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Breast Lift & Breast Reduction in Salt Lake City, UT

Is a Breast Lift or Breast Reduction Right for Me?

Breast lift and breast reduction are transformative cosmetic procedures that address concerns related to breast size, shape, and position. At Envision Plastic Surgery in Salt Lake City, UT, we specialize in these procedures, offering personalized solutions to enhance comfort and aesthetic appeal for our patients.

What is a Breast Lift?

A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to elevate and reshape sagging breasts. Over time, factors such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and gravity can cause the breasts to lose their youthful shape and firmness. A breast lift addresses these issues by removing excess skin, tightening the surrounding tissue, and repositioning the nipple and areola to a more youthful height. This procedure can rejuvenate the breast profile, making it look more uplifted and firmer.

What is a Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is performed to reduce the size and weight of large, heavy breasts. This procedure involves removing excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with the body and to alleviate discomfort associated with overly large breasts. Women who undergo breast reduction surgery often seek relief from physical symptoms like back and neck pain, skin irritation, and posture problems.

What Breast Lift and Breast Reduction Techniques are Used?

There are numerous techniques available for both breast lift and breast reduction. The techniques used for your procedure will depend on your cosmetic goals and Dr. Dunkley’s recommendations.

Breast Lift Techniques

  • Anchor Lift: Ideal for significant sagging. Incisions are made around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the breast crease.
  • Lollipop Lift: Suitable for moderate sagging. Incisions are made around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease.
  • Periareolar Lift: Best for mild sagging. A circular incision is made around the areola.

These techniques vary in their incision patterns based on the degree of lifting required. Excess skin is removed, and the nipple and areola are repositioned higher on the breast.

Breast Reduction Techniques

  • Inverted T or Anchor Incision: Common for extensive reduction. Involves an anchor-shaped incision around the areola, vertically down and along the breast crease.
  • Vertical Incision: Best for moderate reduction. Involves incisions around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease.
  • Scarless Breast Reduction: Uses liposuction to remove breast fat with minimal scarring but does not address excess skin.

During breast reduction, fat, glandular tissue, and skin are removed, and the breasts are reshaped for a smaller, lighter appearance, often combined with a lift.

What are the Benefits of a Breast Lift?

  • Restores a youthful breast shape
  • Improves nipple position
  • Enhances contour
  • Increases comfort
  • Boosts confidence

Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Lift and Breast Reduction Procedures?

The best way to determine your candidacy for breast lift or breast reduction procedures is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Dunkley. During your one-on-one consultation, Dr. Dunkley will evaluate your cosmetic goals and help you determine whether these techniques are a good fit for you. In addition to being in good health and having realistic expectations for the treatment, you might be a good candidate for these surgeries if you are concerned with:

  • Sagging breasts
  • Nipple position
  • Oversized breasts
  • Pain or discomfort due to breast size

What are the Benefits of a Breast Reduction?

  • Relieves physical discomfort
  • Improves posture
  • Minimizes skin problems
  • Expands clothing options
  • Enhances comfort during physical activity
  • Emotional relief

How Can I Prepare For Breast Lift or Breast Reduction Surgeries?

To prepare for breast surgery, maintain a stable weight and a healthy diet. You should stop smoking at least a few weeks before the procedure, as smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of complications. Certain prescription and over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen should be stopped. For patients with multiple medical conditions or heart conditions, you may need clearance from your regular doctor prior to surgery. You should also make arrangements for someone to take you to and from your surgery. During your consultation, Dr. Dunkley will provide you with a complete list of pre-operative instructions.

How Much Does Breast Lift & Breast Reduction Surgery Cost?

At Envision Cosmetic Surgery, each breast surgery procedure is personalized to a patient’s unique treatment goals. The cost of your procedure will vary depending on how we customize your treatment, which includes the specific techniques used. During your consultation, we can explain all of the costs associated with your breast surgery procedure so you know exactly what to expect before starting treatment. Keep in mind that some breast surgeries may be eligible for insurance coverage. To help make this and other treatments more affordable, we have many financing options available.

