With weight loss, there is considerable loss of fat from the female breast.  The elastic properties of the female breast have been stretched with weight gain and fail to recoil after weight loss.  The resulting female breast after weight loss is an extremely elongated breast without much substance.

Surgical reconstruction of the female breast requires correction of two fundamental principles.  The first principle requires lifting the breast to a more normal position.  The second principle requires returning volume to the breast. 

The breast lift can be done through a variety of incisions.  If there is a moderate amount of fat still left in the breast, this may be the only surgery required.  Your breast lift may require just an incision around the areola or may require an incision from the areola down to the inframammary fold and then underneath the inframammary fold in the shape of an anchor.  This all depends on how much skin redundancy there is and how large your breasts were.  As with most post bariatric plastic surgery, the longer the incision, the better the results.

If there is a lack of breast volume, breast augmentation with breast implants is required.  There are many different types of breast implants and Dr. Katzen will thoroughly discuss the options with you.  Most females require both breast augmentation with implants and breast lift to re-establish both volume and position of the breasts.

If your surgery is needed for medical reasons, insurance may pay for a portion of the operation. Insurance companies usually do not pay for breast implants, but Dr. Katzen will send your medical information to your insurance company for their determination.  Dr. Katzen and his staff will make every effort to try to have your procedure covered by insurance.  In the end, however, the final decision is up to your insurance carrier.

The surgery usually lasts approximately 3-4 hours.  Before any breast surgery is performed, a mammogram will be obtained to confirm normal appearing breasts.

Breast reconstruction patients can usually return to work 5-7 days after the procedure.  During that time, heavy lifting and lifting objects over your shoulders is discouraged.  Patients usually experience minimal pain and discomfort that is controlled with medication.  Driving and exercise can usually be initiated approximately two weeks after surgery.  Breast reconstructions are usually extremely satisfying to women who have had large breasts all their life.  A breast lift and augmentation can dramatically improve the appearance of the breasts and restore natural breast shape after weight loss.  Ask Dr. Katzen what he can do for your breasts to help you obtain a more natural-looking female figure after your weight loss.