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Why Get Breast Reduction Surgery?

Overly large breasts can have a heavy toll on women. Heavy, large breasts are associated with pain due to excessive weight and can result in neck, back, and shoulder issues. Skin irritation may also occur as a result of friction from bras.

Beyond that, going clothes shopping becomes a mentally taxing task, as finding a good fit is considerably difficult. Large breasts can also make exercising a difficult task. Patients who are considering breast reduction surgery in New Jersey can contact our office to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Hamawy.

What is Breast Reduction Surgery?

A breast reduction, otherwise known as reduction mammoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery that reduces the size and weight of excessively large breasts, giving the patient an elegant, balanced silhouette. Breast reduction surgery can address all of the cosmetic and functional issues of women with overly large breasts by extracting excess tissue and fat from the area. The remaining breast tissue is then redefined and sculpted into visually appealing and harmonious breasts.

How is the Surgery Performed?

Breast reduction surgery is carried out in our luxurious Princeton offices with anesthesia to ensure that patients experience complete comfort and tranquility throughout the procedure. Either twilight or general anesthesia will be employed, depending on what the doctor thinks is best. During the procedure, Dr. Hamawy removes excess tissue and fat from the patient’s breasts, creating a silhouette that is smaller and more aesthetically appealing. Prior to every surgery, Dr. Hamawy carries out a thorough assessment of the patient’s medical history and current situation to determine the best course of action.

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What are the benefits of breast reduction?

Breast reduction can be a life-changing procedure, enhancing your appearance while restoring your quality of life. Among its many advantages are the following:

  • Creates a more balanced, proportionate upper body profile
  • Relieves strain and discomfort in the neck, shoulders, and back
  • Addresses chafing and irritation from bra straps
  • Improves hygiene
  • Allows you to enjoy a wider range of clothing options
  • Boosts self-confidence
  • Improves stamina and energy

The Aging Breast

Breast Reduction

Where Are the Incisions Made?

The type of incision and where it is made are mostly determined by how much tissue requires extraction. Some cases may call for a “lollipop” incision, which involves making a cut that encircles the areola and heads down vertically to the lower side of the breast. In cases where an excessive amount of tissue must be extracted, a traditional anchor incision will need to be employed, which starts in the breast fold and goes up to the nipple. Some women may only need a crescent (donut-shaped) incision, which encircles the areola.

Before & After Breast Reduction New Jersey

What to expect at your consultation

During your consultation, Dr. Hamawy will examine your breasts, take preoperative photographs, and review your medical history. He will discuss your concerns in detail and begin to create a personalized treatment plan for resolving your aesthetic issues. If you are worried about scarring, loss of nipple sensation, or breastfeeding after surgery, this is an excellent time to have Dr. Hamawy answer all your questions. Dr. Hamawy will also show you before and after images of previous patients with similar body types. Lastly, you will be informed of the costs for surgery as well as financing options.

How to prepare for breast reduction

After breast reduction, you will need someone to drive you home, as you will still be groggy from the anesthesia. It is wise to schedule this helper ahead of time. You may also enlist them to assist you for the first few nights with basic chores around the house. Dr. Hamawy may ask you to complete lab work and additional testing prior to surgery. A mammogram, for instance, is typically required, taken within the last six months. You may also be asked to adjust your medication schedule and discontinue any supplements or herbs you are currently taking. If you smoke, you must quit several weeks prior to surgery, as smoking can significantly interfere with your results and recovery. Dr. Hamawy advises that you avoid aspirin and other blood-thinning medications that might intensify bleeding.

Who is a Candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery in New Jersey with Dr. Hamawy?

Virtually all women who are unhappy with the appearance of their breasts or are suffering from medical issues such as pain in the neck, back, and shoulder pain are considered good candidates for this procedure. Skin infections caused by friction beneath the breasts are also a good indicator that the procedure will be needed. As with any procedure, it is vital that patients be in good physical and mental health and have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure.

Dr. Hamawy's breast reduction surgery in New Jersey can improve patients’ lives by:

  • Reducing the weight and size of their breasts
  • Giving them a more balanced figure
  • Reduction of sagging of the breasts
  • Addressing shoulder, neck, and back pain
  • Alleviating irritation and skin rashes
  • Relocating the nipple to a higher, more aesthetically pleasing location
  • Giving patients a boost in self-confidence

What is the Recovery Process Like?

