Breast Augmentation and Reduction | HealthInfi

Overview

Breast Augmentation and Reduction is a novel concept in breast enhancement and only recently has it been described in the plastic surgery literature. For over a decade, however, I have been perfecting this alternative procedure, performing over 300 cases with great success and high patient satisfaction.

Breast augmentation today is one of the most frequently performed plastic surgery procedures, while breast reduction is commonly offered to women with overly large breasts that cause patient discomfort. In essence, the BAR procedure combines the best of these two procedures, removing saggy breast tissue at the bottom of the breast and adding volume to the upper breast with the implant. The nipple-areola complex is moved to the ideal place on the face of the new breast. Compared to a breast reduction, the BAR procedure offers great benefits in terms of breast shape and location on the chest. It truly is the best of both worlds.

A mastopexy, or breast lift, does not require removal of breast tissue, but instead, reshapes the tissue and moves the nipple-areola complex to an improved location. This “lifting” procedure results in an improved shape but, again, the shape may not be particularly “youthful” and will not hold up over time; the breast will sag again within four months. A breast lift without an implant does not add superior breast fullness and if anyone tells you otherwise, I suggest you consult another surgeon.

According to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, in 2012, more than 10 million cosmetic surgical procedures were performed in the United States. Breast augmentation surgery remained the number one cosmetic procedure for women, followed by liposuction.

As breast aesthetic surgery becomes more common, past stereotypes and stigmas are changing. In a HealthyWomen survey, 53 percent of women said they were more accepting of breast augmentation than they used to be. Women surveyed described other women who have undergone breast augmentation surgery as confident (60 percent) and feminine (61 percent).

On the opposite end of the spectrum of breast aesthetic surgery is breast reduction. This procedure, which may be considered a cosmetic surgical procedure, is often performed to relieve significant physical and emotional problems resulting from overly large and/or heavy breasts. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2012, a total of 110,438 breast reductions were performed (including both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures).

Whether you choose to have your breasts increased, lifted or reduced, it’s important that you understand not only the benefits of the procedures, but the risks, costs and various surgical options available to you.Read More