The Natural Breast Reduction (or reduction mammaplasty) is a procedure that reshapes the breasts in order to make them smaller, lighter, firmer, and younger looking.  Reduction is accomplished by removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin.  Large breasts can cause physical pain as well as emotional and social anxiety.  Women who take advantage of the breast reduction procedure find that they are able to lead a healthier and more active lives, in addition to enjoying a beautiful, more proportionate appearance.

Reasons for Considering The Natural Breast Reduction:

• Back, neck or shoulder pain caused by heavy breasts.
• Sagging breasts produced by their large size.
• Disproportionate body frame attributed to large breast size.
• Restriction of physical activity due to the size and weight of the breasts.
• Painful bra strap marks and/or rashes as a result of large breasts.

General Procedure

Many techniques are available for breast reduction surgery. The procedure typically begins with an incision around the areola.  Traditionally, the incision continues down, along the inferior part of the breast and along the chest, known as the inframammary fold. The surgeon then removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin.  The nipple and areola are repositioned above the inframammary fold, to a higher position, and the skin is held in place by stitches. This results in either a lollipop or an anchor shaped scar.  Dr. Stiles prefers a procedure called The Natural Breast Lift that minimizes visible scarring.  The incisions are placed around the areola, a point where the skin naturally changes color, and under the breast, along the inframammary fold.  Ideally, the scars are not noticeable when looking in the mirror.  Occasionally, liposuction alone can be used to reduce breast size.  The best procedure can be determined during the initial consultation visit.

Post-operatively, patients are pleased with the elimination of physical pain, particularly of the back. They enjoy a better proportioned body and gain self confidence.  

Recovery Process

Generally, post-operative instructions call for rest and limited activity of the arms, to speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of post-operative complications.  Bandages are applied immediately following surgery to aid the healing process and to minimize movement of the breasts.  A special surgical bra will be worn for six weeks post-operatively.  Post-operative pain is minimized by the use of pain pumps, that deliver local anesthesia directly to the breast.  This decreases the number of pain pills patients take post-operatively.  While complications may occur, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the instructions given after surgery.