Breast Reduction

Breast reduction is a surgical procedure that reduces the size and weight of a woman’s breasts. It is typically sought after by women who experience physical discomfort, pain, or emotional distress due to excessively large breasts. The surgery involves removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to reshape a more proportional and balanced breast size. Women with large breasts often face self-consciousness and discomfort. Breast size can lead to persistent physical problems like neck, back, and spinal issues. It can significantly impede a patients’ ability to enjoy physical activities and it may create obstacles in other aspects of their lives. Fortunately, there is a solution to the burdensome weight and discomfort associated with having excessively large breasts. 

Dr. Michael J. Yoo, a renowned board-certified Orange County, and Beverly Hills plastic surgeon, has the experience patients look for when considering breast reduction surgery. With his expertise and skill, Dr. Yoo can help women achieve their desired breast size and alleviate the physical and emotional challenges associated with macromastia. Reach out to our office today and arrange a consultation to learn more about how breast reduction can empower you to embrace your optimal lifestyle. Call (949) 861-3340 or reach out online to schedule a consultation today.

Dr. Yoo finds patient education an important aspect of cosmetic surgery. He offers a blog to connect his patients to the information that can help them make life-changing decisions.

Before and After Photos

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About Breast Reduction

When a woman’s breasts grow too big, it is called mammary hypertrophy. This means they become so large they cause problems. The growth is not related to sickness or disease, in fact, scientists don’t know exactly why it happens. 

Symptomatic macromastia is a unique combination of physical, psychosomatic, and behavioral symptoms that vary from woman to woman based on excessively large breasts. When a woman has macromastia, she may experience things like ^[1]:

When a woman has macromastia, it can even affect her entire body. The extra weight in the front of her chest can put a strain on the back and affect the way her backbone works. It can change the forces that help keep her body upright and in the right position. ^[2]

Reduction mammoplasty, commonly known as breast reduction, is specifically designed to decrease the size of a woman’s bust by removing excess breast tissue and skin. The surgery not only reduces volume but also enhances: 

Women now have the opportunity to relieve the burden from their chests and experience a renewed sense of joy in their bodies. Dr. Yoo delivers exceptional outcomes, offering his patients a chance to embrace a new and liberating life. Those who undergo breast reduction surgery often report the highest levels of satisfaction with their transformed appearance and improved well-being.

Breast Reduction Techniques

There are several breast reduction techniques available, all aimed at achieving the same goal of reducing breast size, but they employ different approaches. The specific technique Dr. Yoo will use depends on the size of the breast being addressed. 

In most cases, incisions are made around the nipple-areola and extend vertically down towards the lower part of the breast crease, resembling a “lollipop” shape. For larger reductions, an additional incision may be made in the breast fold, creating an “inverted T” or “wise pattern” incision. Incisions typically heal well, and the resulting scars are generally acceptable to most patients since the benefits far outweigh any scarring.

What are the Benefits of Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction surgery offers numerous benefits for women who choose to undergo the procedure.

By reshaping and lifting the breasts, this procedure can create a more aesthetically pleasing and proportionate breast appearance, contributing to an overall improved body image and quality of life.

Ideal Candidates for Breast Reduction

Women considering a breast reduction procedure should meet certain criteria to ensure optimal results and minimize risks. It is important for candidates to

The ideal candidate for breast reduction surgery is someone seeking to surgically reduce the size and shape of their excessively large breasts. These women often experience discomfort or physical limitations due to the weight and burden of their breasts. It’s important that candidates are not pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to have children in the future, as these factors can impact the final outcome.

If you are a woman in Orange County or Beverly Hills who is looking to reduce the weight and size of your breasts, address asymmetry, and regain enjoyment in your life, a breast reduction procedure may be the right choice for you. We encourage you to reach out to our office and schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Michael Yoo. This consultation will provide you with personalized information on how a breast reduction can significantly improve your quality of life.

Your Personal Consultation with Dr. Yoo

During the initial consultation, Dr. Yoo and the patient will engage in a thorough discussion. They will talk about the physical symptoms the patient is experiencing and the desired breast size. Dr. Yoo will carefully review the patient’s

A physical examination will also be conducted to assess the patient’s candidacy for the surgery. Once it is determined that the patient is suitable for breast reduction, Dr. Yoo will collaborate directly with them to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to their specific aesthetic goals.

At the end of the consultation, patients will have the opportunity to schedule a date for their breast reduction procedure. However, it is important to note that this is not obligatory, as patient comfort and confidence in their decision are of utmost importance to us. If the patient decides to proceed, we will provide them with all the necessary information and preparations required before undergoing the surgery.

Call (949) 861-3340 to schedule your consultation.

