Breast Reduction

A breast reduction brings immediate and dramatic reshaping to a woman's figure, along with the potential to relieve the discomforts of excessively large breasts. The result is a bust line with smaller, more attractively shaped breasts, in proportion to the body.

About the Procedure

Usually lasting three to four hours, breast reduction surgery is performed under general anesthesia, often as an outpatient procedure. Generally, Dr. Ver Steeg makes a circular incision around the areola, a vertical incision to the breast fold and an incision that follows the contour of the breast fold. Following removal of excess tissue, fat and skin, Dr. Ver Steeg brings the nipple and areola to their new position. Next he brings the skin from the both sides of breast together, around the areola, creating the new contour of the breast. The reduced breast size and the precise method for accomplishing it will have been thoroughly discussed and agreed upon between you and Dr. Ver Steeg in advance.

After Surgery

Some temporary swelling and bruising can be expected, along with numbness in the nipples and breast skin due to swelling. Dr. Ver Steeg will give you a prescription for pain medication. Expect to be up and about in a day or two, but not back to work for at least a week.

Recovery

Recovery instructions tailored to each woman's surgery procedure and experience will be provided by Dr. Ver Steeg. These instructions will be very detailed, including everything from the type of bra to be worn to when to return to work and how soon normal activities can be resumed. Heavy lifting, or pushing anything heavy, should be avoided for at least a month. Usually a return to work is possible in one week, with strenuous activity limited for one month or more. Fading of scars will occur over several months to a year.

Risks

Risks for breast reductions include infection, bleeding, skin loss, nipple loss or malposition, scarring, change or loss in nipple sensation and potentially an inability to breastfeed. Dr. Ver Steeg will discuss the risks of the procedure with you at the time of your consultation.