Recent Blog Posts from Rowley Plastic Surgery

Understanding Your Options for a Breast Reduction in Lubbock

Plastic surgery can do so much more than improve your appearance. It can boost confidence and, in some cases, it can even help you feel better physically. Women with oversized breasts often suffer from upper body pain because of the heavy load they constantly carry. If you deal with unpleasant symptoms caused by your large bust, a breast reduction in Lubbock can improve your quality of life because you will no longer limited by the size of your breasts. Of course, you will look better after the surgery, but the benefits go far beyond what you see in the mirror.

The Ideal Candidate

Many women have large breasts, but how can you tell if you should get a breast reduction? Plastic surgery is a personal choice, but if the points below sound familiar, it might be right for you.

  • You experience neck, back, or shoulder pain related to your breasts
  • Bra straps dig into your shoulders
  • The skin under your breasts is prone to rash or irritation
  • The size of your breasts limits your ability to be active
  • Your breasts are asymmetrical or not proportionate to your body
  • You are in good health and have reasonable expectations

Surgery Details

Your breast reduction in Lubbock will be performed at an office operating suite or surgicenter. The procedure lasts about two hours and requires the use of a general anesthetic. Your incisions and scars will depend on the size of the breasts and the location of the areola and nipple.

  • A lollipop incision traces the outer edge of the areola and extends from the bottom of the areola to the bottom of the breast along a vertical line.
  • An anchor incision is used more commonly and uses three incisions for more dramatic results. One is made around the areola, another along the breast crease, and a vertical one connecting the first two.

Dr. Rowley always performs a breast lift along with breast reduction in Lubbock. The nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher spot, making the breasts more youthful and perky. Although you will have some visible scarring, it will fade with time and will not be visible under a bikini.

Women who get breast reductions are some of the happiest plastic surgery patients because of the freedom they enjoy from pain, embarrassment, and lack of mobility. Consider talking to your doctor if you have concerns about:

  • Whether you are a good candidate for breast reduction
  • Providing your insurance with proper documentation about symptoms
  • What surgical option works best for your needs

To find out more about how a breast reduction can help you, call our office today to schedule a no-obligation consultation.

A Breast Reduction in Lubbock Can Help You Get Your Life Back

Sometimes it seems that society has a fixation on large breasts. What many people don’t realize, however, is that having overly large breasts creates a lot of discomfort and can drastically decrease your quality of life, both physically and emotionally for many women. Being “well-endowed” can lead to physical discomfort, unwanted attention, embarrassment, and an inability to do everyday things like exercise or find clothes that fit well. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Experts estimate that close to a million women nationwide experience physical problems due to larger breasts. If you are among them, then a breast reduction in Lubbock may be for you. 

Sometimes it can be difficult to determine whether plastic surgery is the right option. An experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Jane Rowley is your best resource when making plastic surgery decisions, but it is helpful to personally evaluate your situation first. Here are a few things to ask yourself when deciding if a breast reduction is right for you.

  • How is your Posture? As women age, their shoulders tend to slump forward. Shoulders of women with larger breasts can roll even further forward, causing problems with posture that can contribute to back, neck, or shoulder pain. Some may even feel numbness in the body caused by nerve damage from poor posture. If large breasts are affecting your posture, consult a doctor about the benefits of a breast reduction. With this procedure, women can stand a little straighter with a lighter chest. If you have large breasts and often find yourself slumped over, reducing the size of your bust could improve your posture and help you stand taller with increased confidence.
  • How is your Activity? We all know the benefits of exercise and living an active lifestyle, but women with large breasts often find it challenging to get moving. Larger breasts make some exercises difficult, or even painful to carry out. If you feel your breasts get in the way, or make normal activities difficult, consider the liberating effects of breast reduction in Lubbock. Women can move around with more freedom when a heavy chest is lightened.
  • How is your Self Image? Having larger breasts can have adverse effects on your self-esteem and contribute to having a poor body image. If you feel self-conscious about your looks because of larger breasts, talk to your doctor about the advantages of having a breast reduction. Women who go through the procedure often have a better body image and rebuild their self-confidence.

