Breast Reduction Surgery Cost Cincinnati

When you think about breast reduction, you might imagine a woman who has always hated her breasts and wants to get rid of them. But that’s not how it works! Breast reduction is actually a very common procedure, and it’s most often done on women who have had children, who have large breasts that cause back pain and posture problems, or who are experiencing pain from other health issues like arthritis or breast cancer.

Breast reduction surgery is also often performed for aesthetic reasons—especially for people who want smaller breasts after losing weight.

So what does breast reduction cost? We’ll break down all the costs involved so you can prepare yourself for what lies ahead if you decide to undergo this procedure.

In this article, we’ll also discuss breast reduction surgery cost ohio and dayton ohio plastic surgeons.

Breast Reduction Surgery Cost Cincinnati

Breast Reduction

Cincinnati Plastic Surgery Specialists in Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty)

Thank you for considering UC Health Plastic Surgery for your plastic surgery procedure. We offer a safe, comfortable atmosphere in our modern, state-of-the-art facility located in West Chester, Ohio, convenient to both Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio. We offer a friendly staff of nurses and administrative support to help with your scheduling issues and questions.

What is Reduction Mammoplasty?

Breast reduction surgery (also known as reduction mammoplasty) removes fat, tissue and skin from the breasts, resulting in breast that are higher on the chest wall, more aesthetic and proportionate to the overall body shape, while relieving the physical discomfort caused by overly large breasts (known as macromastia). Breast reduction can be performed at any age, but it is advisable to wait until the breasts have stopped developing. Women who plan to have children and breast feed should discuss this with their plastic surgeon because breast reduction surgery may impact the ability to breast feed, and changes are likely to occur to the breasts as a result of pregnancy and childbirth.

Procedure Benefits

• Reduce breast size for balanced body symmetry
• Reduce grooving from bra straps
• Reduce skin irritation and rashes under breasts
• Reduce head, neck, back, and shoulder pain
• Improve ability to engage in physical activities

Private Consultation

At our conveniently located Cincinnati offices, you will discuss your expectations with your surgeon as to the desirable size and shape of your breasts. After discussing your medical history, the surgeon will examine your breasts. The surgeon or a female assistant will photograph your breasts for preoperative and postoperative reference; these photographs are needed to obtain insurance coverage if applicable. Your surgeon will describe the procedure, including the risks and limitations, as well as the cost which may or may not be covered by your insurance company.

Preparation

If you have a medical condition such as high blood pressure, it must be controlled before you can undergo this procedure. After you have scheduled a surgery date, you will make an appointment for pre-admission testing and a physical exam. Your surgeon may also require you to have a mammogram (breast x-ray) before your surgery. You will receive guidelines on eating and drinking, taking vitamins and medications, and smoking. Smoking should be stopped 2-3 months before the operation because it reduces the blood supply to tissue. In fact, some surgeons will refuse to perform elective surgery on smokers due to this risk. You should arrange for someone to drive you home from our Cincinnati offices after your surgery and to help you out for a few days.

Procedure Overview

The procedure usually takes 2-4 hours and is performed in the surgical facility in West Chester. Breast reduction is performed under general anaesthesia, so you will be asleep during the entire operation. Postoperative hospitalization is expected. During the operation, the nipple and areola of each breast will be moved to a higher position, usually without actually removing them from their nerve supply so that nipple sensation remains after the surgery, as does the ability to attain an erect nipple and to breast feed. The surgeon then removes excess glandular tissue, fat and skin, reapproximates the skin from both sides of the breast around the areola, and shapes the new contour of the breast. If necessary, liposuction may be used to remove excess fat from under the armpits. Stitches are usually around the areola and in a vertical line extending downward. In many cases, there is also a scar horizontally under the breasts.

