Breast Reduction

Serving patients from Salem, Roanoke and Cave Spring, VA

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Breast Reduction Procedures

Many women in Roanoke Valley and other Virginia locales are bothered by breasts that are too large or too pendulous. At the Salem, VA, office of Dr. Carol A. Wray, breast reduction offers these area residents the chance to improve the symmetry of their bodies and ease the discomfort of heavy breasts. As a board-certified Plastic surgeon, Dr. Wray welcome patients from Salem, Roanoke, Cave Spring and beyond to schedule an initial consultation at The Center for Plastic Surgery at Ridgewood Hill.

What is breast reduction?

Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is the process of decreasing the breast size, as well as lifting and reshaping the breasts. Not only does it achieve a more aesthetic and proportionate look, but breast reduction also frequently relieves back, neck and shoulder pain.

Who can undergo breast reduction?

To be an ideal candidate for the procedure, breast reduction patients who come to our Salem location should have breasts that are fully developed. For that reason, the surgery is usually not recommended for teenagers and younger women.

Dr. Wray and her surgical staff have assisted many women in our community, such as residents of Salem, Roanoke and Cave Spring. Most breast reduction patients come into our Salem office feeling uncomfortable because their breasts are too large for their bodies. A majority also experience physical discomfort, including shoulder, neck and back pain; shoulder grooving or strain; and poor posture. Many complain about their inability to compete in sports due to the size of their breasts.

Does insurance cover breast reduction?

Before considering breast reduction, you should try conservative measures to help alleviate your symptoms. This would include being properly fitted for a bra, using wide straps on your bra, taking over-the-counter pain medications for a trial period of three or more months, losing weight if needed and doing back-strengthening exercises. If you continue to have significant problems because of your breast size, then breast reduction may be covered by insurance.

How is a breast reduction performed?

There are several different methods that Dr. Wray may use when performing breast reductions in Salem. The one chosen for you will ultimately come down to a decision between you and Dr. Wray. Your breast reduction will make your breast smaller, lift it and reshape it. There will usually be a circular scar around the areola (the dark skin around the nipple), a scar coming down from the nipple and a scar in the breast crease, creating an anchor shape.

What can be expected after breast reduction?

You will be wrapped in a large dressing and probably have two drain tubes coming out. About five to seven days after your breast reduction, you will return to our Salem office to have your dressings and drains removed. You will then be placed in a support bra. No muscles are cut during a breast reduction, so pain is usually considered mild to moderate. However, you can expect to be bruised and a little sore.

How soon can I return to work and my usual activities?

You can be up and walking the day after your breast reduction in Salem. In fact, this is encouraged. You should not do any heavy lifting, straining or strenuous activity until cleared by Dr. Wray. Most breast reduction patients can be back to work in one to two weeks and can start vigorous exercising in about four to six weeks.

Is breast feeding possible after breast reduction?

To make the breast smaller, tissue is removed that will cut across the milk ducts, making the ability to breast feed less likely. The nipple sensation or projection could be altered, which may also affect your ability to breast feed. If you wish to breast feed It is recommended that you wait to have your breast reduction until after you are finished with childbearing. It is certainly OK to try and breast feed after a breast reduction, as long as you understand that this may not be possible.

Do I get to pick the size I will be?

Dr. Wray cannot guarantee a specific cup size, but she will discuss your goals with you and talk about what can realistically be obtained with breast reduction.

What complications can arise after breast reduction?

Bleeding and infection can complicate any surgery, and only occurs about 1 percent of the time with breast reduction. Poor wound healing can be an issue because the scars are on the underside of the breast, bearing its weight. Smoking significantly increases healing problems because nicotine decreases blood flow in the skin. Other medical issues, such as diabetes or obesity, can also lead to difficulty with healing. Scarring can be significant, as well. Once all the swelling and bruising has settled, the breasts may be uneven in size or nipple height. The nipple sensation could be altered or lost, and this may be permanent.

For more information about Breast Reduction in Virginia:

The professionals at The Center for Plastic Surgery and MediSpa are always available to answer any questions regarding our breast reduction procedures. We welcome patients from across the region, including Salem, Roanoke and Cave Spring. Please give us a call at 540-444-4343 to schedule a consultation. You can also schedule a consultation online by clicking here: Schedule a Consultation Online - Breast Reduction.