The Struggle is Real

If you have overly large breasts, you know for yourself that these problems are all too real. You have felt the pain of bra straps digging into your shoulders or rashes underneath your breasts. You have felt the discomfort of squeezing your breasts into a swimsuit or sports bra. You have also felt the eyes of strangers on your chest even when your clothing isn’t meant to be revealing. Living in a state of constant pain, discomfort, and self-consciousness is no way to enjoy life. Plastic surgery has allowed many women to experience true relief from the challenges of having large breasts. As you learn more about breast reduction, imagine how the surgery could change your life for the better.  

What is a Breast Reduction?

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, a breast reduction is “a procedure to remove excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin to achieve a breast size more in proportion with your body and to alleviate the discomfort associated with excessively large breasts.” Sometimes your areola (the darker area around your nipple) is also made smaller and may need to be repositioned. In practical terms, according to Dr. Jane Rowley, a breast reduction in Lubbock generally takes approximately two hours under general anesthetic in the office operating suite or a surgical center. Most patients are typically off work for 10 to 14 days, but may require up to three weeks, with six weeks before a return to full activity. The procedure is typically combined with a breast lift, as the nipple must be repositioned to match the new size and shape of the breasts. 

Dr. Jane Rowley has over 20 years of experience in breast reduction surgery. For her approach to breast reduction, watch the video below.

Benefits of a Breast Reduction

Women who have had a breast reduction procedure are among the most highly satisfied of all patients who get plastic surgery. In fact, 98% of women who’ve had their breast size reduced say that their procedure was worth it. Below are some of the leading benefits of breast reduction in Lubbock.  

  • Pain Relief: Pain and discomfort are the most common complaints that women have about heavy breasts. A heavy chest can pull the body forward, causing poor posture and putting a constant strain on the neck, back, and shoulders. Given enough time, these issues can lead to more serious health problems, including migraines, pinched nerves, and numbness. Women who experience these struggles find almost immediate relief by surgically reducing the size of their breasts. Without a burdensome chest, a woman’s health and wellbeing can greatly improve.
  • Increased Mobility: Among the many benefits is an improved ability to move and to be more active. Exercise will be less restricted. Breast reduction can help alleviate back pain and neck aches. Some women have even reported fewer headaches. Even your sleep quality may be improved. This is important, because with better sleep and exercise, your general health and wellbeing will improve. Many women with larger breasts also suffer from painful shoulder indentations from bra straps. This will be alleviated with smaller and lighter breasts.
  • Enhanced Appearance: Women who undergo breast reduction in Lubbock also enjoy aesthetic benefits. It helps balance the symmetry of a woman’s body by bringing her breasts into proportion with the rest of her frame. Many large-breasted women have a hard time finding flattering clothing or swimwear because it often fits awkwardly. A reduced bust size allows these patients to feel more comfortable and confident in their appearance.
  • Emotional Healing: The emotional impact of a breast reduction cannot be overlooked. Women with large breasts sometimes suffer from anxieties and depression caused by insecurities in their self-image. When you no longer feel self conscious about having large breasts, you can feel an emotional freedom as well as a physical freedom. Whether you are wearing a swimming suit or just shopping for clothes that fit, this freedom is emotionally healing. Mental health is an important part of our overall health and quality of life and should not be overlooked or underestimated.

Smaller Breasts, Bigger Smiles

Most plastic surgery procedures take time to reveal their full results. However, breast reduction patients get almost instant gratification as soon as their surgery is complete. The procedure is known for bringing women a tremendous amount of physical and emotional relief. A survey of 73 breast reduction patients revealed just how effective the procedure can be. Most of the survey participants reported improvement in their breast appearance (93%), self-esteem (85%), posture (84%), and activity level (77%). Ninety-five percent felt happy with their decision to have breast reduction plastic surgery. 

Dr. Rowley sees a similar level of satisfaction in her patients who receive breast reduction in Lubbock. She explains, “Overall, breast reduction patients are some of the happiest patients I treat postoperatively. I can honestly not recall a case where the patient did not have almost immediate relief of symptoms related to the size of the breasts… The risk factors are very minimal and patient satisfaction is very high. It’s very rewarding to see the relief patients enjoy.” 

