Why Do Women Decide to Get a Breast Reduction?
Oversized breasts, or breasts that are disproportionately large compared to the rest of the body, can contribute to several problems, ranging from physical discomfort to self-consciousness. Some of the most common reasons to seek breast reduction surgery include:
- Difficulty finding clothing that fits in a comfortable, flattering way.
- Persistent pain in the back, shoulders or neck.
- Semi-permanent bra strap indentations in the shoulders.
- Skin problems, including rashes on the underside of the breasts.
- Loss of self-confidence or self-image.
- Discomfort when engaging in strenuous exercise.
The Typical Causes of Oversized Breasts
If you’re considering a reduction, you may be experiencing one of the following issues:
Too large breasts on a small frame, due to natural growth
A previous breast augmentation that is too heavy and bigger than you expected
Breasts that have gotten larger over time, due to gland growth or fat
Breast Reduction – Infographic
Click to view infographic:
The 3 Causes of Oversized Breasts and 3 Reasons How You Would Benefit from Breast Reduction Surgery – Infographic
Whatever the cause, know this: a discomfort with your breasts isn’t something you have to live with. Breast reduction is the right solution for many Dallas area women.
Our Breast Reduction Process Explained
The Consultation
Your treatment journey will begin with a consultation at our Dallas office. Dr. Hopkins will perform a physical examination, ask some questions about your medical history, and confirm your eligibility for a safe and successful surgery. This appointment is also a great opportunity to ask questions about the procedure, recovery, aftercare, and results.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
The duration of the surgery can vary from patient to patient, but in most cases, breast reduction takes between three and four hours. Dr. Hopkins can provide you with a more specific estimate during your consultation.
What Is Surgery Like?
On the day of your surgery, you will arrive at a nearby outpatient surgical facility in Dallas, where we will provide anesthesia to ensure your comfort. The nature of your surgery will depend on how much breast tissue Dr. Hopkins needs to remove. Depending on the nature of your surgery, Dr. Hopkins can create small incisions to remove excess tissue with liposuction or conduct full surgical excision. In addition to removing excess tissue, Dr. Hopkins may also reshape the breasts or reposition the nipples, striving for the best aesthetic results.
What Kind of Recovery Process Can I Expect?
Following your surgery, we will provide you with aftercare instructions and discharge you to go home for rest and recovery. The recovery timeline varies from one patient to the next, but most women feel ready to resume their normal activities within a week or so. Note that, for strenuous exercise, you will need to wait at least six weeks.
As you recover, use ice packs and compression garments to subdue swelling. You can expect some physical discomfort, but this is very easy to manage with prescription or over-the-counter medications.
Other Things to Consider Before Getting a Breast Reduction
If you have any questions about the breast reduction procedure, the results you can expect, or the recovery process, please do not hesitate to contact our office directly. Here are a few of the most common questions.
Are There Any Risks Involved?
Every surgery has some element of risk, and breast reduction can sometimes result in infection, loss of nipple sensation, and scarring. You can minimize your odds of complication by choosing a skilled surgeon and carefully adhering to all aftercare instructions.
Will I Need to Request Off Extensive Time From Work?
While recovery timelines can vary, most patients only need one to two weeks away from work. The only exception is if your job involves strenuous physical activity or heavy lifting, and if so, you may need to take some additional time off.
Will I Have Scars After the Surgery
While you may have some visible scarring, Dr. Hopkins will position the incisions to be well-concealed, known only to you. Additionally, careful adherence to the aftercare instructions can further minimize scarring.
Does My Insurance Cover the Procedure?
All insurance plans are different, but as a rule of thumb, insurance will not cover purely aesthetic procedures. If you need surgery for a more serious medical complication, including chronic pain, your insurance company may cover part of the procedure. Our office is always happy to provide further guidance on issues related to insurance or financing.
Is Breast Reduction Surgery Really Worth It?
Only you can decide whether breast reduction is worth it. For virtually all of our patients who have the procedure, the results are endlessly gratifying, as they mean less discomfort, less self-consciousness, and less difficulty fitting into clothing.
Excellence in Breast Reduction in Dallas
If you live with the discomfort or self-consciousness of oversized breasts, consider breast reduction as a possible answer. At J. Hopkins Plastic Surgery in Dallas, we have significant experience helping women achieve healthy, natural-looking, and proportional curves. Schedule your consultation at (972) 298-6641.
“Our daughter is a patient of Dr. Hopkins. He is probably THE best physician we have ever encountered. He is meticulous, very knowledgeable and so very, very kind. I would go so far as to say he is OCD with his abilities and how he treats patients which is awesome. He also does not have the typical doctor ego, which we hate. He explains things and always asks if you have questions. He also is judgement free which is also greatly appreciated. If you are looking for a solid plastic surgeon for cosmetic or wound issues, we highly recommend him.”
- Cliff M.“Dr Hopkins is an excellent surgeon. I’ve worked with him for years. He is very meticulous in his work. He spends a lot of time with his patients and family members. He gives high quality care to his patients whether they are cash pay, insured, or uninsured. His office staff give the same quality care. They are quick to respond and efficient. Dr Hopkins and his staff are true blessings to the community they serve.”
- Holly C.“I was very nervous coming in as a patient but
- Janai M.Dr. Hopkins and his office staff made me feel very comfortable and at ease. They were very polite and made me feel at home and answered every question that I had. I loveeee my results and if I need anything done in the future he will be the person I go too. From beginning to end the service was amazing.”