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.
FAQs for Breast Reduction Minnesota
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.