Today, because of advances in surgical techniques, thousands of women with these problems are being helped through a surgical procedure called reduction mammaplasty or breast reduction. This surgery is designed to improve the body contour, reduce pain, and make you more comfortable when engaging in physical activities.

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Before Surgery
Prior to surgery, a complete medical history is taken in order to evaluate your general health. The breasts themselves are then examined thoroughly to determine the most effective surgical approach. Dr. Edds will discuss with you the type of anesthesia to be used, the procedure, what results might realistically be expected and possible risks and complications.

Mammograms or x-rays may be taken as well as photographs. Preoperative instructions often include the elimination of certain drugs containing aspirin for several weeks before surgery in order to minimize the possibility of excess bleeding.

The Procedure
A breast reduction is usually performed at Owensboro-Mercy Health Systems. Dr. Edds may choose from a variety of surgical procedures, depending upon what changes are desired. Prior to surgery, premedication is administered to relax you, and the breasts are carefully marked to indicate where incisions are to be made. General anesthesia is utilized for breast reduction

One of the techniques most frequently used is called a brassiere pattern skin reduction. This technique involves both vertical and horizontal incisions made around the nipple area after which excess fat, tissue and skin are removed from the sides of the breast. Following the excision, the nipple, areola (dark, pink area encircling the nipple) and tissue below are relocated but not detached. Small sutures are used to close the incisions.  A breast reduction can take three to five hours or more, depending upon the extent of the surgery

Following Surgery
Following surgery, you will wear a dressing and/or surgical bra. Pain connected with the procedure is minimal to moderate and is controlled with oral medication. Antibiotics will be prescribed to prevent infection. Instructions for the day of surgery include bed rest with limited activities. The physician determines when normal activities can be resumed; however, strenuous exercise and overhead lifting must be avoided in the immediate post-operative.

Sutures are removed in about seven days. Numbness around the treated area may occur, but this condition is usually temporary. Swelling and discoloration disappear in a few days, and scars from incisions, although permanent, fade significantly with time.

Complications of infections and slow healing are rare; however, there are certain inherent risks connected with every surgical procedure, which should be thoroughly discussed with Dr. Edds. You can minimize complications by carefully following directions given by Dr. Edds. Some patients who experience poor healing may require additional treatment.

Will Insurance Reimburse For This Surgery?
Some insurance companies will reimburse part or all of the costs of this surgery if it is performed as a result of back or neurological problems related to large breasts. Each insurance carrier is different, and it recommended that individuals check with their own agents to determine if there is coverage.

If you are interested in learning more about this procedure, please call our office at (270) 926-9033 and we will be happy to answer questions about the procedure itself or about procedure cost and financing.