Proud Sponsor of the
HEALTHextra STORY BY BAILEY HEMPHILL
Sunday, October 3rd • 2010 www.KomenNebraska.org
Member American Society of Breast Surgeons Certified by the American Board of Surgery
For more information please call
(402) 934-9323 Midlands Two Professional Center • 401 E Gold Coast Rd, Ste 329 Papillion, NE 68046 • www.yourbreasthealthcare.com
Our goal is to assist clients in maintaining independence while living at home with assistance from Primary Home Health Care.
Our services include:
• No minimum hour required • Individualized treatment plans • • Skilled nursing • Certified home health aides • • Homemaker services • Physician coordination • • Client and care-giver education • Wound care / post surgical care • • Diabetic care / education • Well baby visits •
(402) 345-1350 • primaryhomecare@netzero.com
Breast Reduction
Large breasts are often portrayed as a desirable female feature, but often there are physical and emotional complications that accompany a huge cup-size. Women who have large, heavy breasts may experience upper back, shoulder and neck pain; skin irritation from bra straps; posture and spine issues; embarrassment about breast size; inability to participate in physical activities; and difficulty finding clothing that fits. For women experiencing these side effects, surgery may offer a solution. Breast reduction, also called reduction mammoplasty or gyneomastia, is an outpatient procedure performed in a hospital or surgical center using general anesthesia. During the 3 to 5-hour surgery, a new size and position for the nipple and areola are chosen, and the excess tissue and skin from the breasts are removed. After the remaining breast is reshaped and repositioned, a small tube may be left in place for several days to drain blood and fluid. Immediately after surgery, gauze is placed over the incisions, and the breasts are wrapped in bandages or supported with a surgical bra. Stitches may be removed after a week or two. Most women have some breast pain after the surgery and then milder discomfort for a few weeks. Wearing a surgical bra can help reduce swelling and support the breasts as they heal. Most normal activities can resume within a month. Scars from the surgery are hidden in the crease under the breast and below the areola and usually fade with time. Dr. Nagi Ayoub, a plastic surgeon at Alegent Health Clinic, says that women who have Ds, DDs, and larger (typically postchild), are the perfect candidates for breast reduction. Pain is the primary concern motivating breast reduction, he said. He also adds that breast reduction has a 99 percent satisfaction rate for patients. If you’re considering breast reduction surgery, consult with a cosmetic surgeon to see if you’re a good candidate, and learn about the associated risks.
30 HER • OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2010 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM