Our Summary

This research paper discusses a new surgical technique called “reductive augmentation” for breast reduction that also helps maintain fullness and roundness in the upper part of the breast. This technique is particularly useful for correcting uneven breast size and for revising a condition called pseudoptosis, a type of drooping that can happen after breast augmentation surgery.

The procedure involves first augmenting (increasing) the breast size, followed by a special type of reduction surgery. The amount of breast tissue removed is often more than in typical reduction surgeries.

The paper reports on 35 patients who underwent this procedure. Some of them were having their first such surgery, while others were having revisions to previous surgeries. The follow-up period averaged 26 months.

The authors conclude that reductive augmentation is a successful, single-stage method for achieving a rounder breast shape with fullness in the upper area, whether it’s a patient’s first breast reduction or a revision surgery. This method can also help patients with significant breast asymmetry.

FAQs

  1. What is the new surgical technique “reductive augmentation” used for?
  2. How does the reductive augmentation procedure work?
  3. What were the results of the study on patients who underwent the reductive augmentation procedure?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering breast augmentation that it’s important to carefully consider their desired outcome and communicate their goals clearly with their surgeon. It’s also important to have realistic expectations about the results and the recovery process. Patients should follow all post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and the best possible outcome. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are also important to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for breast augmentation include those who:

  1. Desire to increase the size of their breasts for cosmetic reasons.
  2. Have naturally small breasts and wish to enhance their appearance.
  3. Have lost breast volume due to weight loss, pregnancy, or aging.
  4. Have asymmetrical breasts and wish to achieve a more balanced appearance.
  5. Have undergone mastectomy and wish to reconstruct their breasts.
  6. Have breast ptosis (sagging) and wish to achieve a fuller, more lifted appearance.
  7. Have experienced changes in breast size and shape due to hormonal fluctuations.

It is important for patients considering breast augmentation to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss their goals, expectations, and any potential risks associated with the procedure. Additionally, patients should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery.

Timeline

Before the surgery:

  1. Consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss goals, expectations, and options for breast augmentation.
  2. Pre-operative tests and evaluations to ensure the patient is healthy and a good candidate for surgery.
  3. Choosing the type and size of breast implants to be used.
  4. Planning the surgical technique and incision placement.
  5. Preparing for the surgery by following guidelines for medication, diet, and lifestyle changes.

During the surgery:

  1. Anesthesia is administered to the patient.
  2. The surgeon makes incisions and inserts breast implants either under the breast tissue or under the chest muscle.
  3. The implants are adjusted to achieve the desired size and shape.
  4. Incisions are closed and the patient is monitored as they wake up from anesthesia.

After the surgery:

  1. Recovery period, including pain management and monitoring for complications.
  2. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  3. Breast massage and exercises to promote implant settling and prevent capsular contracture.
  4. Final results become more apparent as swelling goes down and scars fade over time.
  5. Enjoying the benefits of increased breast size and improved confidence.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about breast augmentation, particularly reductive augmentation, may include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with reductive augmentation surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period for this procedure, and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort?
  3. Will I need to have any additional surgeries or follow-up procedures in the future?
  4. How will my breast shape and size be affected by the reductive augmentation technique?
  5. What type of scarring can I expect after the surgery, and are there any techniques to minimize scarring?
  6. How will my nipple placement and sensation be affected by this procedure?
  7. Are there any specific post-operative care instructions I should follow to ensure successful results?
  8. What are the long-term implications of reductive augmentation on my overall breast health and appearance?
  9. Can you provide before and after photos of previous patients who have undergone reductive augmentation surgery?
  10. What is your experience and success rate with performing reductive augmentation procedures?

Reference

Authors: Chasan PE. Journal: Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2018 Jun;42(3):662-671. doi: 10.1007/s00266-017-1010-0. Epub 2017 Nov 9. PMID: 29124375