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DONALD J. CAPUANO, M.D.
Plastic Surgeon

You are interested in information regarding the surgical procedure for reduction of the breasts known as reduction mammoplasty.

This operation involves reduction of the amount of breast tissue. The usual reasons for this are discomfort and/or pain in the shoulders and back, skin problems, difficulty working and sleeping because of breast size, etc. Any improvement in the cosmetic appearance is usually a secondary consideration.

Currently most health insurances, including HMO plans are covering reduction mammoplasty in full when it is medically necessary. Some insurance companies require a second opinion from another Plastic Surgeon before the procedure can be authorized. Others request documentation of alternate treatments such as chiropractic or physical therapy. We recommend you contact your insurance carrier directly to find out what their particular policy is regarding reduction mammoplasty.

You will have scars in the area of the surgery. These scars are usually placed around the nipples, and in the area around the fold of the breasts.

Please note: It is very important that you realize that should you gain or lose weight following your surgery, this may very well affect the size and shape of your breasts. This can also include changing the position of the nipples. Your weight loss or gain following surgery is something over which the Doctor obviously has no control, but which can affect your eventual result.

The amount of breast tissue and skin to be removed will be discussed with you when you are seen in the office. For insurance coverage, usually 1,000 grams of tissue removal is required.  The Doctor will examine you and talk to you about what that amount entails.  We ask that you bring in a bra of the cup size you may want, as this gives us an idea of how large or small you may wish to be after surgery..

Some of our patients are interested in almost complete breast reduction, including removal of most breast tissue. This can be because of their lifestyle, athletic interests, body image, etc. To reduce the breasts this completely involves a special technique. It is important that you discuss this with the Doctor if you desire complete reduction.

Although the discovery of breast cancer during the surgical procedure is QUITE RARE, it has occurred. If during your operation this should occur, Dr. Capuano will be in a position wherein he must use his best judgment. There are many factors involved in deciding what to do if a cancer is discovered. Again, while this is extremely rare it is mentioned for the sake of completeness.

This surgery may involve an overnight stay at the hospital, although many patients are able to go home the day of surgery. This depends on many factors, and will be discussed with you. There will be stitches and/or metal staples in place. A bulky gauze bandage will be applied to the chest area along with ace bandages. There may be tubes used for drainage, which are removed a day or two after surgery. While the initial dressing is on it must be kept clean and dry. You will be given instructions regarding wound care, showers and activity.

You will be given prescriptions for medications for swelling, infection and discomfort. Usually patients do not have a great deal of pain after surgery, however this depends upon your activity level. The more you do soon after surgery, the more discomfort you may have. It will be important to follow instructions regarding activity level and gradually increase this over time.

You will be seen in follow up periodically after surgery, and the Doctor and office staff will inform you of this.

Breast reduction surgery has been extremely beneficial for women with complaints of back, neck, shoulder and breast pain for relief of symptoms. If you have any questions regarding this information, call the office at 585-225-0680.

INFORMATION SHEET FOR REDUCTION MAMMOPLASTY

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