La Jolla Breast Reconstruction doctors

Thank you for the question.

I have taken care of several patients in the past 2 years  who have wanted to be as flat-chested as possible.  sometimes these patients undergo surgery as part of a “transition” process ( gender identity).  Often, it is helpful for my standpoint,  for patients to have undergone a period of counseling to ensure that their decision is a well thought out decision etc.
 
During breast reduction surgery is important to maintain the blood supply to all the breast tissue and the nipple/areola complexes. The blood supply to the nipple areola complexes are maintained via a “pedicle”. If this pedicle is made to small or narrow in the quest to achieve a very small breasts,  the blood flow to the nipple/areola may be compromised resulting in a ischemic nipple/areola and complications that are potentially difficult to treat.

Sometimes, when patients are very clear about their goals to achieve a very small breast size (almost flat),  then it is best to do the breast reduction procedure in 2 stages.  This allows the breast tissue and nipple/areola tissue to  acclimate to the decreased blood flow during the first stage before further reduction is performed.

It will be important to select a plastic surgeon carefully. make sure you select a well experienced board-certified plastic surgeon and see lots of examples of his/her work.

Costs for surgery will depend on the specific practice;  often,  costs are determined after consultation,  during which time a specific plan is determined.

Best wishes.

Thank you for the question. 

Assuming you have healed well  and  have “reconditioned” after surgery (and appropriately trained...),  there should be problem with tissue expanders in place and scuba diving.  Check with your surgeon in regards to timing (in relation to your surgery).

Have fun.

Thank you for the question.

No your implants ( whether saline or silicone) should not be “hard and  uncomfortable”. Of course, physical examination be necessary to make accurate diagnosis but it is very likely that you are dealing with encapsulation of the breast implants.

Encapsulation refers to  abnormal thickening  of the breast implant capsule (also  referred to as capsular  contraction)  that can cause hardening of the breasts, displacement of the breast implants, and significant discomfort/pain.

It would behoove you to be examined in person by a well experienced board-certified plastic surgeon.

Best wishes.