There are many factors that go into choosing the right size for your breast reduction. Your surgeon and medical team will provide guidance based on your medical history, but there are also some things to keep in mind when choosing the right size:
-Your breasts may feel different after surgery. Whether they feel smaller or bigger is up to you, but it’s important to know how they will feel before deciding on what size bra to buy after surgery.
-It’s common for women who have had a breast reduction to experience swelling for several weeks after their procedure. This can cause their breasts to feel larger than normal during this time period, even if they were sized down before surgery.
This article also considers the questions that says can i get a breast reduction if im overweight and how many cup sizes can you reduce naturally.
Breast Reduction Size Guide
How do you decide what size to be after breast reduction surgery?
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Women who choose to have breast reduction surgery are typically extremely happy with the results. Most patients feel that they are much more comfortable, fit in clothes better, and can exercise much more easily. For all these reasons, the patient often sees tremendous gains in self-esteem, fitness, health, and appearance.
Choosing a size after surgery depends on each patient’s goals, desires, starting size and shape.
For example, a young, fit woman who is an active athlete who is a D cup starting out, may wish to be a small B cup afterward. And this may suit her frame and sports endeavors. This breast size after surgery may be inappropriate, indeed impossible, for a patient with a much larger size and significant skin droop. For many patients who are exceptionally large, anything smaller than what they have is an improvement, even if that means ending up a D or DD cup size.
It is difficult to predict cup sizes after surgery for a number of reasons. Bra cup sizes are not standardized between manufacturers, so a C cup in one company may be a D in another. So instead of focusing on cup sizes, most plastic surgeons consider skin measurements in centimeters as a better way to size patients. We measure from the base of the neck (what we call the “sternal notch” to the nipple distance). We then measure from the nipple to the bottom of the breast- the “inframammary fold”. Now we have real numbers to compare among patients.
Regardless of a patient’s height or weight, we find that as long as the nipple height is near the height of the inframammary fold, and the distance from the nipple to the fold is not more than 10-12cm, then patients are pretty comfortable with their breast size. With these measurements, a woman’s bra straps do not have to work very hard to keep the breast in a centered position. We would rarely see such measurements in patients seeking reduction surgery unless they were in the active athlete category and wanted the benefit of a smaller size so they could more easily take part in their profession or hobby, such as tennis, gymnastics, golf, or running. ( The “sports reduction”, as I call it, is a fantastic procedure in the right patient).
So if, for example, a patient comes into the office with a starting breast measurement of 35 cm nipple to neck, and 15 cm to the fold under the breast, then we can be VERY sure that our final result will be MUCH more comfortable. If we raise the nipple height to the level of the fold under the breast (24 cm is likely in this patient) and define a distance from the nipple to the fold of 8 cm, then in most cases, this patient will be a small D cup after surgery. For a very wide and heavier patient, the bra size may still be a DD, though a more slender patient may end up with a C cup with these same measurements. but most all patients will end up very happy!
(Dr. Suzman Breast Reduction Patient with 35 cm nipple to sternal notch distance and 15 cm to inframammary crease(left) and result after reduction surgery 24 cm/8cm)
For patients who want to be significantly smaller– some just have suffered too long with very large breasts and want to be as small as possible– more tissue can be removed to make a smaller size. In a larger, heavier patient, this means that the breast will be quite flat and not at all “perky”. Perkiness is not typically a concern of such patients who just want comfort. For smaller and more petite patients who want a very small breast size, this can also be accomplished with breast reduction surgery, though they do run an increased risk of numbness or inability to breastfeed after surgery. Each patient must balance these pluses and minuses of surgery to make the best decision for themselves.
On realself.com, an online website devoted to patients interested in plastic surgery procedures, over 98% of patients say going through breast reduction surgery was worth it. This is a very high number for a surgical procedure!
At our WESTMED plastic surgery practice, I personally perform about 2 breast reductions a week, so it is a very common surgery. If you want to learn more about breast reduction or our “sports reduction”, come and meet us in person in our Westchester office (Only 30 minutes from Manhattan NYC) or our Greenwich CT office.
