For many women with large breasts, breast reduction surgery offers a way to both address aesthetic concerns and physical issues caused by the size of their breasts. Large pendulous breasts can cause both physical and emotional discomfort for affected women. Breast reduction is a procedure that can create a more proportionate upper body and increase symmetry between the breasts. At Kansas City Surgical Arts, we have helped numerous women by providing them with personalized care and exceptional results from their breast reduction in Kansas City.

Who can benefit from a breast reduction surgery?

Breast reduction surgery is ideal for healthy adult women who are dissatisfied with the size of their breasts. Breast reduction can be used to treat:

• Large, pendulous breasts
• Downward pointing nipples and areolas
• Asymmetrical breast size
• Shoulder, neck or back pain caused by large breasts
• Chafing and irritation beneath the breasts

Following breast reduction, your breasts will better complement the rest of your body. Clothing will fit more comfortably, chronic pain will subside, and it will be easier to participate in physical activity.

Despite the many advantages of breast reduction surgery, it may not be right for everyone. The best way to determine if you are a good candidate is to schedule a consultation with a board certified cosmetic surgeon.

What to expect during your breast reduction surgery

Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Incisions are usually placed along the breast crease, around the areola, and in a line connecting the areola and the breast crease. Excess fat and breast tissue are surgically removed. Liposuction may also be used to aid in fat removal.The areola can be repositioned and/or reduced in size.

The skin is redraped and excess skin is trimmed away. All incisions are secured with stitches. The chest area is then wrapped in a surgical dressing and compression garment. Temporary surgical drains may be placed at incision sites to collect fluid accumulation.

Breast reduction before and after gallery

After your breast reduction surgery

There will be some swelling and bruising initially, which should diminish over the first few weeks of your breast reduction recovery. You will need to wear a support bra and compression garment to minimize swelling during the first several weeks of recovery. Any discomfort may be addressed with prescription pain medication. Bandages will be removed in a few days, and stitches after about one week. Our team will provide you with post-operative instructions to help you throughout your recovery and a follow-up visit can be scheduled to ensure you are healing properly.

Normal activities can be resumed within a few weeks. Intense activity should be avoided for 4-6 weeks. It is important to protect your breasts from accidental impacts and sun exposure for several months. The lines from the incisions will become less noticeable as they begin to fade over the course of 12-18 months.

Understanding the risks of breast reduction surgery

As with all surgical procedures, there are risks associated with breast reduction. Some risks include discomfort, bruising, infection, asymmetry and changes to sensitivity or breastfeeding ability. These risks and any steps you can take to reduce their occurrence will be discussed in depth during your consultation.

If you’re ready to take the next step

If you are interested in learning more about breast reduction in Kansas City, contact Kansas City Surgical Arts to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Matthew Hlavacek. Your initial consultation is an excellent opportunity to discuss questions, payment options and view patient photos.