Breast reduction offers individuals with oversized, heavy breasts the chance at improved physical comfort and a better quality of life. By reducing the size and weight of the breasts, the procedure alleviates physical discomfort caused by large breasts.
If oversized breasts are holding you back from living an active, confident life, Dr. Marco Ellis can help. The Chicago breast reduction surgeon is known for his experience and compassion. With his skill set and expertise, you will be able to achieve a breast size that is perfectly proportioned to the rest of your body.
What Breast Reduction Can Improve
Breast reduction removes excess skin, fat and tissue to bring the breasts into better proportion with the rest of the body. By reducing the size and weight of the breasts, breast reduction can improve or resolve physical side effects related to oversized breasts. For example, after the procedure, patients can report a reduction or elimination in back, neck and/or shoulder pain associated with breasts. You may also see a reduction or elimination in breathing or posture problems, chronic skin rashes or irritation related to large, oversized breasts.
Breast reduction can enable you to live a more active lifestyle. You can engage in aerobic activities like running, biking and swimming without large breasts getting in your way.
Breast reduction can also significantly improve your self-confidence. You will enjoy a better body image and feel more comfortable around others, without unwanted attention or stares because of your breast appearance.
Surgical Details
Breast reduction is normally performed on an outpatient basis under anesthesia.
The incision options for breast reduction surgery include a circular incision around the edge of the areola (the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple); a keyhole-shaped incision around the areola and down to the breast crease; or an anchor-shaped incision around the areola, down to the breast crease and along the crease.
Through the incision, excess glandular tissue, fat and skin are removed, and the remaining skin is lifted and shaped. In some cases, the nipple and areola may be relocated higher on the breast. The areola can be reduced in size if needed.
After surgery the breasts will be wrapped in a supportive garment to put gentle pressure on the healing tissues. It is common to have bruising, swelling and slight discomfort that will resolve in the days following surgery.
Patients typically take one to two weeks off from work to recover, and refrain from strenuous activities for three to six weeks. Dr. Ellis will see you regularly during your recovery to check your healing and clear you to resume exercise and the rest of your regular activities.
You will be able to see your improved breast shape almost immediately after surgery, with your results continuing to improve in the months following your procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Reduction
Are there age requirements for breast reduction?
Although there is no age minimum for breast reduction, Dr. Ellis generally recommends waiting until your breasts have fully developed. Reducing breasts that are still growing can lead to unpredictable results. If your breasts continue to grow after surgery, you may require a second surgery later in life.
Is breast reduction covered by insurance?
Some insurance plans offer partial or full coverage for breast reduction if certain requirements are met and the procedure is deemed “medically necessary.” For instance, they may require documentation from a doctor showing that your breasts cause you physical pain, persistent rashes or similar health problems. Also, insurance companies may require a certain amount of breast tissue (relative to your height and weight) be removed during surgery.
Can I choose the cup size I want to have after surgery?
Talking about your treatment goals with Dr. Ellis is an important part of the surgical planning process. Together, the two of you will evaluate your body’s proportions and frame, and determine the general breast size you would like to have after surgery. Although Dr. Ellis will perform the surgery according to your pre-determined goals and desires, he cannot promise a specific or exact cup size.
Is breast reduction painful?
The surgery is performed with anesthesia so you will not feel any pain. After the procedure, you may have some slight discomfort that is manageable with prescription or over-the-counter medication.
How long will the results last?
The results of breast reduction are typically long-lasting. However, your breast size can fluctuate with weight gain or loss, hormonal changes and pregnancy.
Does breast reduction leave scarring?
Breast reduction leaves scarring along the incision lines. Dr. Ellis can show you ahead of time exactly where your breast reduction scars will be.
With the proper care your scars should fade and improve in the six to 12 months following surgery, but they will never completely disappear. Luckily, all breast reduction scars can be hidden under a bra or bathing suit top.
Can I breastfeed after surgery?
If you express a desire to breastfeed after your surgery, Dr. Ellis will take this into account when designing your surgical plan. He will make every effort to preserve the milk ducts and milk glands of your breasts to give you the best chances at breastfeeding in the future. However, there are no guarantees.
Can breast reduction change the size of my areolas?
Yes. Dr. Ellis can compress the size of oversized or stretched-out areolas if you desire.
Can I combine breast reduction with breast lift?
By nature, breast reduction surgery incorporates techniques to lift the breasts. After removing excess tissue, fat and skin, Dr. Ellis tightens and lifts the remaining tissue higher on the chest wall for a perkier breast shape.
How can I prepare for breast reduction surgery?
Focus on your health in the weeks leading up to your surgery. Stop using all tobacco products and avoid excessive amounts of alcohol. Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Reach out to Dr. Ellis and our team if you have any lingering questions about the procedure or recovery.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Ellis
If you are interested in improving your quality of life with breast reduction, Dr. Ellis is happy to discuss the details of surgery with you. Please call (312) 695-6022 or email our practice to schedule a consultation.