Surgical Methods for Reducing Breast Size

Breast reduction is not a one-size-fits all operation. The procedure can be tailored to your exact needs and goals. Breast anatomy, size, and the amount of excess tissue all play into the decision about which technique to use. Your plastic surgeon will guide you as to which surgical method would best achieve the outcome you desire. The most common techniques for reducing the size of large breasts include:

  • Anchor Incision: The anchor, or inverted T incision is the most common surgical technique for breast reduction patients. Incisions are made around the areola, vertically from the areola to the base of the breast, and then horizontally in the breast crease. This allows for the maximum amount of breast tissue and skin to be removed. Patients’ breasts are then reshaped and lifted to create a firmer, smaller bust line. 
  • Vertical Incision: Also called a lollipop incision, this method is for procedures that remove moderate amounts of breast tissue. Patients with mildly large and sagging breasts are good candidates for this approach. Excess skin and tissue are removed through incisions around the areola and vertically down the bottom half of the breasts. 
  • Liposuction: If a patient has a minimal amount of sagging and excess fatty tissue, liposuction may be the best option. This method leaves no scars, and the recovery period is significantly shorter than it is after a traditional surgery for breast reduction in Lubbock. You may be a candidate for breast liposuction if you have good skin elasticity and want a slight decrease in size. 

Insurance Coverage for Breast Reduction 

One of the most common questions about breast reduction is whether insurance companies will pay for it. Because larger breasts can create legitimately difficult life experiences, breast reduction surgery may be covered by your insurance. Every company and every plan has different requirements for breast reduction coverage, so be sure to contact a representative directly to fully understand your options. Most insurance companies will need information such as the amount of breast tissue to be removed, history of health problems related to the breasts, and even a photo showing the size of the breasts. Your doctor can help you gather the documentation and medical evidence you need so you will get the best chance at having your procedure approved. So, cost may not even have to be a factor when deciding whether you can move forward with breast reduction in Lubbock.

Life After Breast Reduction Surgery

After learning about the ways that breast reduction could change their lives for the better, many women are anxious to take the next steps toward smaller breasts. But, it is important to remember that breast reduction is major surgery, and the road to recovery will take some time. Most patients will need to take 2-3 weeks off work. Any strenuous activity or heavy lifting is off limits until your doctor gives the green light, usually around 6 weeks. Some pain and discomfort are normal after breast reduction surgery, but never hesitate to contact your doctor with any questions or concerns. Be sure to follow all of your surgeon’s post-operative instructions to avoid potential complications. 

Once your body has healed from surgery, you can begin to enjoy all of the newfound freedoms that come with your new look. Back, neck, and shoulder pain should improve, movement and exercise will be less restricted, clothing will look more flattering, and best of all, your confidence will soar. With such a dramatic improvement in their overall quality of life, many breast reduction patients wish they had sought out the procedure sooner. 

Where to Get a Breast Reduction in Lubbock

The benefits of a breast reduction procedure include less back pain, greater mobility, and increased self-confidence. Women considering a breast reduction in Lubbock also have the added benefit of having access to a world-class plastic surgeon, Dr. Jane Rowley. As one of the top plastic surgeons in Lubbock and Texas itself, Dr. Rowley has considerable experience in carrying out successful breast reductions. Dr. Rowley’s patients always get honest, straightforward answers to their plastic surgery questions and concerns.  

Plastic surgery is a personal decision and can be a life changing experience. Don’t let the size of your breasts get in the way of the life you want to live. If you are experiencing difficulties because of overly large breasts, contact Rowley Plastic Surgery and learn about the options that are available to you. Call today to schedule your no-obligation consultation.

What You Could Gain From a Breast Lift in Lubbock

When people think about plastic surgery for breast enhancement, the most common thing they think of is breast augmentation. This is understandable, as breast enlargements are one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures in the U.S. If you are happy with the amount of natural breast tissue that you have, but are less happy with the shape, asymmetry, or overall lack of perkiness, a better option may be a mastopexy, or a breast lift. In Lubbock, Dr. Jane Rowley offers this plastic surgery procedure to women looking for a breast lift to restore their youthful shape in a way that is still all you.

