Breast Reduction

In Phoenix and Glendale, Arizona

Many Scottsdale, Glendale and Phoenix breast reduction patients have benefited from the skill and experience of Dr. Angelchik. In the paragraphs below, he describes the breast reduction procedure. Also visit the results section of the website to see the results of Phoenix breast reduction patients.

Breast reduction surgery is performed to enhance the appearance of the breasts by lifting them and creating a more shapely, proportionate breast. For many patients, the procedure can alleviate the physical and psychological discomfort of living with very large breasts. Exceptionally large breasts can be disabling in terms of back, neck, and shoulder pain. It is often difficult for these women to find brassieres or clothing that fit properly. They may feel self conscious in public and avoid activities which make their breasts stand out (such as jogging or aerobics). Breast reduction surgery can help.

Breast Reduction: The Procedure

Surgery is done in an ambulatory surgery center or hospital setting. The vast majority of patients go home the same day. Patients with other medical problems may be hospitalized overnight when indicated, but this is rare. Dr. Angelchik most often performs a Vertical Reduction Mammaplasty (sometimes referred to erroneously as a Le Jour technique)  through a "lollipop" incision and finds that this technique provides a natural pleasing shape to the reduced breast which is long lasting. Larger breast reduction candidates may require an "anchor" shaped incision and/or free nipple areola grafts, but for most patients this is not necessary. Liposuction of the  lateral chest wall subcutaneous fat may be incorporated into the procedure to contour this region, but is not used for major volume reduction usually  Procedures are performed under general anesthesia with a board certified anesthesiologist. The surgery typically takes 2 -3 hours. It may take longer in extremely large cases. Tissue removed at surgery is sent for pathology review as a small percentage of breasts will contain an occult breast cancer.

Breast Reduction: After Surgery

Drains are used for 5-6 days and removed in the office. Skin sutures are absorbable and do not require removal. Pain after surgery is described by most patients as moderate, rather than severe. If liposuction is performed, this is typically the most uncomfortable area, and is described as "sore". Pain medication and antibiotics are provided for use after the procedure. Patients are carefully followed after surgery at our office for one year. Most patients go back to work or school at two weeks, longer if they have a physically demanding job. A non-underwire bra is required for 4 weeks or longer if there are any healing problems on the suture line. A screening mammogram is recommended 6 - 12 months after surgery to establish a postoperative baseline, which demonstrates any changes from surgery, which may influence the interpretation of future studies. Smokers are not candidates for breast reduction unless they have completely stopped for at least a month before surgery because of the  higher risk of wound healing complications.

Breast reduction patients are generally very satisfying to work with because the operation makes such a positive difference in their lives. For most women the surgery is very effective at relieving symptoms of pain and muscle strain. Patient satisfaction is typically very high. It may be less effective if there is underlying arthritis or other musculoskeletal problems contributing to discomfort.

Breast Reduction: Major Complications are Rare

All breast reduction procedures have some degree of risk. While most patients do not have complications, minor complications that do not affect the outcome of a treatment or surgery may occur after some procedures. Major complications are rare. The specific risks and the suitability of a particular procedure are carefully reviewed at your consultation (and preoperative visits if you are having surgery).  Your safety and comfort are our foremost concerns. We will provide additional detailed information for you at each stage of your experience from your initial contact with our office through your procedure and afterwards in an interactive fashion. We will ensure that you feel informed about your treatment options and recovery in advance and can actively and confidently participate in designing your treatment plan. We want you to have the best possible experience and will work with you to make it happen.

In addition to breast reduction, Dr. Angelchik also performs other breast procedures in his Phoenix cosmetic surgery practice. Visit these pages in the website to learn about how Dr. Angelchik treats Phoenix breast augmentation and breast lift patients.