Breast reduction performed by Dr. Chang in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, is a surgical procedure designed to decrease the size and weight of overly large breasts (macromastia) to create a more balanced proportion with the rest of the body. At Rehoboth Plastic, Derm Center, & Medispa, breast reduction is performed by double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Lawrence Chang.
What Is Breast Reduction?
Reduction mammaplasty, or breast reduction, is a procedure to remove excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to decrease volume and reshape the breasts. The goal is to create a chest that is lighter, more proportionate, and more comfortable while maintaining a natural appearance.
Macromastia can develop due to:
- Pregnancy
- Weight gain
- Genetics
- Puberty
- Medications (penicillamine)
In addition to aesthetic concerns, enlarged breasts may contribute to chronic neck, shoulder, and back discomfort, shoulder grooving from bra straps, and recurrent irritation beneath the breasts.
Breast reduction is frequently completed as a standalone procedure, but can also be performed as part of breast cancer reconstruction. Following a mastectomy and reconstruction on one side, reducing the opposite breast can create a more balanced appearance.
Good Candidates for Breast Reduction Surgery
Ideal breast reduction candidates are women whose breast size causes physical discomfort, emotional distress, and/or limitations in daily activities. Many patients seek treatment because they experience persistent neck, shoulder, or back pain, skin irritation beneath the breasts, difficulty exercising, or shoulder indentations from bra straps.
Women with breast asymmetry, including asymmetry related to breast cancer treatment or developmental changes that occurred during puberty, may also benefit from the procedure. Patients must be in good physical and mental health, be able to maintain a stable weight, have realistic expectations, and not smoke.
Your Breast Surgeon Consultation
During your first appointment with Dr. Chang, he’ll take time to understand why you are considering breast reduction and what you hope to achieve from surgery. He will review your medical history, medications, allergies, previous surgeries, mammogram history, smoking status, and any family history of breast conditions.
A detailed examination of the breasts will be performed to evaluate their size, skin quality, nipple position, symmetry, and overall proportions. Measurements and photographs may be taken to assist with surgical planning and documentation.
What Happens During Breast Reduction Surgery?
Depending on the extent of the operation, breast reduction may be performed as an outpatient procedure or involve an overnight hospital stay. It is typically performed under general anesthesia.
Once the patient is comfortably asleep, Dr. Chang carefully removes redundant breast tissue, fat, and skin while reshaping the breasts to achieve a smaller size that is more proportional to the body. The nipple-areola complex is repositioned to complement the newly contoured breast shape.
The average breast reduction procedure takes approximately two hours. After the reshaping is complete, the incisions are closed with sutures, a supportive surgical bra is applied, and temporary drains may be placed to assist with healing.
The Breast Reduction Recovery Process
A surgical support bra is typically worn immediately after surgery, followed by a compression-style sports bra for six weeks. Drains are generally removed within the first week of recovery.
Most patients can return to light daily activities, including driving and lifting light objects, within approximately 10-14 days. Scar management over the healed incisions with a topical silicone gel or Vitamin E may start at three weeks. More strenuous exercise should be postponed until cleared by Dr. Chang, usually after about six weeks.
Dr. Chang is an amazing surgeon! He was highly recommended and I now know why … He has the hand and eye of a master sculpter. His team calmed my nerves with thier humor and great bedside manner. I received a breast reduction. I could not be happier with the results.
Thank you Dr. Chang and his team 💖
Benefits of Breast Reduction
- Reduces neck, shoulder, and back discomfort
- Relieves skin irritation beneath the breasts
- Improves comfort during exercise and daily activities
- Creates a more balanced body proportion
- Reduces bra strap pressure on the shoulders
- Improves clothing fit
- Enhances confidence and body image
- Improves symmetry
How Much Does Breast Reduction Cost in Delaware?
The cost of breast reduction varies depending on factors such as the amount of tissue being removed, surgical complexity, facility fees, anesthesia price, and the patient’s individualized treatment plan. Because every procedure is customized, the final price can only be determined after a consultation.
Insurance Coverage for Breast Reduction
Unlike many cosmetic procedures, breast reduction can sometimes qualify for insurance coverage when it is performed to address documented physical distress associated with macromastia. If your symptoms suggest that breast reduction might qualify for insurance coverage, Dr. Chang will discuss the specific requirements that may apply.
In some cases, insurance providers require documentation of symptoms and a six-week period of conservative management with physical therapy and prescription creams (for the skin irritation) before approving surgery.
FAQs
Learn More About Breast Reduction in Delaware
If overly large breasts are affecting your comfort, confidence, or quality of life, contact Rehoboth Plastic, Derm Center, & Medispa to learn more about breast reduction surgery. Dr. Lawrence Chang can evaluate your concerns, explain your options, and help you determine whether breast reduction is the right solution for your needs.
