Relieve Discomfort with a Breast Reduction
Patients with oversized breasts may experience physical pain and feel self-conscious about their appearance. Dr. John F. Zavell understands the inconvenience oversized breasts can cause as well as the physical and emotional struggles of his patients. To provide a natural-looking breast reduction that flatters your figure, Dr. Zavell applies refined surgical techniques and a personalized approach at his Toledo, OH, practice. Together, you can plan your procedure so you can feel confident and comfortable with your results.
Who Can Benefit from a Breast Reduction?
Nearly anyone who wants to decrease the size of their breasts is a candidate for surgery. There are several signs that may indicate you need this procedure, such as:
- Breasts that limit exercise and physical activity
- Neck, shoulder, or back pain due to the excess weight of the breasts
- Skin irritation or redness around the creases below the breasts
- Indentations in the shoulders due to bra straps
- Embarrassment or self-consciousness about your appearance
To be eligible for a breast reduction, you should be in good overall health. You should also have realistic expectations. Dr. Zavell can provide a comprehensive evaluation and help you make an educated decision about your treatment.
Insurance Coverage
Breast reduction surgery can be considered both a cosmetic and medical procedure. Patients often mistakenly assume that if their overly large breasts are causing discomfort, then the procedure will automatically be covered by insurance. This is simply not true. In most cases, insurance companies will require proof of sufficient health issues and will also check to see if you have exhausted all other possible treatment options to remedy the problem.
If you are considering breast reduction surgery to address medical concerns, you should reach out to your carrier and request their criteria for coverage, in writing. In the meantime, contacting your primary care physician as soon as you notice concerning symptoms can establish a history of health issues.
Financing Options
At our practice, we do not want finances to stand in the way of the quality treatment you desire and deserve. That is why, in addition to health insurance, we also accept several financing options including CareCredit®, M-lend Financial, and Directions Credit Union to help with out-of-pocket costs.
Dr. Zavell uses strategic incision placement to minimize post-surgical scarring.
Breast Reduction Procedure
The breast reduction procedure is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes about three or four hours to complete. There are several surgical methods that can be used. Dr. Zavell will recommend a technique based on your needs and personal preferences. In every case, Dr. Zavell uses strategic incision placement to minimize post-surgical scarring.
A common technique is an anchor-shaped pattern which involves three incisions around the perimeter of the areola, from the bottom of the areola to the base of the breast, and along the crease. Through these incisions, he will eliminate excess fat and tissue. In some cases, this may include liposuction.
He will then recontour the shape of the breasts, reducing the size of the areolas if necessary. Next, the nipples will be repositioned higher on the breast and the skin around them will be smoothed and pulled taut. Some instances may require the temporary detachment of the nipple but Dr. Zavell avoids this whenever possible.
Healing and Recovery
Following your procedure, you will be fitted for a surgical bra. This will support the tissues and reduce swelling. However, slight discomfort, swelling, and bruising are normal. These side effects generally peak within the first few days, then continue to diminish over time.
Improve Your Quality of Life
If oversized breasts are negatively impacting your quality of life, Dr. Zavell can help alleviate your pain and discomfort. Contact us online or call us at (740) 628-0185 to schedule a consultation.