Learn More about Breast Reduction Risks and Benefits
Dr. Suzman Sports Breast Reduction from D cup to B cup bra
Dr. Michael Suzman is one of the country’s busiest plastic surgeons who has been honored to have patient satisfaction rates in the top 1% of doctors in the country according to the Press Gainey Survey.
New York Magazine, U.S. News and WORLD report and Westchester magazine have all listed him as a top doctor for Plastic Surgery.
Breast reduction surgery involves many choices. The first and most important is selecting a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) surgeon you can trust.
Dr. Suzman recommends RescueMD skin recovery gel for treatment of incisions and scars after surgery.
Do not be confused by other official sounding boards and certifications.
The ABPS is recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), which has approved medical specialty boards since 1934. There is no ABMS recognized certifying board with “cosmetic surgery” in its name.
By choosing a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, you can be assured that you are choosing a qualified, highly trained plastic surgeon who is board-certified by the ABPS or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
BREAST REDUCTION GUIDE
What is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction is a cosmetic surgery procedure that reduces the size and weight of large, heavy breasts, helping to create a more aesthetically pleasing breast contour that is better proportioned to a patient’s body. By removing excess breast tissue, fat, and sagging, stretched skin, a cosmetic surgeon can not only make the breasts smaller, lighter, and firmer, but also improve breast symmetry and eliminate sagging.
While many patients choose breast reduction to alleviate physical symptoms such as back, neck or shoulder pain, shoulder grooves, or discomfort while exercising, the cosmetic benefits of breast reduction should not be overlooked:
- Your breast will be lifted and firmer, helping you look more youthful
- Bras will fit more comfortably and attractively
- With better proportioned breasts, your overall silhouette will be more balanced and attractive
- Stretched areolas and/or large nipples can be reduced during the same procedure, helping you look better in and out of clothing
- Swimsuits, sports bras, and form-fitting clothes will look and feel better, helping boost your confidence during activity
Choosing a Cosmetic Surgeon
If you’re considering having a breast reduction, choosing a cosmetic surgeon is the most important decision you’ll make. While some in the plastic surgery field consider breast reduction to be a reconstructive procedure, a patient’s goal is rarely to solely correct physical symptoms without any consideration for aesthetic improvements. You should feel confident that your cosmetic surgeon can both reduce your breasts to the right size to alleviate any discomfort caused by large breasts and create a more beautiful breast shape that looks natural with your body.
When you visit potential surgeons, ask how frequently he/she performs breast reduction surgery and how many total procedures that surgeon has performed. View before and after photos, not just on a surgeon’s website but also during your consultation, paying close attention to the results of patients whose “before” photos look similar to you and whose breasts in the “after” photos look good to you—this will help you understand a cosmetic surgeon’s aesthetic style, which will play a significant role in how your breasts will look after surgery.
Make sure your cosmetic surgeon is board certified; this ensures that he or she is specifically trained and experienced in cosmetic surgery and that your procedure will take place in an accredited facility, which is essential for your safety. Finally, don’t choose a cosmetic surgeon based on price alone. Your safety & results are too important. Most cosmetic surgeons offer financing options to help patients budget procedure costs.
Breast Reduction Options
Cosmetic surgeons can use one of several different surgical techniques when performing breast reduction; which technique a surgeon will use for any given patient depends on the patient’s existing breast anatomy, the type and amount of tissue to be removed, and the patient’s desired outcome.
Liposuction for Breast Reduction
In certain cases, breast reduction can be performed using liposuction alone.
The advantages of liposuction for breast reduction are a shorter, less invasive procedure, virtually undetectable scars on the breast, and lasting results. However, this technique will only achieve optimal results in certain patients. The best candidates are those who need or desire a slight to moderate reduction in breast size, have good skin elasticity and little to no sagging to correct, and whose excess breast size is largely due to excess fatty tissue.
