Breast Reduction
Breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty), which reduces breast volume to a woman's requested size, is among the most highly requested procedures at our practice.
In fact, many surgeons concede that breast reduction boasts the highest satisfaction rate among cosmetic procedures.
Women who have long dealt with large, heavy, and pendulous breasts often complain of postural changes, grooves in the shoulders from the bra straps, and of course,
embarrassment in a variety of situations. What's more, they often have grave difficulty exercising - logically, the result of this is increased weight gain. Finally, a
number of unhealthy conditions can result, including:
- Neck and back pain
- Skin irritation and rashes
- Skeletal deformities
- Breathing problems
When one can be alleviated of so many unfavorable symptoms with one procedure, it's no wonder that breast reduction is among Dr. Heil's top patient requests.
Following your recovery as a Pittsburgh breast reduction patient of Premier Plastic Surgery, you can enjoy a more liberating physical form - and, perhaps, an enhanced self-image.
Breast Reduction in Pittsburgh: The Initial Consultation
During your pre-scheduled consultation appointment with Dr. Heil, the first course of action will be to discuss your medical history and goals. Scars, nipple sensation,
and breastfeeding issues will be discussed as appropriate. Our Pittsburgh breast reduction surgeon will ask questions pertinent to these topics, and patients should be prepared
to answer to the best of their ability.
Next, the examination portion will serve to evaluate a patient's current breast size, shape, skin tone and degree of ptosis (droop). Proportion and the appropriate degree
of reduction will be discussed, of course, as each woman has specific goals and unique anatomical considerations.
Finally, health insurance may be a topic of discussion, as patients with certain healthcare plans find that their insurance covers a portion of the surgery. If this is the
case for you, the insurance carrier will likely require a letter and photos from the office of Dr. Heil. Patients should be aware that the approval process can take several
weeks to months.
Pittsburgh Breast Reduction: The Surgical Procedure
Most patients are aware that breast reduction surgery reduces the size and the weight of the breasts, and often improves breast shape as well. This is achieved by a
three-fold process, as follows:
- Repositioning the nipples (see below)
- Reducing excessive breast tissue and stretched out skin
- Redraping the skin to a tighter, firmer state
A word about nipple repositioning: The incision around the nipple does not actually remove the nipple; conversely, it leaves the nipple attached to the underlying breast
so that it may be re-positioned to the new, higher location. The new position allows the reduced breast weight to be redistributed, away from the back, neck and shoulders -
leading to significantly increased comfort and a more attractive appearance.
Following your experience as a Pittsburgh breast reduction patient of Premier Plastic Surgery, you will be given specific post-operative and follow-up care instructions.
Strict adherence is imperative for patients who wish to heal properly and completely.
Breast Reconstruction
For women in the recovering stages of breast cancer or other illnesses requiring mastectomy, breast reconstruction may be a welcome solution. Using safe, FDA approved
breast implants, Dr. Heil helps each patient attain the breast symmetry she once enjoyed - with results that look and feel natural and attractive.
Breast Reconstruction in Pittsburgh: The Consultation
For obvious reasons, breast reconstruction will require a more detailed medical history discussion than other breast enhancement procedures. Dr. Heil will conduct a
thorough exam, wherein the entire chest anatomy will be evaluated in order to form the best surgical plan possible. The proper size, shape, and type of implant to be used
will also be discussed during that time. For more information on breast implants, please see our breast augmentation page.
When insurance issues apply, patients will discuss these with the doctor at length. Insurance carriers may require correspondence and photos from the office of Dr. Heil
and any other doctors who treated the patient for breast cancer and related conditions. Patients should be aware that the approval process can take several weeks to months.
Pittsburgh Breast Reconstruction: The Surgical Procedure
As stated, breast reconstruction involves re-forming the breast using a saline or silicone gel breast implant. Typically, implants used in breast reconstruction are
placed below the pectoralis (chest) muscle, a position also known as submuscular placement. When circumstances allow, our experienced Pittsburgh breast reconstruction
surgeon can also utilize alternate techniques for reforming the breast. For example, some cases allow for a patient's own breast tissue to be used (either partially or
completely) in breast reconstruction. This is another option to discuss with Dr. Heil during your consultation.
Additionally, it is possible for mastectomy surgery and breast reconstruction to be performed concurrently. While Dr. Heil may be able to accommodate this request,
optimal patient cooperation, as well as unhindered communication with her cancer treatment doctors, are of utmost importance.
Finally: As with any surgery, strict adherence to breast reconstruction post-operative guidelines from our office is crucial. If you have any questions regarding your
recovery and post-operative care, don't hesitate to ask.
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