge, experience, and high ethical standards of medical excellence and professionalism. Together we can build a partnership to achieve your optimal aesthetic results while improving your self image and quality of life.
Am I a Suitable Candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery?
If you suffer from overly large breasts that cause daily problems, you are probably a good candidate for a breast reduction procedure. These everyday problems can include:
- Shoulder, back, and neck pain
- Poorly fitting clothes
- Difficulty exercising
- Difficulty in finding a bra that will fit you
- Discomfort from bra straps digging into the shoulders
You may be an ideal candidate for breast reduction if you:
- Have large and sagging, heavy breasts
- Would like to wear a smaller bra size
- Are uncomfortable and self-conscious about your breast size
What to Expect from Your Breast Reduction Surgery
Reduction mammoplasty is one of the most satisfying surgeries for patients. Back and neck pain improves, exercise becomes possible, clothes and bras will fit better, and your entire self-image can improve. It is important to remember that all breasts have some degree of asymmetry. Most breast reductions result in improvements symmetry
As with every surgery, there will be scarring. Plastic surgeons like Dr. Landis use the most advanced techniques to minimize the amount of scarring possible including meticulous scar management. Over time the breast reduction scars do fade quite a bit and are very well camouflaged in all clothing. Most patients consider the easily hidden scars an excellent trade-off for the vast improvement in their quality of life.
What is a Breast Reduction Surgery like?
The breast reduction surgery takes between two and two and a half hours to perform. Most of the time, you will be asleep under general anesthesia, but some patients do prefer conscious sedation for this procedure. There is no need to stay overnight, as most breast reductions are performed on an outpatient basis. You will be able to go home as soon as you recover from the anesthesia and feel ready.
During the surgery, the nipple remains attached by the underlying blood vessels, nerves, and ducts so that you have the best chance of retaining function and sensation. The nipples are never entirely removed during the procedure. However, about 10-20% of patients do have some changes to nipple sensation.
Request a Consultation
If you`re in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area and have any questions about a procedure or wish to schedule a consultation on a procedure with Dr. Landis, please contact our office.
Breast Reduction Postoperative Care
Following all of the postoperative care instructions is essential to having the best and safest breast reduction recovery process. Every patient is unique, but you can expect the following:
- Breasts will be gently wrapped in gauze and an Ace bandage
- Drainage tubes are often used for one day. These will be removed in-office after one to two days.
- The sutures are absorbable and may be trimmed at the two-week checkup.
- There will be mild bruising and swelling
- No exercise for one month
- You can return to physical work within one to two weeks.
- Sleeping on your back for three to four weeks
It often takes up to six months for all of the swelling to completely subside and for the breasts settle. Don’t worry if breasts look strange for a few weeks; this is very normal. As the tissue settles and the swelling diminishes over six months, you’ll notice an improvement in the shape of breasts. Dr. Landis strives to create the best breast reduction results for each and every patient.
View Before and After Gallery
Be sure to view our Before and After Photo Gallery of procedures to see real patient results performed at Landis Plastic Surgery.
Can I Combine Procedures?
Breast reduction surgery is often performed at the same time with other body contouring procedures such as liposuction or body lift.
Minnesota Breast Reduction FAQs
The average breast reduction can take two to four hours. Dr. Landis may give you an estimate of how long your particular procedure will take.
All surgery has some risk. However, breast reduction surgery is generally safe.
Potential breast reduction complications include infections, scarring, or loss of nipple sensation. Most patients carry a lollipop-shaped scar circling the nipple and running a line down to the breast crease (under the breast). Or they have an anchor-shaped scar along the fold under the breast. These scars will fade over the next twelve months.
Anesthesia is given during the operation, but you should expect soreness for two to three days after surgery. Dr. Landis will prescribe pain medication and advise placing ice packs over tender areas to help with swelling and discomfort. If the pain becomes unbearable or lasts longer than a few days, contact us immediately.
Breast reduction cost varies by the procedure type, surgical techniques, and the extent of the tissue removed. It may also include the cost of tests, anesthesia, and prescription medications. We will give you an itemized cost of the procedure when you come in for your consultation.
Breast reduction plastic surgery procedures are covered by several health insurance plans. However, Dr. Landis may need to authorize the operation with your health insurance company for coverage. We will go the extra mile to obtain authorization for breast reduction surgery patients.