Recovery and Healing Time

After surgery, a surgical bra will be placed over gauze dressings. A small tube may be placed in each breast to drain off blood and fluids for a day or two. You may experience some pain for a few days, so your surgeon will prescribe pain medication. The bandages will be removed a day or two after surgery, but you need to continue wearing the surgical bra for several weeks until the swelling and bruising subside. Your stiches are usually dissolvable. You may experience random pain for a few months, and there will be some loss of feeling in your nipples and breast skin at first, but this usually fades over the next six weeks. Most women can return to non-strenuous work and social activities in about two weeks, and you should able to return to full activity within 4-6 weeks. However, you should limit your physical activities, and you may be instructed to avoid sex for a week or more to avoid swelling of your incisions. A small amount of fluid or crusting around your incisions is normal, but you should contact your surgeon if you have bleeding or severe pain.

Procedure Risks

• Adverse reaction to anaesthesia
• Swelling
• Redness
• Infection
• Scarring
• Nipple or breast numbness
• Loss of ability to breast feed

UC Health Plastic Surgery in West Chester, has three nationally recognized Cincinnati plastic surgeons.

Located north of Cincinnati, we serve West Chester, Mason, Loveland, Indian Hill and the rest of Greater Cincinnati and Dayton for all of their plastic surgery procedure needs.

Breast Reduction

Breast Reduction

The first step:

Choose a surgeon you can trust

Plastic surgery involves many choices. The first and most important is selecting a surgeon you can trust.

Choosing an ASPS Member Surgeon ensures that you have selected a physician who:

• Has completed at least five years of surgical training with a minimum of two years in plastic surgery.
• Is trained and experienced in all plastic surgery procedures, including breast, body, face and reconstruction.
• Operates only in accredited medical facilities
• Adheres to a strict code of ethics.
• Fulfills continuing medical education requirements, including standards and innovations in patient safety.
• Is board certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery or in Canada by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada^®.

ASPS Member Surgeons are your partners in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery.

Look for the ASPS Member Surgeon logo.

Beauty for life:

Enhancing your appearance with breast reduction surgery

Overly large breasts can cause some women to have both health and emotional problems. In addition to self image issues, you may also experience physical pain and discomfort.

The weight of excess breast tissue can impair your ability to lead an active life. The emotional discomfort and self-consciousness often associated with having large pendulous breasts is as important an issue to many women as the physical discomfort and pain.

Also known as reduction mammaplasty, this procedure removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with your body and to alleviate the discomfort associated with overly large breasts.

Is it right for me?

Breast reduction is a highly individualized procedure and you should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else’s desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image.

Breast reduction is a good option for you if:

• You are physically healthy
• You have realistic expectations
• You don’t smoke
• You are bothered by the feeling that your breasts are too large
• Your breasts limit your physical activity
• You experience back, neck and shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breasts
• You have regular indentations from bra straps that support heavy, pendulous breasts
• You have skin irritation beneath the breast crease
• Your breasts hang low and have stretched skin
• Your nipples rest below the breast crease when your breasts are unsupported
• You have enlarged areolas caused by stretched skin

What to expect during your consultation

The success and safety of your breast reduction procedure depends very much on your complete candidness during your consultation. You’ll be asked a number of questions about your health, desires and lifestyle.

Be prepared to discuss:

• Why you want the surgery, your expectations and desired outcome
• Medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments
• Use of current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drugs
• Previous surgeries
• Family history of breast cancer and results of any mammograms or previous biopsies

Your surgeon may also:

• Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
• Examine your breasts, and may take detailed measurements of their size and shape, skin quality, placement of your nipples and areolas
• Take photographs for your medical record
• Discuss your options and recommend a course of treatment
• Discuss likely outcomes of breast reduction and any risks or potential complications
• Discuss the use of anesthesia during your breast reduction

Preparing for surgery

Prior to surgery, you may be asked to:

• Get lab testing or a medical evaluation
• Take certain medications or adjust your current medications
• Get a baseline mammogram before surgery and another one after surgery to help detect any future changes in your breast tissue
• Stop smoking well in advance of surgery
• Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding

Special instructions you receive will cover:

• What to do on the day of surgery
• Post-operative care and follow-up

Your plastic surgeon will also discuss where your procedure will be performed. Breast reduction surgery may be performed in an accredited office-based surgical center, outpatient/ambulatory surgical center, or a hospital.

