Women with large pendulous breasts may be unhappy with their body image. The weight of excess breast tissue may place a strain on the neck, back, and shoulders. Frequently, large breasts alter the type of clothing choices and physical activities that limit an active and full life. In order to address these issues, Dr. Sasaki offers breast reduction surgery at his Pasadena plastic surgery practice.
Breast reduction surgery will not only remove and contour excess breast and fatty tissue, adjusting skin to the new breast shape, but will also elevate the nipple-areola complex to a height proportional to the woman’s body. Your first decision begins with a consultation with Dr. Sasaki, who will obtain your complete breast history and explain the appropriate surgical options based upon your physical examination and goals.
View Before & After Photos
Breast reduction may be performed on one breast to gain optimal symmetry to the opposite side. Most commonly, both breasts are reduced and elevated. Some insurance companies consider breast reduction surgery as a reconstructive procedure based on the quantity of tissue removed and the significance of physical complaints and symptoms. Pre-certification by your insurance carrier is often required for reimbursement and coverage. Breast reduction may be performed at any age, but ideal candidates are those whose breasts are fully developed. Since a significant amount of breast tissue may be removed, breast feeding may be compromised.
Dr. Gordon H. Sasaki
Triple Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Few plastic surgeons can match Dr. Sasaki's combination of expertise, compassion, and experience. He's a distinguished educator and a renowned innovator whose work and research have influenced a generation of plastic surgeons. Dr. Sasaki will work with you to make the improvements you desire.
Incision Placement
Incision patterns depend on the amount of breast tissue removed, skin adjustments, and the quality of the skin’s elasticity. For smaller breast reductions, a circular incision around the areola permits removal of breast tissue, skin reduction, and elevation of the nipple-areolar complex. For larger and drooping breasts, a racquet-shaped incision pattern is used around the areola and extends vertically downward toward the inframammary crease line. Occasionally, an anchor-shaped incision is appropriate for extremely large and pendulous breasts. Your doctor will discuss the type of incisional pattern based on your breast dimensions, composition, and amount of skin and breast reduction in order to obtain the best scars and results. In some cases, only liposuction may be used to remove fatty tissue to reduce breast volume if skin is not a concern.
The doctor and his staff will distribute specific instructions to you for diagnostic testing and postoperative medications. The surgical procedure may be performed at a certified outpatient facility or in the hospital. Dr. Sasaki will encourage you to speak to your assigned anesthesiologist prior to your surgical procedure.
Recovery & Results
Following surgery, an elastic dressing will be applied to protect your incisions and to provide support. The dressings are removed on the third postoperative day in order you may shower and cleanse the incision lines. The small sutures are removed between the second and third week. A soft supportive brassiere may be worn thereafter until healing is completed. The final results will appear over the next few months as the breast shape, position and sensation continue to improve.
Are you ready to discover all the ways Sasaki Advanced Aesthetic Medical Center in Pasadena can enhance your appearance and confidence? Request a consultation using our online form or call for an appointment.