Preparing for Your Breast Reduction

To ensure the utmost safety and achieve the best possible results, our office will provide patients with important instructions to follow in the weeks leading up to their breast reduction procedure. Dr. Yoo advises all patients to avoid taking any anti-inflammatory medications for two weeks prior to the surgery. For those who smoke, it is strongly recommended to quit smoking three weeks before the procedure to promote overall health and safety.

Additionally, it is highly recommended that patients arrange for a reliable mode of transportation to and from the surgery, as they will be unable to drive themselves home on the day of the procedure. This precaution helps guarantee a smooth and comfortable experience.

If you have any questions or concerns during this preparation period, our friendly and supportive staff is available to assist you in any way possible. Your well-being and peace of mind are our top priorities.

The Breast Reduction Procedure

Prior to the breast reduction procedure, Dr. Yoo will carefully mark the incision points on the breasts. These markings are determined based on individual considerations discussed during the consultation. Once the accurate markings are in place, a certified anesthesiologist will administer general anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort throughout the surgery.

Dr. Yoo will then commence the procedure by making an incision around the areola using the incision technique discussed during the pre-operative appointment. After addressing the breast tissue, Dr. Yoo will remove any excess skin and carefully lift the breasts while repositioning the areolas to ensure symmetry and an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Dr. Yoo uses sutures that are absorbable, which means they dissolve on their own and do not need to be removed. To further reinforce the incision lines, taping is applied, and it should be left undisturbed until it naturally falls off. This helps support the healing process and promotes optimal results.

In certain situations, Dr. Yoo may incorporate liposuction as part of the breast reduction procedure to assist in reducing breast mass. The extent of liposuction performed varies from patient to patient.

After surgery, the patient will be transferred to the recovery area, where they will be closely monitored before being released to return home. This post-operative monitoring ensures the patient’s well-being and allows for any necessary instructions or guidance to be provided before continuing the recovery process.

Recovery After Breast Reduction

Following the breast reduction procedure, a light surgical bra is typically worn for the initial 4-6 weeks. This specialized bra provides essential support to the newly shaped breasts during the healing process. In some cases, temporary drainage tubes may be used for larger reductions to aid in fluid removal and reduce swelling. These tubes are removed once the fluid output indicates sufficient internal healing.

To promote circulation and minimize the risk of blood clots, it is recommended that patients engage in gentle walking exercises during the recovery period. However, strenuous activities should be avoided initially. 

Depending on the nature of their occupation, most patients can typically return to work within 1-2 weeks. It is important to gradually increase activity levels as tolerated over the following weeks, allowing the body to adjust and heal. Full activity is typically permitted around 6 weeks post-surgery, but it is essential to follow the specific guidance provided by Dr. Yoo and his team to ensure optimal recovery.

What are the Results of Breast Reduction in Orange County?

Patients will experience immediate changes in both appearance and physical sensations following the breast reduction procedure. However, the final and long-term results will become more apparent within approximately 4-6 months after the surgery. During this time, the breasts continue to heal and settle into their new shape.

The transformative effects of breast reduction speak for themselves, leading to high levels of patient satisfaction. Our breast reduction patients express great happiness and newfound confidence in their figures. They often rave about their well-proportioned breasts and the boost in self-esteem they have experienced. With the reduction in breast size, patients also tend to experience an increase in energy levels as they are no longer burdened by the weight and bulk of overly large breasts. Activities that were once challenging, such as running, become more feasible and enjoyable.

Furthermore, patients notice significant improvements in the fit of bras and clothing. Finding well-fitting garments becomes easier and more enjoyable, contributing to a sense of comfort and enhanced body image. Overall, breast reduction surgery has proven to be a life-changing procedure, providing our patients with not only physical relief but also a renewed sense of confidence and freedom.

What is the Cost of Breast Reduction in Beverly Hills?

The cost of breast reduction surgery can vary depending on individual factors and insurance coverage; certain insurance providers may cover the cost of the procedure. We suggest our patients contact their insurance provider before scheduling a consultation to have an accurate discussion about potential coverage and costs.

If you are interested in learning more about breast reduction surgery, we encourage you to reach out to our office at 949-861-3340 or schedule a consultation online. Our dedicated team would be delighted to provide further details about the procedure, address any inquiries you may have, and assist you in determining whether breast reduction is the right approach to help you achieve your goals. Call today!

References

1. Doft MA, Chiang AL, Hardy KL, et al. Examining reduction mammaplasty in Hispanic and African American populations: a changing landscape in American plastic surgery. Journal of plastic, reconstructive & aesthetic surgery: JPRAS. 2011;64(12):e341-343. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjps.2011.07.026
2. Foreman KB, Dibble LE, Droge J, Carson R, Rockwell WB. The impact of breast reduction surgery on low-back compressive forces and function in individuals with macromastia. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2009;124(5):1393-1399. https://doi.org/10.1097/PRS.0b013e3181b988aa