Why Choose Dr. Dunkley?

Dr. Dunkley, a board-certified plastic and cosmetic surgeon in Salt Lake City, UT, is an excellent choice for breast surgery. With extensive training and experience, Dr. Dunkley possesses the expertise needed to deliver exceptional results. His qualifications include being board-certified in Facial Plastic Surgery & Otolaryngology by the American Osteopathic Association Specialty Certifying Board, and being fellowship trained in cosmetic surgery. Dr. Dunkley's dedication to his patients' comfort, education, and outcome is evident, making him a trustworthy choice for those seeking a surgeon they can rely on. Read more about Dr. Dunkley or explore his reviews.

Would you like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Dunkley? If so, contact us today. You can discuss your goals with Dr. Dunkley to determine the treatment options that are best for you. Envision Plastic Surgery welcomes patients from Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho and the other nearby areas of Salt Lake City, UT. For out of town patients, an online consultation is possible

Call 801-203-4341 Today
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How to Get a Breast Reduction Covered by Insurance

Breast reduction surgery can become eligible for insurance coverage when it is deemed medically necessary, rather than purely cosmetic. Insurance companies typically have specific criteria that must be met for them to consider breast reduction a medically necessary procedure. Here are common factors that insurance companies consider for coverage eligibility:

  • Documented physical symptoms
  • Evidence of non-surgical treatments
  • Size of reduction
  • Medical documentation
  • Health and weight stability
  • Impact on daily life
  • Pre-authorization

It's important to thoroughly review your insurance policy and speak with your insurance provider to understand the specific criteria and documentation required. Each insurance company may have different requirements for coverage.

What is Breast Surgery Like?

What Can I Expect On The Day Of My Breast Surgery?

On the day of your breast surgery, your appointment will start with meeting the surgical team. Dr. Dunkley will speak to you and place marks on the treatment areas to guide surgery. Once in the operating suite, you are given anesthesia and will go to sleep. This ensures you will be safe and comfortable for the duration of the surgery, with no pain or memory of the surgical process. You will awake in the recovery room and stay until the anesthesia has worn off.

What Happens During Breast Surgery?

During breast lift and breast reduction procedures, incisions will be made that allow Dr. Dunkley to access the breast tissue and reshape or resize the breasts as needed. The exact techniques will vary depending on the procedure being performed, but we aim to use the techniques that will produce the best shape with the least possible scarring.

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Breast Reduction

During a breast reduction procedure, excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are removed to reduce the size of the breasts. The surgery typically starts with incisions made around the areola and down the breast, following a keyhole or anchor-shaped pattern, depending on the extent of reduction needed. Through these incisions, Dr. Dunkley carefully removes a predetermined amount of breast tissue and fat, and may employ liposuction for more precise fat removal. The nipple and areola are then repositioned to a more natural height appropriate to the new breast size. In some cases, the areola size may be reduced to better fit the new breast dimensions. The incisions are then closed with dissolvable stitches.

Breast Lift

During a breast lift, your breast tissues will be reshaped and lifted. The tissue is folded to move the nipple up higher on the breast, and the tissue underneath the breast is brought together, leaving a vertical incision line. The nipple and areolas will be repositioned and resized. To complete the procedure, excess skin will be removed to reshape the breasts into a new, more desirable contour. Careful suturing techniques help minimize scarring. The surgical wounds will be closed with dissolvable stitches.

Can I Go Home After Breast Surgery?

Breast surgery is typically an outpatient procedure, allowing most patients to go home the same day. It's crucial to arrange for someone to drive you home and assist you for a few days after the surgery.

What is Breast Surgery Recovery Like?

How Long is Recovery from Breast Reduction or Breast Lift Surgery?