Generally speaking, most patients who undergo breast reduction surgery at our Princeton office don’t report any excessive pain. There is often some discomfort, however, and patients can expect bruising and redness for the first few weeks following their procedure.

Patients will need to take off at least one week from work after undergoing the procedure. While light activity is allowed after a few days, it is vital that patients refrain from engaging in any strenuous activities, such as pushing, pulling, lifting, or vigorous exercise for at least three weeks.

Breast Reduction New Jersey

Is Breast Reduction Surgery Covered by Insurance?

Every coverage policy has its own stipulations. Usually, health insurance plans will cover the procedure provided that it is found to be a medical necessity for the patient. Our personable staff has years of experience helping patients work with their insurance companies to get what they need.

Is Nipple or Areola Reduction a Part of the Procedure?

This decision is left up to the patient. It is common for women who seek out breast reduction to also want their nipples to be reduced for aesthetic reasons. Nipple reduction surgery and breast reduction surgery can be carried out simultaneously.


Why Should I Choose Princeton Plastic Surgeons?

Dr. Adam Hamawy has become known as one of New Jersey’s most experienced surgeons with a keen eye for detail. He understands how difficult it is to be emotionally or physically affected by imperfections in the body, and he dedicates himself to helping his patients improve their quality of life.

Dr. Hamawy uses all information gleaned from the breast reduction consultation to curate a treatment plan that will help patients achieve their desired look. Patients who choose Princeton Plastic Surgeons for breast reduction surgery in New Jersey receive only the most cutting-edge, effective treatments available today.

"I felt super comfortable with him even during the uncomfortable moments. I’ve been to other doctors for a breast reduction consultation who made me feel uncomfortable. I would recommend him to anyone!"

V.S.

FAQ

Will there be scarring with breast reduction?

There are several options for the incision pattern with breast reduction. Dr. Hamawy will choose the best one based on your anatomical needs and your personal preferences. In all cases, the doctor does his utmost to minimize the appearance of scarring by placing incisions in inconspicuous locations, such as along the breast crease where they are hidden by the bra line. Incisions placed around the nipple will be nicely hidden by the darker pigments of the areola. After surgery, Dr. Hamawy can suggest scar revision creams or other scar-reducing techniques.

What are the risks of the procedure?

All surgeries come with risks but these are greatly minimized by choosing an accomplished, credentialed provider such as Dr. Adam Hamawy. Possible risks of breast reduction include the following: Bleeding, infection, anesthesia reactions, fluid accumulation, allergic reaction to certain materials used such as adhesives or sutures, swelling, bruising, skin discoloration, temporary nerve damage, temporary numbness, changes in nipple sensitivity, asymmetry, problems breastfeeding, deep vein thrombosis, and others. Dr. Hamawy will discuss potential complications in detail during your private consultation.

Can I breastfeed after breast reduction?

Yes. In most cases, women will be able to breastfeed after surgery. Be sure to let Dr. Hamawy know that you plan to nurse in the future so he can adjust his techniques and incisions accordingly. Experts suggest that having breast reduction surgery over five years before becoming pregnant can improve the likelihood of a strong milk supply.

What’s the difference between a breast reduction and a breast lift?

A breast reduction focuses on removing excess tissue, skin, and fat from the chest, reducing the cup size. The surgery comes with a natural lifting effect. A breast lift, on the other hand, will address only sagging skin that occurs as a result of aging, pregnancy, or massive weight loss, leaving the breasts more or less the same size. The two procedures can be combined in cases where both breast size and skin sagging need to be addressed simultaneously.

Is breast reduction painful?

Patients are under general anesthesia during their surgery, meaning they are asleep and feel no pain. After surgery, there may be mild swelling and soreness in the chest. Dr. Hamawy will provide prescription pain medications to enhance your comfort during this period. Most patients switch to over-the-counter painkillers within 2-3 days after surgery.

Can breast reduction be combined with other procedures?

Yes! Breast reduction is often a component of a mommy makeover, which is a combination procedure to address multiple aspects of a woman’s body at the same time, reducing overall recovery time along with costs. Breast reduction can also be combined with liposuction, abdominoplasty, or even a facelift.

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