For women considering a breast reduction surgery, the results can feel like a weight has been lifted off their chest, literally. A breast reduction, also known a reduction mammoplasty, decreases breast size, excess weight and volume. A breast reduction can provide relief from back, shoulder and neck pain as well as the ability to resume exercising or other tasks that may have been difficult to perform due to extra weight. Poor posture, chronic rashes and difficulty breathing or sleeping round out other reasons patients seek a breast reduction.  Some patients also opt to have their areolas reduced and, in some cases, have the removed excess tissue tested for breast cancer. 

A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, raises the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to create a more youthful breast contour. A breast lift raises the breasts, and often repositions the nipple to sit higher up on the chest. A breast lift does not add or decrease volume as the breast is reshaped with existing tissue, but it does help with sagging breasts, breast unevenness and downward pointed nipples. There are 3 main types of incision patterns for a breast lift surgery. These options include a circular incision around the areola, around the areola and vertically down from the areola to the breast crease, and a vertical lift with the addition of moving horizontally along the breast crease. The choice in incision pattern is largely based on the severity of breast sagging and skin laxity.

Are you still wondering which procedure is right for you? Did you know that you do not necessarily have to choose as a breast reduction usually includes a breast lift? As most cases of breast reduction are due to larger heavier breasts, that are prone to droopiness and sagging, resulting in the complimentary need for a lift at the same time. The combination of procedures provides proportionate and perky breasts with natural looking results. 

At David W. Allison, MD our board-certified plastic surgeons provide unsurpassed aesthetic excellence to reshape and lift your breasts. To determine if you are a candidate for a breast reduction and lift, call 703-754-8228 or visit WEBSITE to schedule an appointment to meet with one of our surgeons to discuss your unique and personal goals.