Breast Reduction in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Is Breast Reduction Surgery Right For Me?
Very large, heavy breasts can cause many physical and functional problems. Typical problems include neck and back pain, deep grooving on shoulders from bra straps, an uncomfortable pulling sensation on the chest, inability to wear many clothing styles, inability to exercise comfortably, and rashes under the breast. Further, large breasts can cause problems with self-examination and mammography. Located in Coral Springs, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David J. Levens performs breast reduction for the women of Fort Lauderdale and Broward County.
What is Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction (mammaplasty) reduces excess breast size and weight along with lifting your breasts. Most patients experience a dramatic improvement in symptoms immediately after reduction. They not only feel better physically but are able to wear many new clothing styles for the first time and can often participate in many activities and sports that were off limits prior to reduction.
How Does Breast Reduction Work?
Breast reduction is a surgical procedure. To perform breast reduction surgery, incisions are made in the breasts. The location and size of these incisions will vary depending on the patient, their cosmetic goals and preferences. Through the incisions, Dr. Levens removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin to reduce the size of the breasts. The nipples may also be repositioned or resized. These techniques result in smaller, shapelier and lifted breasts that can eliminate many of the problems associated with large breasts.
What are the Benefits of Breast Reduction?
The physical changes to the breasts after breast reduction surgery are easily seen by most people. What is not so easy to detect are the emotional effects of the surgery. Large breasts can cause women chronic pain in their backs, shoulders and necks, and these symptoms will significantly affect one’s quality of life. Additionally, women who are uncomfortable with the large size of their breasts feel self-conscious and uneasy about their appearances. The benefits of breast reduction surgery include:
- Improved breast proportions
- Increased breast firmness
- Alleviated neck, back and shoulder pain
- Easier to breathe and exercise
- Improves the fit of clothing
Breast Reduction Before and After Photos
Age: 26 • Height: 5′ 1″. •. Weight: 160 lbs
Months Post-Op: 4
Breast Surgery
Procedure Type:Breast Reduction
Pre-Op Cup Size:DD
Post-Op Cup Size:C
Age: 31 • Height: 5′ 4″. •. Weight: 120 lbs
Months Post-Op: 2
Breast Surgery
Procedure Type:Breast Reduction
Pre-Op Cup Size:DD
Post-Op Cup Size:C-D
Are You A Candidate For Breast Reduction?
The best candidates for breast reduction are:
- Healthy
- Bothered by large breasts that are out of proportion with the rest of the body
- Suffering from physical and functional difficulties as a result of large breasts
If you meet these criteria, you might be a good candidate for breast reduction surgery. However, the best way to determine your candidacy for a breast reduction is to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Levens. During your consultation, you can discuss your cosmetic goals as Dr. Levens helps you identify whether a breast reduction is an appropriate solution. If it is, he’ll develop a personalized treatment plan and explain what you can expect leading up to, during and after your surgery.
How Can I Pay For Breast Reduction?
How Much is a Breast Reduction?
The cost of breast reduction at David J. Levens M.D. Plastic Surgery & Med Spa starts at $9,000. However, prices may vary due to specials and/or the facility used. An individual treatment plan will be developed during your consultation with Dr. Levens. After the appointment, we will provide you with a total cost and explain your payment options, including cash, personal check, Visa®, MasterCard® and American Express®. If you are interested in financing your breast reduction surgery, our patient coordinators will explain how to apply for CareCredit®, Alphaeon Credit, or Prosper® Healthcare Lending.
Why Choose Dr. David J. Levens?
Dr. David J. Levens, FACS, is an exceptional plastic, cosmetic, and reconstructive surgeon practicing in Coral Springs since 1989. With a career spanning over three decades, he has established himself as a highly respected and experienced professional in the field. Dr. Levens is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), and he is a member of prestigious organizations such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).
When it comes to breast reduction surgery, Dr. Levens is known for his surgical skill and expertise. He offers a comprehensive range of sophisticated plastic surgery procedures and treatments for the face and body. However, what sets him apart is his patient-centric approach. Dr. Levens takes the time to understand each patient's unique situation and helps them choose the most suitable procedure or treatment to achieve their desired outcome. His expertise, combined with his compassionate and meticulous approach, make him an excellent choice for those looking to undergo breast reduction surgery. Learn more about Dr. Levens or read his reviews.
Call 954-752-1020 Today
To Schedule Your Consultation!
What Happens During Breast Reduction Surgery?
