Is liposuction during a breast reduction the best way to reduce bulk at the side and under the arms?

Question

I just had my first consultation and my Dr. said he prefers to use liposuction to get a slimmer look to the sides of the breast. He also said this would result in smaller incision scars. This would also be an additional $3000. A friend of mine who has had breast surgery as well as a tummy tuck said that sometimes lipo can result in sagging skin and that the larger scar under my arms would be hardly noticeable once healed. Any opinions would be great. I'm 30 and currently a 34 J

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I have done this procedure many times with myself and a plastic surgeon. I do HI def body contouring and the surgeon will do the lift/implant at the same time. This will give you the best results. I suggest you see an expert who works with other surgeons at the same time to get your best results and can formally evaluate you to see if you are a candidate. Best, Dr. Emer

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Becky.  Hard to answer without photos, but generally speaking, Lateral breast fullness best treated with direct excision and removal of redundant skin(your friend was right!). There are various techniques to accomplish this. Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Good Luck!

Atul Kesarwani, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Either liposuction or dermolipectomy of the lateral breast can be the preferred choice depending on your shape and expectations. A photo may help in suggesting what may be more suitable for you, but the suggestion of surgeon who has examined you will be of more use to you.

Nicholas Tarola, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The decision to perform liposuction vs skin removal really depends on whether there is any excess skin in the area.  Do you have a roll of skin and fat that hangs over on the sides of your chest extending out from your breasts?  If so, you may need the incision to be taken out further to the side.  However, if you simply have fullness in the area without excess skin, then liposuction may be the best answer.  Without photos or an in-person evaluation, we cannot make recommendations for you.  Best wishes!

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

Liposuction is an excellent way to reduce the fullness to the side of the breast and chest, and the under arm and we use this technique for most breast reduction procedures. It also is very helpful for shaping with a short scar or vertical reduction for those who are candidates.

Is liposuction during a breast reduction the best way to reduce bulk at the side and under the arms?

Answers (9)