Breast Reduction

Cosmetic Surgeon Palo Alto – Facts about Breast Reduction Surgery

Do you want an experienced cosmetic surgeon? Palo Alto surgeon Dr. Lowen performs breast reduction surgery to help his patients from San Jose, Palo Alto, and Sacramento areas enjoy a more proportionate figure and improved self-confidence. Use the links below to learn more about this option or contact our plastic surgery center today to schedule a consultation with our cosmetic Surgeon, Palo Alto.

• Breast Reduction Overview
• Breast Reduction Incisions
• Breast Reduction Recovery
• Insurance Guidelines

Breast Reduction Overview

Reduction mammoplasty, or breast reduction is performed by the cosmetic surgeon, Palo Alto patients trust, Dr. Robert Lowen, in order to reduce the size of large, heavy breasts. Women who want this operation may have symptoms of neck, shoulder, or upper back discomfort, chafing under the breasts, grooving of the skin under their bra straps, and poor posture. Breast reduction may also be desired if the patient finds that her breasts interfere with activities and exercise, or her sense of attractiveness, self-confidence, or self-esteem.

The goal of breast reduction is to obtain a more attractive breast contour and smaller breast size, relief of symptoms associated with excess weight of the breasts, an improved self image, and increased ease of movement in daily activities and exercise. The surgery is done under general anesthesia either as an outpatient procedure or in the hospital. Depending on the patient’s age, general health, and extent of the reduction, an overnight hospital stay may be required. The cosmetic surgeon, Palo Alto patients trust, Dr. Lowen will discuss your options prior to a final decision.

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Breast Reduction Incisions

A brief summary of the possible breast reduction incision types is included below. Visit our Mountain View center to learn more.

Standard or Classical Breast Reduction

Standard breast reduction incisions are made around and below the areola (pigmented area around the nipple), and in the fold below the breast (infra-mammary fold).

Vertical Scar Breast Reduction

This technique involves incisions placed around and below the areola down to the inframammary fold. No incision is made along the inframammary fold at the initial procedure. Occasionally a short inframammary incision is required at a secondary revisional procedure. The goal is minimal scarring along the fold.

Concentric, Peri-areolar Reduction

Also called purse-string breast reduction, this technique involves the placement of an incision only around the areola. The goals of the cosmetic surgeon, Palo Alto’s Dr. Lowen is for minimal scarring on the breast.

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Breast Reduction Recovery

Dressings and a supportive brassiere remain in place during the first week after breast reduction surgery. Sutures are removed between one and two weeks, and patients may undertake light activity during the first two weeks and return to light work at two weeks. A non-constricting support bra is worn day and night for the first two months. Scars gradually fade over a six to 12 month period. During your breast reduction consultation at his center serving Mountain View, the South Bay, East Bay, and surrounding areas, Dr. Lowen, cosmetic surgeon, Palo Alto can provide more detailed information about what to expect during your recovery based on your individual needs.

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Insurance Guidelines

Insurance coverage may be available for the breast reduction procedure. Photographs and a letter documenting the condition are sent to the insurance company and a request for authorization is obtained in order to schedule surgery. However, smaller breast reductions done primarily for cosmetic reasons may not be approved by insurance carriers, who may set restrictive criteria for insurance coverage in terms of volume removed. The professional staff at An Enhanced You Cosmetic Surgery can help you understand your options and make educated choices about your care.

Find out more about breast reduction by contacting our Mountain View plastic surgery center. We serve the South Bay, East Bay, and the entire San Francisco Bay Area from our conveniently located office.

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