During breast reduction surgery, Dr. Levens reduces the size of the lower skin envelope of the breast to reposition the breast mound upward and repositions the nipple and areola upward on the newly shaped breast. To remove excess tissue from the breasts and reposition the nipple and areola, incisions are made in the lower part of the breast. These incisions produce scars, which are visible, but improve significantly over six to 12 months. The scars are usually located around the nipple, from the lower center of the areola to the fold beneath the breast, and in the fold beneath the breast. The extent and location of the scars depend to some degree on the size and shape of your breasts. Dr. Levens precisely weighs the amount of tissue removed and carefully compares your breasts to ensure as much symmetry as possible before closure. All incisions will be carefully closed with sutures placed beneath the skin.
What are the Risks of Breast Reduction Surgery?
There are a few important risks to consider before pursuing breast reduction surgery.
Nipple Sensation Risks
To reposition the nipple upward onto the new breast mound, the nipple is left attached to a piece of tissue within the breast. This is designed to preserve blood supply and nerve supply, but both may be decreased after reduction. Most patients experience a return of sensation over a few months, but some permanent loss of sensation in the nipples is possible following a breast reduction. In very large breasts, or breasts with certain configurations, the nipple may have to be completely detached and replaced as a graft.
Breastfeeding Risks
When reducing the amount of milk-producing tissue within the breast, it is necessary to divide some of the milk ducts that converge at the nipple. For this reason, the ability to breastfeed may be decreased following breast reduction. However, many patients have nursed successfully after reduction. If this is a priority for you, be sure to discuss it with Dr. Levens during your consultation.
Surgical Risks
In a small percentage of cases, risks common to all surgical procedures can occur, such as bleeding, infection, and scar tissue formation. Dr. Levens will give you detailed information about these and other rare risks during his discussion with you and in written information about breast reduction.
Breast Reduction Recovery
What to Buy for Breast Reduction Recovery?
When preparing for breast reduction surgery and the recovery period, it's essential to have certain items on hand to ensure a smooth and comfortable healing process. Some of the items you may want to consider having available include:
- Surgical bras
- Comfortable clothing
- Extra pillows
- Ice packs
- Medications
- Scar care products
- Loose and supportive undergarments
- Entertainment and self-care items
How Painful is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Most patients have minimal pain after breast reduction surgery, but often experience some sensations of tightness or fullness. You may have a moderate feeling of soreness for which Dr. Levens will prescribe medication. Most patients require medication for only two to three days, if at all. For 48 to 72 hours, you may have a sensation of tightness; this will fade over the next several days as the swelling decreases. You may develop slight bruising on the breasts, which will fade in about one week.
How Long is Breast Reduction Recovery?
Breast reduction is done on an outpatient basis, with most patients making a full recovery within three months. The typical schedule of recovery is:
- Bruising and swelling for 10 to 14 days.
- Return to work and social activities within 5 to 7 days.
- Partake in aerobic or strenuous activities within 3 to 4 weeks.
Dr. Levens will encourage you to return to normal activity as soon as you can, but for the first two to three weeks, you should avoid strenuous activity that would push your pulse over 100 bpm. Any aerobic activity at this level increases your blood pressure, and could make you bleed. Also, avoid excessive, exaggerated movements with your arms. Keep in mind that while you might recover within a few months, it can take several months longer for swelling to fully resolve and reveal the final results of breast reduction surgery.
Post Surgery Frequently Asked Questions
When Can I Sleep on My Side After Breast Reduction?
Patients are advised to sleep on their back and/or in an elevated position for the first few weeks following breast reduction surgery. This is done to minimize pressure on the incisions, promote proper healing, and reduce the risk of complications. Sleeping on your side too soon could potentially put pressure on the surgical area, disrupt the healing process, and cause discomfort. You may resume sleeping on your side after the initial healing phase, which is typically about 4-8 weeks after surgery, although the exact timeline will be different for each patient.
How Long Should I Wear My Surgical Bra After Breast Reduction?
Patients are advised to wear a surgical bra for the entirety of the initial healing phase, only removing it for brief periods to maintain hygiene. As your healing progresses, most patients are able to transition to a regular bra approximately 4-6 weeks after surgery. During this time, we recommend using a supportive sports bra or a soft, non-underwire bra.
Are the Results from Breast Reduction Permanent?
Yes, the results from breast reduction surgery are generally considered permanent. During the procedure, excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are removed to reduce the size and reshape the breasts. Once these tissues are excised, they do not grow back. However, it's important to note that factors such as weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and aging can still impact the appearance of the breasts over time. Nonetheless, the majority of patients experience a significant and permanent reduction in breast size, improved breast shape, and relief from physical discomfort and associated symptoms.
Dr. Levens has been providing breast reduction for women in Coral Springs, Fort Lauderdale, and throughout Broward County since 1989. To learn more about breast reduction surgery or to schedule your complimentary consultation, contact us today.
