Breast Surgery
Breast Augmentation
A woman may decide to have a breast augmentation procedure for any number of reasons. She may want to restore symmetry between the two breasts, to enlarge small breasts, or to reshape her breasts after pregnancy. Or she may simply desire a more proportional appearance of the chest and hips.
Breast augmentation can increase the patient’s bustline by one or more bra cup sizes. The procedure involves inserting an implant (saline or gel) either directly behind the breast tissue or underneath the pectoralis muscle. The incision may be placed in the crease under the breast, hidden in a crease in the armpit, or placed around the lower half of the nipple areola.
Breast Reduction
Large breasts can hamper daily activities and participation in sports. The additional weight can cause a variety of painful conditions, including debilitating back, shoulder, and neck pain. Women also may experience headaches, breathing problems, and skin irritations caused by the bra.
The reduction procedure removes tissue to decrease the size and weight of the breasts, leaving them more youthful and more proportional with the patient's body. Advanced techniques reposition the nipple and shape the breast, generally preserving the patient’s sensation and ability to breast feed and leaving minimal scars. Liposuction may be used at the time of breast reduction to remove excess fat from outside the breast.
Male Breast Reduction
Enlargement of the male breast is called gynecomastia and can be caused by certain medications, hormonal imbalance, or weight gain. Liposuction is commonly used to remove the excess fat and glandular tissue, resulting in a firmer, more masculine chest. Occasionally, excess skin or glandular tissue may be removed using an incision under the nipple or in the armpit.
Breast Lift
With advancing age or following a pregnancy, breasts may begin to sag. A breast lift raises and reshapes breasts to restore a more youthful appearance. Loose skin is removed and the breasts are surgically lifted. The incisions are small and limited to a circular area around the areola. More aggressive lifts may require a larger incision, which is usually hidden in the crease under the breast.
