The least invasive way to reduce breast size is liposuction. Liposuction Breast Reduction has many advantages from it less invasive nature: there are no large scars, there is no risk of loss of the nipple or areola, which can occur in  up to 1% of open breast reduction surgeries. Loss of nipple sensation is even a more common adverse event with open breast reduction and does not occur with liposuction breast reduction.     On the other hand, liposuction  breast reduction gives a smaller lift to the breast. Open surgical breast reduction can give a larger lift and larger breast reduction. Open surgical breast is usually better for very large breast that need a lot of reduction or very droopy breasts that need a lot of lift. They are both reasonable options and both have their advantages and disadvantages. 

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Breast reduction is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the amount of breast tissue. Reduction is recommended for women that experience a significant amount of discomfort due to the weight and size of their breasts (shoulder, back, neck pain). They may have difficulty exercising or wearing certain types of clothing.

During surgery, excess skin, fat and breast tissue may be removed as well to improve sagging. The sagging nipple position is corrected and the breast is reshaped. The incision is typically made around the nipple, extending vertically down to the crease, and then ending in a horizontal line within the breast crease (similar to the aforementioned mastopexy). While this operation is technically similar to a mastopexy, it is performed for a very different reason.

Prior to considering surgery, you should consider alternatives that can help with the symptomatology associated with excess breast tissue. This can include weight loss, physical therapy, and medical therapy (for pain). This should be documented by your primary care physician as this will be important from an insurance perspective in creating a case for medical necessity.

Generally speaking, all breast reductions are excisional to some extent. There are variations in scar pattern (lollipop vs. anchor). However, they all involve some degree of invasiveness. Liposuction may be useful as an adjunct, however, it will only address excess fat. The breast, however, is composed of both fat and glandular tissue. Thus liposuction alone is a less than adequate way to treat the breast as a whole.

As always, seek out a board-certified plastic surgeon (ABPS) to discuss your options.

Published on Jul 11, 2012