You’ll need help

If your breast reduction procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery and to stay with you for at least the first night following surgery.

Procedural Steps:

What happens during breast reduction surgery?

Breast reduction is usually performed through incisions on your breasts with surgical removal of the excess fat, glandular tissue and skin.

In some cases, excess fat may be removed through liposuction in conjunction with the excision techniques described below. If breast size is largely due to fatty tissue and excess skin is not a factor, liposuction alone may be used for breast reduction.

The technique used to reduce the size of your breasts will be determined by your individual condition, breast composition, amount of reduction desired, your personal preferences and the surgeon’s advice.

Step 1 – Anesthesia

Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. The choices include intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best choice for you.

Step 2 – The incision

Incision options include:

• A circular pattern around the areola

The incision lines that remain are visible and permanent scars, although usually well concealed beneath a swimsuit or bra.

• A keyhole or racquet-shaped pattern with an incision around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease
• An inverted T or anchor-shaped incision pattern

Step 3 – Removing tissue and repositioning

After the incision is made, the nipple-which remains tethered to its original blood and nerve supply-is then repositioned. The areola is reduced by excising skin at the perimeter, if necessary.

Underlying breast tissue is reduced, lifted and shaped. Occasionally, for extremely large pendulous breasts, the nipple and areola may need to be removed and transplanted to a higher position on the breast (free nipple graft).

Step 4 – Closing the incisions

The incisions are brought together to reshape the now smaller breast. Sutures are layered deep within the breast tissue to create and support the newly shaped breasts; sutures, skin adhesives and/or surgical tape close the skin. Incision lines are permanent, but in most cases will fade and significantly improve over time.

Step 5 – See the results

The results of your breast reduction surgery are immediately visible. Over time, post-surgical swelling will resolve and incision lines will fade. Satisfaction with your new image should continue to grow as you recover.

Important facts about the safety and risks of breast reduction

The decision to have breast reduction surgery is extremely personal and you’ll have to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications are acceptable.

Your plastic surgeon and/or staff will explain in detail the risks associated with surgery. You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedure you will undergo and any risks or potential complications.

The risks include:

• Unfavorable scarring
• Infection
• Changes in nipple or breast sensation, which may be temporary or permanent
• Anesthesia risks
• Bleeding (hematoma)
• Blood clots
• Poor wound healing
• Breast contour and shape irregularities
• Skin discoloration, permanent pigmentation changes, swelling and bruising
• Damage to deeper structures – such as nerves, blood vessels, muscles, and lungs – can occur and may be temporary or permanent
• Breast asymmetry
• Fluid accumulation
• Excessive firmness of the breast
• Potential inability to breastfeed
• Potential loss of skin/tissue of breast where incisions meet each other
• Potential partial or total loss of nipple and areola
• Deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications
• Pain, which may persist
• Allergies to tape, suture materials and glues, blood products, topical preparations or injectable agents.
• Fatty tissue deep in the skin could die (fat necrosis)
• Possibility of revisional surgery

You should know that:

• Breast reduction surgery can interfere with certain diagnostic procedures
• Breast and nipple piercing can cause an infection
• Your ability to breastfeed following reduction mammaplasty may be limited; talk to your doctor if you are planning to nurse a baby
• The procedure can be performed at any age, but is best done when your breasts are fully developed
• Changes in the breasts during pregnancy can alter the outcomes of previous breast reduction surgery, as can significant weight fluctuations

Where will my surgery be performed?

Breast reduction may be performed in your plastic surgeon’s accredited office-based surgical facility, an ambulatory surgical facility or a hospital. Your plastic surgeon and the assisting staff will fully attend to your comfort and safety.

When you go home

If you experience shortness of breath, chest pains, or unusual heart beats, seek medical attention immediately. Should any of these complications occur, you may require hospitalization and additional treatment.

The practice of medicine and surgery is not an exact science. Although good results are expected, there is no guarantee. In some situations, it may not be possible to achieve optimal results with a single surgical procedures and another surgery may be necessary.

