Bigger is not always better when it comes to breast size. Believe it not, for some women it can almost be a curse. Take Hollywood actress Ariel Winter, for example.
The “Modern Family” star underwent breast reduction at just 17-years-old. Originally a 32F, the operation took her down to a 34D, and she couldn’t be happier. In fact, she says she now feels like a “new person,” and the weight of her breasts no longer cause her pain.
“It started to hurt so bad that I couldn’t take the pain,” she said. “My neck was hurting so bad, and I actually had some problems with my spine. I had been discussing my chest with doctors for many years, but when I finally said, ‘I’m thinking of doing this,’ he said, ‘Your back is going to thank you so much.’”
Her unusually large bust size also made her the target of “social media trolls” and cyberbullies. It was just another reason that motivated her to get the surgery. She was sick of her chest becoming the center of attention and not her talent.
Breast reduction surgery offered an effective solution for the young actress to cope with her problems. It 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. In a nutshell, the end results lead to breasts that are smaller, firmer and more proportional to the rest of the body.
Dr. Bernard Beldholm has performed hundreds of these procedures, in turn, giving patients a new lease on life. If you are looking into having this life-changing procedure, you likely have lots of questions. Below, we list ten facts about breast reduction you should know before having it performed.
Nr 1: Liposuction is used to help shape the chest wall
Dr. Beldholm uses this technique to get rid of a patient’s lateral breast rolls on the side of the chest area. In doing so, this will result in a more even and perkier chest area. The removed fat tissue will also lead to a significant reduction in pain on the patient’s back, neck and shoulders.
Nr 2: There will be some minor scarring
Unfortunately, there’s no way to avoid this since your surgeon will have to make incisions during the operation. The scar will be around the areola, vertically down and around the bottom of the breasts. The good news is the scar will fade over time, becoming hardly noticeable.
Nr 3: Patients are able to see the results before the actual surgery
At his facility, he uses a special software program called Crisalix. It provides a web-based 3D simulation, using photos of your own body to provide a realistic indication of the final outcome.
Nr 4: Insurance will cover some of the procedure cost
Because this procedure is often deemed medically necessary, it can be given an item number. Therefore, private insurance rebates will apply, assisting with the overall costs. However, the total price you pay even with insurance will depend on the specifics of the surgery. This is because we cater to each operation to the patient.
Nr 5: Patients are able to walk and shower the first day following surgery
Usually, all bruising and swelling settle about two weeks after surgery. Most patients are generally able to go back to an active lifestyle which can include exercise. During the recovery process, patients will have access to our 24/7 emergency number in the rare case any questions or issues arise.
Nr 6: LED lighting is used to encourage faster healing
For most patients, they lead very active lifestyles. After the surgery, we know it’s important that you are able to get back to normal life as quickly as possible. That’s why after the procedure, we incorporate LED light therapy. Research has shown that it speeds healing as well as helps to relieve pain.
Nr 7: As with any big surgery, there are some risks involved
The decision to have breast reduction surgery is no doubt a very personal one. Prior to having the surgery, Dr. Beldholm will explain to you the potential complications involved. Although rare, some of the risks include: breast asymmetry, inability to breastfeed, persistent pain, poor wound healing, infection, blood clots, nerve damage, etc.
Nr 8: Not everyone will be a candidate
If you are seriously considering this procedure, you’ll be a good candidate if you are physically healthy, don’t smoke, have realistic expectations, have breasts that limit your physical ability and suffer from neck and back pain.
Nr 9: The final approach to surgery varies with every patient
As we mentioned, earlier no two patients are alike. That’s why no two breast reduction surgeries are ever alike. The final approach surgery will depend on the patient’s nipple position, size of their breast, potential asymmetry, etc. Following surgery, patients can expect drains to be used overnight.
Nr 10: Before surgery, it’s important to prepare for your road to recovery
Prior to having breast reduction surgery, you’ll want to get your home ready for the coming weeks of recovery. Make sure you have plenty of these things on hand: lots of ice, clean washcloths, and towels; loose, comfortable clothing—especially shirts; special ointments or creams recommended by your surgeon. After surgery, Dr. Beldholm will also prescribe his patients with oral medication to ease the pain from the surgery.
Interested in learning more?
Helping our patients achieve the look they’ve always wanted is Dr. Beldholm’s number one goal. Dr. Beldholm is passionate about cosmetic surgery and has made it his full-time focus for more than a decade now. He is always at the forefront of cosmetic surgery and is constantly dedicated to training, teaching and developing his skills.