If you have sagging, asymmetrical breasts, stretched skin, or a more significant amount of tissue to remove, one of the next breast reduction techniques will probably benefit you the most.
Vertical or “Lollipop” Breast Reduction
Patients who need a moderate reduction in breast size and have more noticeable sagging are often good candidates for a vertical breast reduction. This involves two incision sites: one is around the edge of the areola, and a second incision running vertically from the bottom of the areola to the inframammary fold, or the crease beneath the breast. This incision pattern allows a cosmetic surgeon to remove excess fat, skin and breast tissue, reshape the new smaller breast internally, and lift the breast into a more youthful position.
While a vertical breast reduction leaves some scarring on the breast, it is limited to the area below the nipple and therefore can be easily hidden beneath a bra or bikini top.
Inverted-T or “Anchor” Breast Reduction
The inverted-T breast reduction involves 3 incisions: one around the edge of the areola, one vertically from the areola to the breast crease, and one made along the crease underneath the breast. Because this technique allows for the maximum degree of tissue removal and reshaping, cosmetic surgeons will typically use this approach if a patient needs a more significant breast size reduction and/or has considerable sagging or asymmetry to correct.
The scars resulting from an inverted-T or anchor breast reduction are similar to those from a vertical reduction, with one additional, thin scar running along the crease beneath the breast. With proper care, scars typically fade considerably over the first year or so after surgery and are easily concealed by clothing, even a bikini top.
Breast Reduction Surgery & Recovery
Breast reduction surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure using general anesthesia or intravenous sedation with local anesthesia. After making the incisions using one of the techniques described above, your cosmetic surgeon will remove excess breast tissue, fat, and skin, moving the nipple/areola complex to a higher, more forward position on the chest. The remaining breast tissue and skin will be reshaped and closed with dissolvable sutures. The areolas can be reduced to a more proportional size during the procedure as well.
After spending a brief time in supervised recovery, you will be able to go home that same day to continue your recovery. Your chest will be bandaged, and you may be sent home in a surgical bra. You can expect to feel considerable soreness the first couple of days after your procedure, and your cosmetic surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help keep you comfortable during this initial period. Gently placing ice packs on top of the bandages can help alleviate discomfort as well.
The amount of time you need to recover from breast reduction will depend on your natural healing rate as well as the extent of surgery performed. You will be able to get up and walk around the same day of surgery, although you should have a trusted adult with you during the first 24 hours. While you may be permitted to shower a few days after surgery, you will probably need help getting dressed, as you will not have full range of motion in your chest and shoulders at first.
Most patients feel ready to drive and return to a desk job within 1 week, after they are no longer taking prescription pain medication. Your cosmetic surgeon will likely have you wait a minimum of 3 to 4 weeks before resuming exercise other than walking; this helps to ensure your incisions heal properly. It is essential to follow your cosmetic surgeon’s regarding activity after breast reduction.
Life After Breast Reduction
Because it both alleviates physical and emotional discomfort and enhances a patient’s appearance, breast reduction can be one of the most rewarding cosmetic surgery procedures. Patients note an increase in self-confidence as well as a renewed sense of freedom to wear the clothes they want to wear and participate in physical activities they had previously avoided.
While many patients experience an immediate relief from back and shoulder pain after breast reduction, it is important to understand that it will take some time for your final results to settle in. Swelling, soreness, and tingling are typical after breast reduction, so your new smaller breasts may appear a little larger than you had expected while initial swelling is present. Additionally, the breasts often heal at a different rate, so you may notice some asymmetry during the first few months of your recovery.
After about 2-3 months, your final results will be more or less in place and you can shop for new bras with confidence. However, you may notice subtle changes for the first 6 to 12 months.
Will the Results of Breast Reduction Last?
After breast reduction, you can expect to enjoy smaller, lighter breasts for a lifetime, so long as you maintain a stable weight and do not have any more children. However, nothing can stop the normal aging process. Eventually your breasts will probably begin to sag once again, although not as severely as they might have before breast reduction.
