While breast augmentation is the more common surgical procedure, many people actually undergo a procedure called reduction mammoplasty or breast reduction surgery to correct problems associated with large breasts.
Large, heavy breasts may have an aesthetic appeal but overly heavy bosoms can take a toll on the body and cause certain problems, particularly back pain.
This is especially true if the bosoms are disproportionately bigger compared to the individual's body.
To correct the problem and avoid complications that could happen as the person gets older, surgical correction is often required.
How is breast reduction surgery performed? According to most cosmetic surgeons, breast reduction surgery is more straightforward compared to cosmetic augmentation.
The procedure involves the removal of tissues in order to reduce the size of each breast and create a more aesthetically pleasing profile.
Incisions may be made at the crease of the breast and/or around the nipples.
From these, the surgeon then removes excess tissues, fat and skin.
Since the mass of the bosoms are smaller, adjustment in the position of the nipples is usually performed.
Nipples are now placed higher on the breast so the proportion is maintained.
How much is a breast reduction? Breast reduction surgery cost depends on the surgeon's fees, the cost of anesthesia and the cost of the facility.
How much a doctor will charge for the operation is highly variable and will often depend on his or her qualifications and the procedure itself.
In general, however, expect to pay about $500-$2,000 for the use of the medical facility where the procedure will be performed and about $1,000-$1,500 for the anesthesia.
With the surgeon's fee added, the average cost of breast augmentation surgery can range from about $5,000 to around $7,000.
Additional or supplemental procedures such as a liposuction may raise the cost.
It is also possible for the surgery to be more expensive if a more extensive procedure has to be done, such as in the case of oversized breasts.
Risks Like all surgeries, breast reduction does carry certain risks.
It can, for example, result to swelling, infection, bleeding and bruising.
Breast reduction scars may also appear on some individuals depending on the patient's body and natural healing capability.
Scars may also appear depending on the surgical technique used.
In some patients, the surgical procedure may also lead to the reduction or even complete loss of nipple sensation on the affected breast, which could be temporary or permanent.
In some cases, the procedure may even interfere with breastfeeding.
Before undergoing this type of surgery, make sure that you discuss with your surgeon all possible results and complications so you know what to expect.