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The surgery
Techniques for breast reduction vary, but the most common procedure involves
an anchor-shaped incision that circles the areola, extends downward, and
follows the natural curve of the crease beneath the breast. The surgeon
removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin, and moves the nipple and
areola into their new position. He or she then brings the skin from both
sides of the breast down and around the areola, shaping the new contour
of the breast. Liposuction may be used to remove excess fat from the armpit
area.

Incisions outline the area of skin,
breast tissue, and fat to be removed
and the new position for the nipple.
In most cases, the nipples remain attached to their blood vessels and nerves.
However, if the breasts are very large or pendulous, the nipples and areolas
may have to be completely removed and grafted into a higher position. (This
will result in a loss of sensation in the nipple and areolar tissue.)

Skin formerly located above the nipple
is brought down and together to reshape
the breast. Sutures close the incisions,
giving the breast its new contour.
Stitches are usually located around the areola, in a vertical line extending
downward, and along the lower crease of the breast. In some cases, techniques
can be used that eliminate the vertical part of the scar. And occasionally,
when only fat needs to be removed, liposuction alone can be used to reduce
breast size, leaving minimal scars.

Scars around the areola, below it, and
in the crease under the breast are
permanent, but can be easily concealed
by clothing.
Continue reading about breast reduction
Back to top of breast reduction section
Breast Reduction Patient Information 
Highlights: Preparing for Surgery
Pre-operative Instructions
Post-Operative Care
Activity Restrictions
Recovery Time
Resuming Normal Activities
Pre-operative Instructions 
Post-operative Instructions 
FAQs on Recovery From Plastic Surgery
Breast Reduction Illustrations
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