Breast Reduction & Uplift

Breast reductions and breast uplifts are common cosmetic surgeries.

Breast enhancements are the most well-known breast-related surgeries. However, many women need or choose to have breast reductions and breast uplifts, instead. There are a number of reasons to get either surgery, and a number of considerations to take into account.

Breast Reduction Reasons

Overly large breasts can cause a number of problems. Among these are neck, shoulder and back pain. Some women experience painful grooving in their skin due to strained bra straps and skin irritation. All of this can cause poor posture, as well. Women who experience these problems may also cease to exercise due to the discomfort caused by the practice. Many women choose to have their breasts reduced when they are exhibiting these symptoms.

Breast Reduction Surgery

During a breast reduction, the surgeon makes three incisions. The first is around the areola, or the edge of the nipple. An incision is then made from the nipple down to the base of the breast at the crease on the lower half. A final incision is then made along the crease of the breast. Tissue is then removed from the breast to reach the desired size. The tissue behind the nipple is left intact in an attempt to maintain sensitivity after the surgery.

Breast Uplift Reasons

Many women who undergo a breast reduction also simultaneously have breast uplift surgery. This procedure is designed to reshape and firm the breasts, something that women after a breast reduction often feel they need. Women whose breasts have sagged because their skin has lost elasticity or they have experienced rapid weight loss, have been pregnant or have been breast-feeding, may also look into having a breast uplift.

Breast Uplift Surgery

A breast uplift involves the same three incisions that are made during a breast reduction, though the cut from the areola to the breast crease may not be necessary. Rather than removing tissue, a breast uplift involves removing skin to "firm" the breasts and reposition the nipple. Because of the similarity of the two procedures, breast reductions and uplifts are usually performed at the same time. However, a breast uplift can also be performed at the same time as a breast enhancement or may even be done on its own.

Considerations

As with any surgery, it is important to consult your doctor before making any decisions, as there may be factors, such as a medical condition, which may make cosmetic surgery inadvisable. Both procedures will also cause a certain level of scarring. However, the scars will fade, although they generally will not entirely disappear, and they are positioned in such a way so that they are easily hidden underneath clothing. It is also important to remember that while a breast uplift may maintain breast firmness for a number of years, it is not a permanent measure.

References

• University of Pennsylvania Health System: Breast Reduction and Augmentation
• Surgeon to the Stars: Breast Uplift