Does a Breast Reduction Include a Lift?
At Dr Hertess Plastic Surgery, patient education and care is at the core of all we do.
Many patients do not realise that breast reduction surgery shares many similarities with breast lift surgery.
However, the main difference in the procedures is simply that with a breast lift, the size of the breasts don't change – they won't be larger or smaller. Whereas, a breast reduction significantly reduces the size and weight of the breasts by removing more of the internal fat and breast tissue.
Once excess breast tissue is removed, the breasts will be lifted to a higher position on the chest, which can result in a firmer look. Your nipple will be repositioned to face forward rather than downwards, and your areola may be reduced on request.
So yes, breast reduction surgery typically includes a breast lift as part of the procedure.
Who is Breast Reduction Surgery for?
Breast reduction surgery is best suited for women in good health, who want to reduce the size of their breasts.
This procedure is suitable for any age range and is decided on for personal preference to have smaller breasts.
Dr Hertess commonly sees the following patients, who are great candidates for a breast reduction procedure:
Teens with large breasts
Large breasts can be a concern for young women and can cause unwanted attention and harassment.
A breast reduction is one of a few plastic surgery procedures suitable for women under the age of 18 following several criteria including informed consent, parental consent, and a patient’s physical and psychological well-being.
We encourage you to reach out to Dr Hertess Plastic Surgery if you’ve got questions about breast reduction suitability for your teenager.
Post-menopausal women
Women experience many changes during menopause, with the body changing as you enter the next stage of your life. Physical changes can include weight gain and unexpected tissue growth, both of which can lead to excessively large breasts.
Women with asymmetrical breasts
It’s estimated that 25% of women have asymmetrical breasts, where one breast is larger or smaller than the other. In this case, you may wish to reduce your larger breast to be more in proportion with the smaller one.
Women suffering from pain and discomfort
In addition to bra straps that dig in and chronic back and neck pain, large breasts can also cause discomfort during exercise and even day-to-day activities.
Whether you’re an avid runner or are spending your days chasing after the kids, oversized breasts can stop you from living life to the fullest.
Women embarrassed by a larger bust line
In addition to physical discomfort, large breasts can also be a source of embarrassment for many women. They can also inhibit your ability to find flattering clothing that fits you properly.
You may find that oversized breasts are stopping you from wearing the clothes you like and instead you choose clothes that hide the true size of your breasts. Boob reduction surgery can minimise this problem.
Types of Breast Reduction
Dr Hertess offers two types of breast reduction surgery techniques to suit your unique needs and desired outcome:
The Anchor Technique
The Anchor Incision (also known as the Wise Pattern Technique) is the most common technique used for breast reduction surgery. This technique involves an anchor-shaped incision that runs around the areola, down to the bottom of the breast and along the natural crease underneath.
This method allows for maximum tissue removal and reshaping, making it ideal for women with larger breasts or those seeking a significant size reduction.
The Lollipop Technique
The Lollipop Incision, (also known as the Vertical Scar Technique) involves an incision around the areola and a vertical incision from the areola down to the breast crease, resulting in a lollipop shape. This method is best suited for a breast lift or moderate breast reduction, with less tissue removed compared to the Anchor Technique.
This technique is ideal for those seeking a smaller reduction or who have less skin and tissue to be removed.
These options will be discussed during your consultation, and Dr Hertess will recommend the best course of action for you.
Breast Reduction Procedure
As an involved surgical procedure, breast reduction surgery involves multiple stages to ensure you get the best possible results.
There are 4 steps to any successful surgical procedure: consultation, preoperative preparation, procedure and recovery.
Consultation
Your initial consultation with Dr Hertess is your opportunity to share your unique goals for the procedure, discuss any concerns and ask any questions you may have.
During your consultation, you can expect Dr Hertess to assess your medical history, your current state of health, as well as your breast size, shape and symmetry.
She will also take you through the available options to determine which technique is best suited for you.
Pre-operative preparation
Before undergoing surgery, Dr Hertess will provide you with detailed pre-operative instructions to ensure you are fully prepared for the procedure. This may include quitting smoking, avoiding certain medications or supplements that can increase bleeding, and arranging for someone to drive you home after the surgery.
The procedure
Breast reduction surgery typically takes between 2 to 4 hours under general anaesthesia. The length of the procedure will depend on the size of your breast and the amount of tissue being removed.
During the procedure, incisions will be made according to the chosen technique, and excess tissue, fat and skin will be removed. The remaining breast tissue will then be reshaped and lifted into a more desirable position. Any breast tissue that is removed will be sent for pathology testing.
Recovery
After surgery, you may experience some discomfort, swelling and bruising for several days. You may also have drains inserted overnight to remove any excess fluid.
Dr Hertess will provide you with specific post-operative instructions on how to care for your incisions, as well as when you can return to work and resume normal activities.
It's important to follow these instructions carefully and allow yourself enough time to rest and heal properly. You may also need to wear a compression garment or surgical bra during your recovery period.
Breast Reduction Before and After Photos
See real before and after breast reduction images by Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Hertess. View the full gallery here.
*Results may vary. These outcomes are only relevant for the patient pictured. They do not reflect or guarantee the results you may experience as a result of your breast reduction surgery.
