About Maryland Plastic Surgeon Dr. Markmann

Breast Reduction (Male & Female)

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Overly large breasts can cause some women to have both health and emotional problems. In addition to self image issues, you may also experience physical pain and discomfort. The weight of excess breast tissue can impair your ability to lead an active life. The emotional discomfort and self-consciousness often associated with having large pendulous breasts is as important an issue to many women as the physical discomfort and pain.

What is Breast Reduction?

Reduction Mammoplasty (breast reduction) removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with your body and to alleviate the discomfort associated with overly large breasts.

Breast Reduction

Breast Reduction

Breast Reduction is a good option for you if:

You are physically healthy
You have realistic expectations
You don't smoke
You are bothered by the feeling that your breasts are too large
Your breasts limit your physical activity
You experience back, neck and shoulder pain
You have regular indentations from bra straps that support heavy, pendulous breasts
You have skin irritation beneath the breast crease
Your breasts hang low and have stretched skin
Your nipples rest below the breast crease when your breasts are unsupported
You have enlarged areolas caused by stretched skin

Breast Reduction

The technique used to reduce the size of your breasts will be determined by your individual condition, breast composition, amount of reduction desired, your personal references and the doctor's advice. He will explain the risks and any potential complications associated with this surgery in detail at your consultation and your subsequent pre-operative visit.

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The incision is usually a circular pattern around the areola and an inverted "T" or anchor-shaped incision vertically down from the nipple. The results of your breast reduction surgery are immediately visible. Over time, the swelling will resolve and the incision lines will fade.

Breast Reduction

Recovery

Dressings or bandages will be applied to the incisions and possibly an elastic bandage to minimize swelling and support the breasts as they heal. A small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect. Following the doctor's instructions is key to the success of your surgery. It is important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, abrasion, or motion during the time of healing. Oral pain medication will be given to minimize your discomfort. Time off of work is approximately 7-10 days but varies depending on how well you are healing and type of work you do.

The results of breast reduction surgery will be long-lasting. Your new breast size should help relieve you from the pain and physical limitations experienced prior to breast reduction. However, over time your breasts can change due to aging, weight fluctuations, hormonal factors and gravity.

Breast Reduction

Cost

The total fee will include the surgeon's fee, hospital costs, anesthesia fees, and your follow-up visits. A realistic estimate can be given after a consultation with the doctor to discuss your specific needs. Financing plans are available so please ask us. Please keep in mind that the surgeon's experience and your comfort with him are just as important as the final cost of the surgery.