Changing Trends

While breast implants are popular, breast lift procedures are also on the rise. Since 2000, breast lifts have seen an increase in frequency of 108%, outpacing the increase in breast implants by more than double. This may reflect the parallel trend that women getting breast implants are choosing smaller, more natural-looking sizes . The numbers indicate that more women are generally satisfied with their breast size, and are simply looking to restore the perky fullness that they may have enjoyed when they were younger. Today’s woman wants to achieve her ideal image in a way that looks and feels natural, and a breast lift can be the perfect way to do that.   

What is a Breast Lift?

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, a mastopexy is a procedure that “raises the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to reshape and support the new breast contour.” In other words, your plastic surgeon will lift your breasts by getting rid of the extra weight that makes them sag. As part of the procedure, the areola and nipple are also repositioned. It’s typically an outpatient surgery, taking about 90 minutes to two hours, and it is performed under general anesthetic. A breast lift can be performed in an office operating suite, surgical center, or hospital. The procedure transforms a droopy, sagging chest into breasts that look perky and rejuvenated. Watch the video below for Dr. Rowley’s thorough explanation of the procedure.

Why Consider a Breast Lift in Lubbock?

As women age, breasts will naturally begin to change, losing their youthful look and feel. These changes can be hard to accept, especially when there is nothing you can do on your own to stop them. Breasts that have lost shape and volume can make it challenging to find flattering clothes and bras that fit well; but more importantly, they can damage your self-esteem and confidence. If the appearance of your breasts bothers you, plastic surgery may be the best way to regain a positive body image. Unwanted changes in the breasts are often caused by:

  • Pregnancy
  • Breastfeeding
  • Weight loss
  • Aging
  • Genetics
  • Gravity

While some of these factors only affect some women, no one is exempt from all of them. Aging and gravity take their toll on each and every one of us. And the fact is that your breasts can’t keep their youthful appearance forever, no matter how much you exercise and eat right. Feeling confident in their appearance is something all women deserve, and a breast lift can help by revitalizing your breasts and lifting your spirits.  

Breast Lift Candidates

If you feel unhappy with the way your breasts look, you’re not alone. Many women share the same dissatisfaction that comes with watching their breasts gradually change, knowing they cannot do anything about it. Breast lift candidates should be in good physical health, have realistic expectations for the procedure, and should not smoke. Women who meet these criteria and have the following aesthetic concerns may be potential candidates for a breast lift in Lubbock:

  • Stretched skin and enlarged areolas
  • Droopy or saggy breasts
  • Breasts with a flatter, elongated shape
  • Pronounced stretch marks
  • Nipples that point down 
  • Nipples that fall below the breast crease when unsupported
  • Asymmetry between breasts

Not every woman who is unhappy with her breasts will be a candidate for a breast lift. For example, if you may become pregnant or wish to breastfeed in the future, it would be best to wait until after those events to pursue breast surgery. Talk to your doctor to find out if now is the right time for your breast lift plastic surgery.  

Still wondering whether a breast lift is right for you? Watch this video for more information on mastopexy and tips on how to know if you are a good candidate.

Remember, a breast lift will not change the overall size of your breasts, but It does enhance their shape and projection. If you want larger or smaller breasts, then you should consider a breast augmentation or breast reduction. Each of these procedures can be done in addition to a breast lift for more dramatic results. One of the great things about cosmetic surgery is that you are in charge, and you get to choose what you want for your body. A qualified, experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Jane Rowley can help you decide which type of procedure will help you meet your cosmetic goals. 

Some Things You Should Know

If you want to have breast implants in conjunction with your lift, it is important to be careful when you choose your implant size. Implants that are too large will add weight to breasts that may already struggle to support existing tissue and skin, causing them to sag even more. However, with the right sized implant and an experienced plastic surgeon, you can have the best of both worlds by lifting your breasts and adding volume at the same time.   

On the other hand, many women who wish to decrease the size of their breasts would also benefit from a breast lift. In fact, Dr. Rowley always includes a lift as part of the breast reduction procedure she performs on her patients. She advises these patients to have realistic expectations for their surgical outcome. Dr. Rowley explains:

“Unfortunately, many patients who come in seeking a mastopexy expect their breasts will look as if they never had big breasts to start with. In other words, they hope to look like a small-breasted person who has had implants. However, once you have had breast tissue followed by a volume loss, it is very difficult to make breasts look like someone who was never big-breasted to start with. It is very important that patients have a realistic view of this procedure.”