Be careful

Following your physician’s instructions is key to the success of your surgery. It is important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, abrasion, or motion during the time of healing. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself.

Be sure to ask questions: It’s very important to address all your questions directly with your plastic surgeon. It is natural to feel some anxiety, whether excitement for the anticipated outcome or preoperative stress. Discuss these feelings with your plastic surgeon.

My recovery

When your procedure is complete, dressings or bandages will be applied to the incisions. An elastic bandage or support bra may be worn to minimize swelling and support the breasts as they heal.

A small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect.

You will be given specific instructions that may include: How to care for your surgical site(s) following surgery, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the risk of infection, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health, and when to follow up with your plastic surgeon. Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period.

• Where will I be taken after my surgery is complete?
• What medication will I be given or prescribed after surgery?
• Will I have dressings/bandages after surgery? When will they be removed?
• Are stitches removed? When?
• When can I resume normal activity and exercise?
• When do I return for follow-up care?

The results will be long-lasting

The results of breast reduction surgery will be long-lasting. Your new breast size should help relieve you from the pain and physical limitations experienced prior to breast reduction.

Your better proportioned figure will likely enhance your self image and boost your self-confidence.

However, over time your breasts can change due to aging, weight fluctuations, hormonal factors and gravity.

How much will breast reduction surgery cost?

Cost is always a consideration in elective surgery. Prices for breast reduction can vary widely. A surgeon’s cost for breast reduction may vary based on his or her experience as well as geographic office location.

Many plastic surgeons offer patient financing plans, so be sure to ask.

Cost may include:

• Surgeon’s fee
• Hospital or surgical facility costs
• Anesthesia fees
• Prescriptions for medication
• Post-surgery garments, and
• Medical tests

Breast reduction surgery is generally considered a reconstructive procedure and may be covered by health insurance when it is performed to relieve medical symptoms.Many insurers define breast reduction surgery as reconstructive based on the amount of tissue that will be removed.However, pre-certification is required for reimbursement or coverage. Each insurance policy varies greatly. Carefully review your policy to determine coverage.

Your satisfaction involves more than a fee

Breast Reduction Surgery Cost Ohio

Breast reduction cost in Columbus, OH, varies in price depending on factors unique to each patient. The cost can range from over $5,000 to $7,500. However, although the final price tag is a crucial consideration for anything you purchase, you should choose a medical professional who is well-trained and has extensive experience with performing the surgery. Board-certified plastic surgeons undergo stringent training requirements and continuing education, and must uphold high ethical standards. 

Dayton Ohio Plastic Surgeons

It’s seldom easy to make the decision to enhance one’s appearance. As cosmetic and reconstructive surgeons, we understand all sides of this decision and give you our very best professional advice and care before and after your surgery. Using the latest medical advances, we strive for a successful outcome and a speedy, healthy recovery. With great artistry and skill, we can improve features that time, heredity, or injury have adversely affected.

Our doctors and nurses are trained in the latest techniques of medical and surgical care. They understand the emotional side of surgery and are here to help you in any way they can. Their medical expertise and dedication to excellent patient care will make your surgical experience as safe and pleasant as possible. Our doctors are all board-certified.

STEVEN P. SCHMIDT, M.D.

Dr. Schmidt received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Southern College in Tennessee and his medical degree from Loma Linda University School of Medicine in California. He completed his plastic surgery training at Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center. Dr. Schmidt is board certified in plastic surgery and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Legacy of Healing is an important part of Dr. Schmidt’s life. Legacy of Healing sends medical mission teams worldwide providing free surgical, medical and dental care as well as safe drinking water to underserved communities. Young people are included as team members, to continue building a legacy that promotes and enhances physical and spiritual health and healing for future generations. Since 2004 Legacy has performed 1147 free operations and seen 7510 village clinic patients. Started by Dr. Schmidt with only six people, it is an inspiring example of what happens when people work together with Christ’s love sharing their time and talents in service to others.