Is Liposuction Necessary During Breast Reduction Surgery?

Question

I have Breast Reduction surgery in about two weeks. I am debating on the Liposuction that was recommended at the same time. If I don't have Liposuction done, can I get similar results through diet and exercise?

Sam Speron, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi,
Thank you for your question.
Liposuction is not necessary for every breast reduction procedure. It depends on the type of procedure being done and on the patient. A lot of times it is highly recommended because it helps the lateral side areas of the breast look flatter and better. Usually we do not charge extra and I usually always do liposuction for breast contouring laterally. This of course, does not include liposuction of back rolls or extensions.
You should consult with your plastic surgeon to see why he is recommending lipo and go from there. Certain areas can be very stubborn so sometimes diet and exercise arent enough. If it is a money issue, I would not compromise results and what is best for you because of the cost.
Best regards,
Dr. Speron

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

Both liposuction and breast surgery are considered cosmetic treatments, meaning that neither are medically necessary procedures but are instead performed to heighten a patient’s appearance and self-esteem. No cosmetic treatment, including liposuction, is “necessary” and you should never feel pressured by a surgeon to opt in for additional surgery should you be uncomfortable with the idea. That being said, liposuction and breast surgery are very often combined in a single surgical sitting to enhance an aging body in the quickest, most effective way. If this is something you are considering, I recommend consulting with at least two or three board certified surgeons in your area to get a professional, personalized opinion on your possible cosmetic treatment.

Michael Constantin Gartner, DO · Answer

Liposuction doesn't have to be performed, but if your surgeon suggested it, you should ask why. Generally, it can achieve a better reduction that's less invasive, so you can recover faster. It may help to reshape your breasts as well. Exercise and diet can help, but there's no way of knowing how you'll lose the weight since you can't spot reduce. LIposuction is the only way to spot reduce fat.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Liposuction breast reduction can decrease the size of breasts if they are comprised mainly of fatty tissue. However, if you have excess glandular tissue, then traditional breast reduction would be better for you. You would have to see an experience board certified plastic surgeon to determine which technique is right for you.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Mahalamom,
Liposuction is not required for a breast reduction.  If you desired to re-contour the area beneath the arm pit that can produce a roll then liposuction is an option.  Whether or not the area of liposuction in question can be reduced with weight loss is only a question you can answer.  It depends on whether you can do all the things to safely loose weight (less calories in/healthier food and more calories out/exercise).
Review your concerns/questions again with your surgeon prior to your surgery.
I hope this is helpful.
Dr. ES

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

Liposuction, as an adjunct to breast reduction, is often beneficial to treat those diet resistant pockets of fat that women complain about on the outer part of the breast that protrude above or beyond the bra strap. You can elect to go without but those fat deposits will remain untreated. Your choice.

Elizabeth Slass Lee, MD · Answer

I am not sure from your posting whether the proposed liposuction is to be done in the area of the breast as part of the breast reduction or in a completely different area as the thighs or abdomen. Liposuction of the area around the underarm at what we refer to as the "tail of the breast" is often done during a breast reduction in order to create the best shaped breast possible. If there is a chance that liposuction will be needed in this area, I will discuss it with the patient before the surgery and make sure that it is listed as a procedure on the surgical consent. I consider this liposuction to be part of the breast reduction procedure and do it to create the best result possible.
If the liposuction is for an area other than related to the breast, necessary is a relative term. If you want liposuction of the hips, for example, it may make alot of sense to do it at the same time as your breast reduction. That way, you have only one postoperative period. There are different risks when you combine more than one procedure at the same time, but if you are healthy and the volume of liposuction and breast reduction are moderate the increase risk should be minimal. However, if you did not request treatment other than to your breasts, then liposuction may not be indicated.
This is a question to ask your surgeon.  Before you undergo surgery, you should be able to discuss any of your questions and concerns with the doctor performing the procedure. If you do not feel comfortable doing this, this may not be the correct surgeon for you.

Armando Soto, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi there-
NO, liposuction is not a necessary component of breast reduction surgery.
More likely, your surgeon was recommending this as a means of maximizing the shape achieved.
If you are not comfortable with it, just express your concerns to your surgeon and ask if the procedure could be done without it.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	Liposuction is not &ldquo;necessary&rdquo;,  can be a useful tool, during breast reduction surgery. One area that often benefits from liposuction surgery is the lateral chest wall ( below the axilla). My suggestion would be to allow your plastic surgeon to use whatever tool necessary to achieve the best results possible.

	Best wishes.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Liposuction is not necessary with breast reductions. It can help thin out the lateral fold of tissue that often persists.

Is Liposuction Necessary During Breast Reduction Surgery?

Answers (14)

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