Breast reduction is a surgical procedure, performed in order to remove extra glandular tissue and fat in the breasts, to reshape them and reduce their size. Disproportionately large or sagging breasts tend to cause chronic physical pain as well as emotional problems.
In recent years, breast reduction surgery has gained popularity among both men and women. Men who are affected by gynecomastia are increasingly opting for the surgery to reduce the size of their breasts and gain a smoother appearance of their chest.
When it comes to the actual surgery, there are a few different ways breast reductions may be done. As one of the best plastic surgeons in New York, Dr. Gartner is known for his meticulous approach to plastic surgery. Based on the individual case, Dr. Gartner will examine the patient and decide on the best technique based on the size and shape of patient’s breasts, among other factors.
ANCHOR BREAST REDUCTION
In this procedure, an incision is made around the nipple, down the breast and along the crease of the breast, forming the shape of an anchor. Therefore, the fat, skin and tissue will be removed from the lower segment of the breast. Following this, the nipple and areola are moved higher up the breast, and the incision is sutured with dissolvable stitches.
VERTICAL BREAST REDUCTION
This procedure is relatively new, and boasts a less invasive approach as well as longer lasting effects. In the procedure, a ‘lollipop’ incision is made around the areola and down the breast, after which fat and tissue is removed. The incision is closed by pleating the excess skin. This type of procedure is generally popular amongst patients with moderately large breasts.
SCAR-LESS BREAST REDUCTION
In this technique liposuction is used to remove the excess skin, fat and tissue from the breast. Since the incisions are generally just a few millimeters wide, there is minimal scarring as an outcome. This technique is usually used for females whose breasts are large due to fat collection rather than the glandular tissue. Therefore, thin women with large breasts usually do not make good candidates for this procedure.
For a patient to be considered a candidate for scar-less breast reduction, the breasts have to be primarily composed of fatty tissue. Furthermore, it should be noted that this technique reduces the breast size by only a couple of cup sizes. If it is a more drastic reduction that the patient is seeking, or if the breasts have a lot of glandular tissue, the vertical breast reduction technique would be a more suitable option.
Generally, technique employed will vary on a case-to-case basis depending on the original size of the breasts, the makeup of the breasts as well as the individual’s physical health.
For those considering plastic surgery in the New York area, Dr. Gartner and his team perform this breast reduction procedures in his Manhattan clinic as well as both of the New Jersey locations.