Procedure Ideal Candidates Risks & Complications Recovery In/Out Patient

Hi! I'm Dr. John Farella; a board certified plastic surgeon. The decision to undergo Breast Reduction is an exciting one. It is my belief, that an educated patient allows you to determine your personal goals, and enables you to make an informed decision. I have developed this brochure as a patient information source. Hopefully, this information will prepare you for your consultation.

If you have large, sagging breasts that may be the cause of physical problems such as back, neck, or breast pain, breast- reduction surgery may improve or eliminate your symptoms. Large, pendulous breasts over time, may lead to postural problems and chronic arthritis. Reducing the weight of the breasts allows comfort, and prevention of skeletal abnormalities. Patients also find it easier to exercise, and find clothing that fit their new shape.

	Procedure

Breast Reduction or Reduction Mammaplasty, reduces the size of your breasts by making your breasts more proportional to the rest of your body. Breast-reduction is a procedure where excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are removed. The nipple and areola is lifted (usually the areola is reduced in size), and skin that was located above the nipple is brought down, pulled together and sutured to improve the shape and contour. The once tear-dropped shaped breasts will become more conical. The type of incision used depends on the size and shape of the breasts. The most common method makes one incision around the nipple area, another that runs vertically from the bottom edge of the areola to the crease underneath the breast, and a third incision beneath the breast. Keep in mind; the incision lines are designed so that they will be concealed under the bra. However, the resulting scars are permanent and unpredictable, but should fade over time.

	Ideal Candidates

		Patients with back, neck or shoulder pain caused by the weight of their breasts
		Patients that have heavy, sagging breasts with low nipples and areolas
		Patients with breasts that are too large in proportion to the rest of their body
		Patients with indentations in their shoulders caused by bra strap grooving
		Patients whose activities are limited because of the size of their breasts
		Patients who are self-conscious about the size of their breasts
		Patients who have one breast that is much larger than the other
		Patients who are in good health
		Patients who are doing it for the right reasons (i.e. for themselves)

	Risks and Complications

The risks and complications may include, but are not limited to bleeding, infection, change in nipple and skin sensation, abnormal scarring, excessive firmness of the breasts, asymmetry, allergic reactions, and risks and complications associated with anesthesia. Keep in mind that although risks and complications may occur, they are rare.

Risks and potential complications of surgery are best discussed at the time of your consultation.

Smokers have a greater risk of skin loss, pulmonary, and wound healing complications.

Breast disease and breast cancer can occur independently of breast reduction surgery.

	Recovery

Within the first week any drains placed will be removed. Dressings will also be changed. Within two weeks, mild exercise and non-strenuous work may be resumed, and bruising and swelling will begin to diminish (will vary from patient to patient). After a few months your breasts will settle into a more natural shape. As with all cosmetic procedures, the final result will be apparent by about one year. Without that excessive weight, you may find that you enjoy life much more, and can engage in physical activities you did not think possible.

	In/Out Patient

Breast-reduction surgery can be done as an out-patient or in-patient. It is done under general anesthesia and usually takes two to three hours.

Call for a complimentary consultation: John F. Farella, MD., F.A.C.S (914) 241-7111 Lexington Avenue Suite 104 - Mount Kisco, NY 10549 (914) 997-9090 311 North Street Suite 408 - White Plains, NY 10605 (718) 548-5200 3333 Henry Hudson Parkway Suite 1-A - Riverdale, NY 10463 http://www.drfarella.com