Unlike breast augmentation, breast reduction surgery is often covered by medical insurance carriers. In many cases, the large breasts cause symptoms and surgery is required for relief. The only way to find out coverage is to call your insurance company
The cost of breast reduction surgery depends on the extent of surgery, who does it and where you have the procedure done. The average costs of surgery range from $ 5000-10,000. Prior to undergoing the surgery, determine whether it covers the cost of anesthesia, medicines and possible stay in the hospital. Many cosmetic surgeons have a similar mentality to car mechanics- they have a habit of adding unnecessary expenditures to the final bill.
In most cases, the individuals who undergo breast reduction surgery are young and healthy.
Thus, there are no extensive preparations required before surgery. However, one should:
- avoid smoking at least 3-5 weeks before surgery
- stop taking aspirin like medicines at least a week before the procedure
- discuss with the physician when to stop any blood thinners
- mammograms are generally not required in females under the age of 40
Reduction mammoplasty is usually done as an outpatient procedure. Prior the actual surgery, the surgeon will obtain photos and mark the areas on the breast where the incisions will be made. The procedure is generally done under general anesthesia and takes anywhere from 2-3 hours.
After the surgery, there is a recovery period of 2-4 hours and if all is fine, you maybe able to go home.
There are a variety of techniques to reduce the breast size and each surgeon has his/her own style and favorite method. In all cases, the excess breast issue is removed and the excess skin cut away. The nipple is placed back in its original position. There are also a number of variations on how to deal with the nipple during surgery. The more manipulations done to the nipple, the more sensitive it becomes after surgery.
In all cases, the breasts are covered with a tight compression dressing to help prevent bleeding and maintain the breast in place. Some surgeons may elect to leave a piece of plastic tube under the breast to help drain the blood. The tube may remain anywhere form 5-14 days.
The pain is not very severe but pain medications are required for the first 48 hours. If the surgery has been extensive and associated with some bleeding, your surgeon may decide to keep you in the hospital for an overnight stay.
Someone must drive you home
Immediately after surgery, there is some tenderness and the breast area will be sensitive to touch. The entire chest area will be bruised and swollen. These side effects will subside over the next few days to weeks. The scars are usually not visible once you are clothed.
The majority of individuals who undergo breast reduction require at least 2-3 weeks to recover.
One may return to work after this time period. Heavy exercise and sporting activities should be avoided for at least 3-5 months. The final shape of the breast may not become apparent for at least 4-6 months