Also, future pregnancies are likely to change the shape, size, and appearance of your breasts, possibly reversing some of the positive changes made during breast reduction. If you are planning to have more children, talk to your cosmetic surgeon. He or she can help you weigh the pros and cons of having surgery now or waiting until you have finished having children.
If you have questions about breast reduction or are considering having surgery, we encourage you to consult with a board certified cosmetic surgeon, who can help you learn more about how this procedure might help you. You can find cosmetic surgeons in your area by using our ABCS Find-a-Surgeon tool.
Can I Get A Breast Reduction If Im Overweight
The beast candidate for breast reduction has fully developed breasts. Your weight should be stable. If you plan on losing weight it is better to do so before surgery. Your BMI is 35 (based on your height and weight) it is considered best practice to operate on a patient that has a BMI of less than 30.
How Many Cup Sizes Can You Reduce Naturally
1. Exercise
Regular exercise can help shed chest fat and strengthen the muscles underneath the breasts to reduce their size.
Because the breasts contain a portion of fat, focusing on cardio and high-intensity exercises can help shed weight faster and target problem areas. Aerobic exercises — such as stair climbing, cycling, and power walking — can speed up your metabolism and help you lose all-around body fat.
Strength training exercises like pushups can also tone the chest and change the appearance of breasts. Pushups can tighten and tone the chest muscles to reduce the overall size of the breast. However, strength training and targeted exercises alone won’t reduce breast size. Without cardio or a full body workout, some exercises can make the breasts appear larger.
Exercising for 30 minutes at least four times a week is recommended.
2. Diet
What you eat plays a part in the amount of fat you store in your body. Overall body fat can contribute to breast size.
Maintaining a balance of exercise and a healthy diet will optimize your weight loss and the decrease your breast size. Eating more calories than you burn causes you to accumulate fat and makes your breasts grow.
Lean meats, fish, fruits, and vegetables are foods that help to burn fat outside of your regular workout. Eating fewer processed foods and sweets will also help you shed pounds faster.
3. Green tea
Green tea is another natural remedy known to promote weight loss. Green tea contains a number of antioxidants and can boost your metabolism to burn fat and calories. This reduced fat buildup will help reduce the size of your breasts. Drinking green tea throughout the day can also increase your energy.
4. Ginger
Similar to green tea, ginger can help to stimulate your metabolism and burn excess fat throughout your body. While you can include it in your meals as a natural ingredient, nutritionists recommend drinking it as a tea three times a day to speed up your metabolism and boost weight loss effects.
5. Flax seed
Some fatty acids, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, are necessary for brain function, lowering blood pressure, and regulating hormones. This is essential in breast reduction since an imbalance in hormones can trigger growth.
Unfortunately, our bodies don’t naturally produce some of the nutrients we need to thrive. We have to get them from eating foods high in these substances. Flax seed — along with fish like salmon and tuna — is high in omega-3 fatty acids. It can help to regulate estrogen levels and ultimately decrease breast size. It’s also known for improving your digestive processes.
You can add flax seed to your foods or drink it with water. You may also be able to find nondairy flaxseed milk and ground flaxseed egg replacer at your local health food store.
6. Egg whites
Another way to reduce breast size is through improving skin tone. Breastfeeding, aging, and weight loss can cause the breasts to sag over time. Sometimes, this can make the breasts appear larger than they are. You can try an egg white mask to return elasticity to your breast skin.
Beat two egg whites until they form a foam, and then apply it to your breasts. Leave the mask on for 30 minutes and then remove it with warm water. As it begins to dry, you may notice a natural firming of your skin. However, this is temporary as the egg whites flake off or wash away.
7. Clothing
If natural remedies don’t work for you, you may be able to reduce the appearance of your breasts by wearing well-fitting clothes. Invest in a properly fitted bra that provides breast support and coverage. Also, wearing darker colors and monitoring the necklines of your shirt can take attention away from your bust.