BREAST REDUCTION THROUGH LIPOSUCTION

Reduction mammoplasty is one of the most common plastic surgical procedures performed. It is the procedure of choice for the correction of large and sagging breasts. Large breasts interfere with normal function and physical activity by causing postural problems, skin rashes underneath the breast, and discomfort in the neck, shoulder and back regions. The procedure can improve the shape of the breast and nipple areas and make the breasts appear more proportional to the rest of the body. Traditionally, the surgery involves removing excess breast tissue and skin along with repositioning of the nipple-areola region. Unfortunately, this results in an anchor shaped scar: a scar around the nipple that joins a vertical line down the mid line of the breast and a horizontal scar along the breast fold. This standard surgery has a higher risk for complications, such as infection, blood or fluid collection on the breast tissue, wound healing problems, diminished nipple sensation, a poor aesthetic shape, decreased ability to breast feed, and unacceptable scarring. Today, patients desire a relief of their symptoms, but also want procedures with lower risks, shorter recovery period, and minimal scarring. Liposuction for breast reduction is an excellent treatment option for such patients.

Who is a Good Candidate?

Any healthy female 18 years of age or older with realistic expectations is a good candidate. The surgery is not as optimal with patients with extremely large breasts or severe sagging. She should have no history of malignant cancer or have an active infection of the breast. Women who are pregnant or nursing are not eligible for a breast reduction by liposuction.

Before the Surgery

During your initial consultation, the doctor will cover all areas of concern, including the procedure, incisions, anesthesia, pre and post-operative care, risks, and answer any other questions you may have. After your initial consultation, the doctor will do a complete physical examination at a second consultation. He will also do some blood work and take photos, which will allow you to better see the physical changes once the operation is complete. We will again review with you all the important issues regarding the surgery including pre and post-operative care, expectations and fees. You will also be told which medications to avoid, such as aspirin, as it increases bleeding. If you are a smoker, you will be asked to avoid smoking two weeks before and after the procedure, as it can seriously affect the healing process.

The complications associated with breast liposuction are uncommon, but do include reaction to anesthesia, infection, bleeding, delayed or altered healing of scars, hematoma (blood collection), seroma (fluid collection), diminished nipple sensation, sagging, and breast asymmetry. Breast reduction by liposuction helps patients to retain nipple sensation and the ability to breastfeed. Please note that the rate of risk is much lower than those in the standard breast reduction. In a small minority of patients, a breast reduction or a lift may also be required.

The Surgery

The surgery is performed in our fully equipped surgery center under intravenous sedation and local anesthetic. The patient sleeps comfortably through the procedure and wakes up in the recovery room without the ill effects of general anesthetic.

Initially, 2-3 small incisions are made along the lower breast fold. The breast tissue is then anesthetized with a tumescent solution. A thin, hollow tube, called a cannula, is inserted and is attached to a machine or syringe that creates a vaccum. The cannula is strategically manipulated under the breast tissue to remove the unwanted fatty deposits. The doctor will determine the amount of fat to be removed by feeling and pinching the skin throughout the surgery. The incisions are then closed with a fine suture and covered with a sports bra and tensor bandage.

After the Surgery

The procedure is performed as a day surgery. After approximately one to two hours after surgery, patients are ready to be picked up by a responsible adult. Most patients are mobile immediately after the surgery. You’ll likely experience temporary swelling and some bruising. Keep in mind that healing is a gradual process.

The doctor will want you to begin normal activity as soon as possible to reduce possible post-operative complications, although in some cases you may be advised to avoid strenuous activity for 4 weeks. Light exercise is usually permitted within a few days. It may be recommended that you wear a tight-fitting sports bra after the surgery to reduce swelling. The bra may need to be worn for up to 4 weeks. Your stitches will be removed within a week and a half if they are not absorbable. You will be able to return to work within 7 days.

Follow up appointments are booked for 10 days, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after the surgery.

The Results

This new and innovative breast reduction procedure can result in an average reduction of 2 full cup sizes. It is as effective as traditional surgery for eliminating symptoms, and significantly reduces scarring and complications. This is becoming an increasingly popular method of breast reduction.

The improvement in breast size and contour is, for many patients, accompanied by a more positive body image. Patients find choosing garments (especially lingerie) much more enjoyable as clothes fit better and are more flattering. If you would like to know more about breast liposuction, please contact the office for a complimentary private physician consultation. Unfortunately, breast reductions via liposuction are currently not covered under ohip.