The recovery period following breast reduction or breast lift surgery typically spans several weeks, with most patients experiencing significant improvement in symptoms within the first few weeks. Initially, you can expect soreness, swelling, and bruising, which gradually subsides. Most patients can return to non-strenuous work within 2-3 weeks, but full recovery, including the resolution of most swelling and the complete healing of incisions, can take several months. It's important to follow Dr. Dunkley's post-operative instructions closely, as this will influence the speed and quality of your recovery.

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What is the Breast Surgery Recovery Timeline?

Week 1

After breast surgery, whether it's a lift or reduction, expect pain, swelling, and bruising around the surgical areas. You’ll need to wear a surgical bra or compression garment as recommended by Dr. Dunkley. This helps support your breasts and reduces swelling. Rest is essential during this period. Avoid any physical exertion, including work and exercise. Focus on recovery and follow Dr. Dunkley’s instructions regarding care and medications.

Weeks 2-3

Swelling and bruising will start to diminish but may still be present. You may notice gradual improvements in discomfort. Many patients feel capable of returning to non-strenuous work and can engage in light activities. However, it's crucial to continue avoiding any heavy lifting or vigorous exercise. A follow-up appointment with Dr. Dunkley is usually scheduled during this period to check on your healing progress.

Weeks 4-6

You can gradually resume more activities, including light exercises, as per Dr. Dunkley’s advice. However, continue to be cautious with movements that may strain the chest area. The majority of the immediate postoperative effects should have reduced significantly. Your breasts will start settling into their new shape. You may still be advised to wear the surgical bra or compression garment to support the healing tissues.

Months 2-3

By this time, most of the swelling should have subsided, giving you a clearer idea of the final outcome of your surgery. You should be able to return to most, if not all, of your normal daily activities and exercises, with Dr. Dunkley’s approval.

Beyond 3 Months

Full recovery can take several months, with scars continuing to fade and mature over time.

Post Surgery Frequently Asked Questions

How Should I Sleep After a Breast Lift or Breast Reduction?

After a breast lift or breast reduction, it's recommended to sleep on your back in an elevated position for the first few weeks. This position helps reduce swelling and prevents undue pressure on the breasts, aiding in the healing process. Sleeping on your side or stomach should be avoided during the early recovery phase, as these positions can put stress on the surgical sites and potentially alter the results of the surgery.

How Long After Breast Reduction Will I Know My Size?

Post-breast reduction, it can take several months for swelling to fully subside and for your breasts to settle into their new shape. Typically, you can expect to have a good idea of your final breast size around 3 months after surgery. However, minor changes and settling can continue beyond this period. On average, most patients lose around one to two cup sizes following their breast reduction surgery.

When Can I Wear a Regular Bra After a Breast Lift or Breast Reduction?

Immediately following your breast surgery, you will be advised to wear a surgical bra or a compression garment. This is typically worn for several weeks to provide support and facilitate healing. Transitioning to a regular bra usually occurs around 6-8 weeks post-surgery, but this can vary based on individual healing progress and your surgeon's recommendations. Underwire bras should be avoided until Dr. Dunkley confirms it's safe to use them, as they can irritate incision sites.

Can I Breastfeed After a Breast Reduction or Breast Lift?

The ability to breastfeed after a breast lift or reduction can be affected depending on the specific techniques used during the surgery. In a breast reduction, if there is significant alteration to the milk ducts or nerves, it can impact breastfeeding capabilities. However, some surgical techniques aim to preserve these structures, so discussing your desire to breastfeed with Dr. Dunkley before the procedure is crucial. A breast lift is less likely to interfere with breastfeeding compared to a reduction, especially if the nipple is not detached during the procedure, but again, it depends on the extent of the surgery and the techniques employed.

    Contact us today to schedule your consultation for breast surgery at Envision Plastic Surgery. You can discuss your goals with Dr. Dunkley so that you can plan out the perfect treatment approach. We serve the residents of Salt Lake City, Utah, and the nearby areas of Wyoming, Idaho and Colorado.