If cancer or another disease has required a breast to be surgically removed, a breast reconstruction procedure can create a new breast that will appear to be natural. If your natural breasts are excessively large, a breast reduction procedure can help resolve both physical and emotional problems that may result from such a condition.

Breast Reconstruction

Reconstruction of a breast that has been surgically removed due to breast cancer or other disease process is one of the most rewarding procedures available. It is possible to create a breast that resembles the appearance of a natural breast. It can be performed at the same time as removal of the breast (immediate reconstruction) or at a later stage (delayed reconstruction). Fortunately, when a patient has immediate reconstruction, she is spared the distress of seeing herself with significant asymmetry or absence of a breast.

Post-mastectomy breast reconstruction is not a simple procedure. It often requires several operations to complete a fully reconstructed breast. There are several options to consider as you and your surgeon explore the best choice for you.

New medical techniques and devices have made it possible to reconstruct a breast which resembles the shape and appearance of the opposite natural breast. The surgical options will depend on a number of factors which include: the size and shape of the opposite breast, the desire to use your own tissue (autogenous) versus tissue expansion with an implant, your body size, the availability of your own tissue, and any preexisting medical conditions. Your surgeon will be glad to review all of the options in depth in addition to the associated risks and benefits of each option. After examining you and understanding your expectations, she will be able to assist you in determining the option that is best suited for you.

Breast Reduction

Overly large breasts can cause some women to have both health and emotional problems. In addition to self image issues, you may also experience physical pain and discomfort.

The weight of excess breast tissue can impair your ability to lead an active life. The emotional discomfort and self-consciousness often associated with having large pendulous breasts is as important an issue to many women as the physical discomfort and pain.

Also known as reduction mammaplasty, this procedure removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with your body and to alleviate the discomfort associated with overly large breasts.

Breast reduction is a good option for you if:

* You are physically healthy

* You have realistic expectations

* You don't smoke

* You are bothered by the feeling that your breasts are too large

* Your breasts limit your physical activity

* You experience back, neck and shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breasts

* You have regular indentations from bra straps that support heavy, pendulous breasts

* You have skin irritation beneath the breast crease

* Your breasts hang low and have stretched skin

* Your nipples rest below the breast crease when your breasts are unsupported

* You have enlarged areolas caused by stretched skin

Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction)

Gynecomastia, or breast reduction for men, is the surgical correction of over-developed or enlarged breasts in men.

Gynecomastia, a condition of over-developed or enlarged breasts in men, is common in men of any age. It can be the result of hormonal changes, heredity conditions, disease or the use of certain drugs.

Gynecomastia can cause emotional discomfort and impair your self confidence. Some men may even avoid certain physical activities and intimacy simply to hide their condition.

Surgical correction of gynecomastia is best performed on:

* Men whose condition cannot be corrected through alternative medical treatments

* Healthy individuals who do not have a life-threatening illness or medical conditions that can impair healing

* Non-smokers and non-drug users

* Men with a positive outlook and specific goals in mind for improving the physical symptoms of gynecomastia