Is liposuction of "side boob" standard with breast reduction? (Photo)

Question

Hi, I was wondering with a breast reduction do surgeons consider lipo of the "side boob" kind of flappy skin a part of the reduction procedure? I've read mixed reviews. I spoke with a surgeon who said that in her opinion if a surgeon doesn't do the lipo it's like they're only doing half of the surgery and leaving the patient to be unhappy afterward. The surgeon I've chosen never mentioned it in my initial consultation and I didn't even know about it. So, what's the general concensus?

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. You will find that there is no "standard" or general consensus when it comes to  the concern of "side boob" with breast reduction surgery.

Generally speaking, many patients undergoing breast reduction surgery are also concerned about “excess” skin and/or adipose tissue of the upper chest (infraaxillary) area  as well. To treat this area liposuction and/or skin excision (lipectomy)  may be necessary. If the area is not treated, it may become even more obvious as an area of “fullness” after the breast reduction procedure is performed.

If a patient elects to have the excess skin in this area removed she should be aware that the scarring of the breast reduction procedure may expand to the side (laterally). Many patients would prefer to have the scar (and an improved contour)  rather than the extra “fold” of tissue.

If the area of the upper lateral chest is not addressed during the breast reduction procedure many patients will be in your situation require revision surgery ( liposuction and/or lipectomy)  to correct the area.

I hope this, and the attached link, helps.  Best wishes.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

No, liposuction of the lateral chest is not part of the standard breast reduction. If this is something you desire, you should discuss it with your surgeon.

Is liposuction of "side boob" standard with breast reduction? (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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Is liposuction of "side boob" standard with breast reduction? (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.