Dr. Rowley has more than 20 years of experience with mastopexy, and is always candid with her patients about what they can achieve with plastic surgery. She encourages women to be open about their concerns and to communicate their breast lift goals clearly. If you have large breasts prior to your breast lift, talk to your surgeon about what a realistic outcome might look like for you. 

What Do You Need to Do Before You Get a Mastopexy?

There are a few main things to consider when answering this question. First, make sure you are physically prepared for your procedure. If you smoke, you simply must quit. If you cannot quit permanently, then you must at least abstain for several weeks to prepare for the surgery and for several weeks after to aid in your recovery. Smoking reduces the amount of oxygen in your blood, which reduces your body’s ability to fight off infection. Nicotine also directly impacts the blood flow to the tissues. In addition, you should be able to maintain a stable weight for some time. For more information about preparing for a breast lift in Lubbock, see our post about “Making the Most of Your Lubbock Plastic Surgery Experience.” 

Second, closely consult with your plastic surgeon. During your consultation appointments, you have the opportunity to discuss your goals for this procedure: why you are considering the surgery, and what you hope to get out of it. Do your best to convey your thoughts clearly, because effective communication is key to getting the results you want. Your plastic surgeon can help you develop an accurate expectation of what the outcome of the procedure will likely be. Everyone wants to look like a supermodel, but everyone’s body is different. The same procedure, and even the same size and type of implant will look different on every patient’s body. Your surgeon will also want to have a detailed discussion about your medical history to reduce the possibility of complications. You will also have the opportunity to ask any questions you have. If you’re not sure what to ask, here is a helpful list of questions you should consider.

Third, your plastic surgeon will likely request a full lab test to make sure there are no conditions you are not aware of before the procedure. Also, it is recommended that you get a baseline mammogram that will be compared to a second one after your procedure, to see if there is anything your doctor should be aware of in your breast tissue.

Preparing for Mastopexy

A breast lift is major surgery, which means you will need to plan ahead so your recovery can go as smoothly as possible. Being underprepared can make the healing process longer and more difficult. Below are some ideas you might find helpful when making your mastopexy recovery plans.

  • Find someone to drive you to and from your surgery, and to stay with you for at least the first night 
  • Arrange for child care and pet care for at least the first week 
  • Fill post-surgical prescriptions, including pain medication 
  • Schedule a baseline mammogram for your doctor’s reference
  • Adjust your medications according to your doctor’s instructions
  • Stop the use of all products containing nicotine

Breast Lift Recovery

Taking care of yourself during the recovery period is one key to getting the results you want from your breast lift in Lubbock. By following your plastic surgeon’s instructions carefully, you will have the best chance at a successful recovery. Be patient with your body as it works to heal. If you jump back into your normal routine too quickly, your health and your results could suffer. Take it slow, and don’t hesitate to let others help you during this time. Although everyone’s healing timeline is unique, most patients can expect to take about 5 to 10 days off work and 4 to 6 weeks for a complete recovery and return to full activity.

Mastopexy and Scarring

All surgeries leave scars, and breast lifts are no different. Your plastic surgeon will need to make incisions on your breasts to achieve the desired tightening and lifting. An incision made around the areola can minimize the amount of scarring, but some patients may have more scarring depending on how much skin needs to be removed. With proper care, scars will fade and diminish over time. And, your breast lift scars can be easily hidden beneath a swimsuit. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about plastic surgery scars.  

Women with Breast Lifts are Very Happy with their Results

According to RealSelf, 95% of women say that their mastopexy was “worth it.” In a sample review of the procedure, one woman wrote

“I am a 20-year-old who underwent a breast lift procedure due to a lot of sagginess that inhibited me from feeling comfortable and also hindering what I could and could not wear. After losing weight from my chest after having a large bust, they began to droop. My areola area was very large and my right breast was larger and hung lower than my left breast. . . It has now only been two weeks’ post operation and I am comfortable to move around, pain free, and my breasts look 100 times better than what they did, which I am so grateful for.”

A breast lift in Lubbock can have a similar positive effect on your self-image and give you more confidence when your breasts are given back their youthful look. Dr. Jane Rowley and her staff are committed to helping you become your best self by giving you the body you can truly appreciate and enjoy. Call us today for a no-obligation consultation.