Before breast reduction, it’s essential to follow a healthy diet, quit smoking, and avoid certain medications or supplements that could increase bleeding risks. Dr. Landis will provide a detailed list of pre-operative instructions, including fasting guidelines before surgery. It’s also recommended to arrange for someone to drive you home post-surgery and assist you during the initial recovery period.
While you’ll notice a difference in your breast size immediately after surgery, the final results of breast reduction surgery can take several months to become apparent. Initially, swelling and bruising are normal and can obscure the final outcome. As the swelling subsides and the breasts settle into their new shape, you’ll be able to appreciate the full results of the procedure. It can take up to six months for all swelling to resolve and for the breasts to reach their final appearance.
Significant weight loss can affect the size and shape of your breasts. If you’re planning to lose a considerable amount of weight, it may be recommended to reach your goal weight before undergoing breast reduction surgery. This approach ensures that the results of the surgery are consistent with your body’s new proportions and can prevent the need for additional surgeries to address changes in breast size due to weight loss. Discuss your weight loss plans with Dr. Landis to determine the best timing for your surgery.
Breast reduction and breast lift surgeries are both designed to improve the appearance of the breasts, but they serve different purposes. Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue and skin to reduce the size of overly large breasts, which can alleviate physical discomfort and improve the ability to engage in physical activities. A breast lift, on the other hand, focuses on lifting and reshaping sagging breasts without significantly reducing their size. In some cases, these procedures can be combined to achieve both a reduction in size and a more youthful, lifted breast contour.
Yes, one of the main reasons women seek breast reduction surgery is to alleviate chronic back, shoulder, and neck pain caused by the weight of excessively large breasts. By removing excess breast tissue, this procedure reduces strain on the spine and shoulders. Many patients report significant pain relief after their breast reduction surgery, leading to better posture and a more active lifestyle.
Breastfeeding after a breast reduction can be more challenging for some women, but it is not impossible. The likelihood of being able to breastfeed depends on the surgical technique used and how much tissue is removed. Dr. Landis uses methods that aim to preserve the nipple-areola complex’s connection to the milk ducts, increasing the chances of breastfeeding success after surgery. It is important to discuss your future breastfeeding plans during your consultation.
The amount of tissue removed during breast reduction surgery varies depending on the patient’s anatomy, goals, and the degree of discomfort caused by large breasts. On average, anywhere from a few hundred grams to over a kilogram of tissue may be removed from each breast. During your consultation, Dr. Landis will discuss your aesthetic goals and physical needs to determine the appropriate amount of tissue to remove.
The recovery process after breast reduction surgery usually takes around two to four weeks for most patients. Initially, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which will subside with time. Dr. Landis will provide detailed post-op instructions, including advice on wearing a surgical bra, limiting physical activity, and caring for your incisions. Most patients return to work and light activities within one to two weeks, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for about four to six weeks.
While breast reduction surgery offers long-lasting results, changes in weight, pregnancy, and aging can impact the size and shape of your breasts over time. However, most women experience significant, lasting relief from symptoms such as back pain and bra strap grooving. Maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle can help prolong the results of your surgery.
Yes, the goal of breast reduction surgery is not only to reduce the size of the breasts but also to ensure that they look natural and proportionate to the rest of your body. Dr. Landis uses advanced techniques to maintain breast shape, symmetry, and a lifted appearance. The nipple and areola are repositioned during surgery to match the new breast size, enhancing the overall aesthetic outcome.
Yes, during your consultation with Dr. Landis, you will have the opportunity to discuss your desired breast size. He will take your goals, body proportions, and health factors into account to ensure the final outcome is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Dr. Landis will work with you to achieve a size that aligns with your body and lifestyle while improving any discomfort caused by large breasts.
No, breast reduction surgery is not limited to women. Men who are dealing with gynecomastia, a condition characterized by enlarged breast tissue, can also benefit from breast reduction. This procedure can help men achieve a more masculine chest contour and boost self-confidence. Dr. Landis offers gynecomastia surgery to men in Minneapolis and provides customized treatment plans to address each patient’s unique needs.
Wearing a surgical bra after breast reduction surgery is essential for supporting the breasts as they heal and reducing swelling. Typically, patients are advised to wear this bra for about six weeks after surgery. Dr. Landis will provide specific guidelines based on your recovery progress and will let you know when it’s safe to transition to a regular bra.
Yes, many women find that their ability to exercise improves significantly after breast reduction surgery. Large breasts can make physical activity uncomfortable and even painful. After surgery, patients often experience greater mobility, better posture, and the ability to engage in a wider range of physical activities without discomfort, enhancing their overall fitness and well-being.