Large breasts can cause back pain, discomfort, self-consciousness, and other physical and emotional issues. For these reasons, women with large breasts often consider breast reduction surgery. If you are considering a breast reduction procedure, review the following information to learn more about this surgery.

Breast Reduction Procedure

The breast reduction procedure removes excess breast tissue to reduce the size of the breasts. The breasts are resized and shaped to help achieve a more proportionate figure while maintaining a natural, feminine appearance. There are several breast reduction surgical techniques, and your plastic surgeon will determine which option is best suited to your individual needs and appearance goals. Additionally, some patients choose to combine their breast reduction surgery with other procedures, such as liposuction, to achieve a more comprehensive body makeover.

Recovery and Results

After breast reduction surgery, most patients can return to light activity within just a few days. However, you will need to refrain from strenuous physical activity and exercise for about six weeks after surgery. The visibility of breast reduction scars will depend upon the surgical technique, but your plastic surgeon will place incisions in the most discreet locations possible to minimize scarring. The majority of breast reduction patients enjoy increased comfort and self-esteem as a result of their treatment. Because breast reduction helps patients achieve a more proportionate figure, most patients find that they can wear a broader range of clothes and participate in physical activities more comfortably.

Contact a Plastic Surgeon

If you have been considering breast reduction surgery, but don’t know much about it, the most important thing you can do for yourself is speak with an experienced plastic surgeon who can help you understand your treatment options. This will ensure that you will make the right decision for you, your life, and your health.

Are there different types of facelift procedures?

Yes! There are various facelift surgeries based on the goals you are trying to achieve. Some options may include an endoscopic facelift, the lower facelift, the mid-facelift or the mini-facelift, also known as the “weekend” facelift. Your plastic surgeon will review all of these facelift options with you, as well as the cost and length of time each one takes, so you and your doctor can make the most informed decision possible.

Am I a good candidate for a facelift?

People who are healthy with good skin elasticity are typically good candidates for facelift surgery. As with all cosmetic surgery procedures, it’s important to have an open mind and realistic goals for the surgery. Facelift surgery cannot reverse the aging process, but it can improve your appearance and reduce the effects of natural aging, such as sagging skin, deep forehead lines, and facial wrinkles.

Is facelift surgery a painful procedure?

Throughout the facelift surgery, you will be under local or general anesthesia. After the procedure, you will likely feel some discomfort and pain due to the swelling and bruising that follows. Cold compresses or doctor-prescribed medication can alleviate your discomfort as your face begins the healing process.

Will I have visible scars after facelift surgery?

Facelift incisions are strategically placed to minimize the chance of visible scars. Most incisions are located in the areas that are well hidden, such as the hairline or in the natural creases of the face. Additionally, tiny sutures are used to lessen the formation of scars.

How long can I expect the results to last?

Since facelift surgery doesn’t stop the aging process, your results aren’t permanent. But many times, the facelift results will last for over a decade! All of this is dependent upon your age, skin condition and habits that can affect your skin, such as smoking. But as you get older, it’s likely that you will still look younger than you actually are! Options such as BOTOX® Cosmetic can also be used to maintain some of the improvement achieved through facelift surgery.

What is BOTOX® Cosmetic?

BOTOX® Cosmetic is a purified protein derived from botulinum toxin. When injected into overactive facial muscles, BOTOX® Cosmetic partially paralyzes those muscles, preventing them from contracting and forming wrinkles.

Who is a candidate for BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment?

BOTOX® Cosmetic has a variety of cosmetic applications. Candidates for treatment include anyone concerned with furrowing between the brows, crows feet, frown lines on the forehead, and smile lines. However, even if you think BOTOX® Cosmetic is the right treatment for you, it is always best to consult with a plastic surgeon as there are a variety of non-surgical cosmetic treatments that are designed to address wrinkles. Additionally, some patients may find that traditional facial rejuvenation options, such as facelift surgery, are more appropriate for their appearance goals.

How long do results last?

Results generally last up to four months.

What happens if I discontinue BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment?

Many patients are under the impression that if they discontinue BOTOX® Cosmetic therapy their wrinkles will look worse than they did prior to treatment. This is untrue. If treatment is discontinued your wrinkles and lines will look the way they did prior to treatment.

Will my face look “frozen” after treatment?

When administered by an experienced professional, BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment should not significantly change your appearance. While BOTOX® Cosmetic injections do limit the movements of overactive muscles, you should still be able to move them and make normal facial expressions.

For more information about BOTOX® Cosmetic, contact South Carolina cosmetic surgeon Richard J. Wassermann, MD, MPH, FACS.