Breast Reduction

In breast reconstruction, Dr. Aguilar will make an anchor-shaped incision that circles the areola, extends downward, and follows the natural curve of the crease beneath the breasts. "I remove excess tissue, fat, and skin, and reposition the nipple and areola," he explains. "Skin from both sides of the breast is brought down and around the areola, for the new contour."

DOES THIS AFFECT BLOOD VESSELS AND NERVES?
Usually, the nipples remain attached to their blood vessels and nerves. In the case of breasts that are very large or pendulous, however, Dr. Aguilar will have to remove the nipples and areola and graft them into a higher position. This, of course, results in loss of sensation.

WHERE ARE THE STITCHES LOCATED?
Dr. Aguilar makes stitches around the areola in a line extending down and along the lower crease of each breast. If you need fat removed exclusively, he can do liposuction to reduce breast size, with minimal scars.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER SURGERY?
You'll be wrapped in an elastic bandage or a surgical bra over gauze dressings. Dr. Aguilar may place a small tube in each breast to drain off blood and fluids for the first day or two. You will probably experience some pain for two days, especially when you're moving. Discomfort in the area of surgery may last for a week or more. You can take medications to ease the discomfort. Dr. Aguilar will take off your bandages two days after surgery, but you'll wear the surgical bra 24 hours a day for four weeks, until all of the swelling subsides. He will take out your stitches in about two weeks.