Breast Reduction with Dr. Scott Sattler, Seattle WA
A breast reduction is a surgical procedure that reduces the breast weight and repositions the nipples. The result is an aesthetically pleasing breast that is ‘lighter’ and has a better shape. For many women with heavy and pendulous breasts, neck pain, back pain and head aches are frequent complaints. Self-consciousness in social settings and the inability to find properly fitting clothing are also concerns. A breast reduction can significantly improve these complaints.
Patients’ satisfaction with breast reduction surgery is extremely high. When the American Society of Plastic Surgeons surveyed a large group of women that have had breast reduction surgery done, over 95% of patients responded that they would have the surgery done again. Breast reduction surgery ranks first in rate of patient satisfaction amongst all breast and body plastic surgery procedures.
Depending on your breast anatomy and goals for breast reduction, there are several methods to surgically reduce breast size. Dr. Sattler has extensive experience with both 'traditional' Wise-pattern (anchor-shaped scar) and the newer 'short scar' vertical breast reduction techniques. There are pros and cons to each technique, and Dr. Sattler will spend a significant amount of time during your consultation educating you about these different techniques.
For most healthy women, a breast reduction is an 'outpatient' operation, and is done by Dr. Sattler at the Naficy Plastic Surgery Center in Bellevue. Dr. Sattler uses 'drains' which collect any fluid that might result from the operation- these drains are removed a few days after surgery. You will also have the option using a 'pain pump' post-operatively, which drips local anesthetic into each breast, and significantly diminishes the amount of post-operative discomfort that patients experience.
Some patients with neck pain, back pain and headaches have these symptoms for reasons other than their breast size. A breast reduction is not a guarantee of relief from these complaints, but it is helpful for many women. This operation has best results for women that are close to their ideal body weight. It is not performed for patients that are actively smoking.
The amount of tissue that will be removed during breast reduction surgery is based on several factors. First, you should tell Dr. Sattler what size and shape you would like your breasts to be after surgery. Your breast measurements, height and weight will be considered as well. Using this information, a range of breast reduction weights can be calculated. For patients that are interested in having their insurance company pay for surgery, there may be specific breast weight reduction criteria that must be met in order for the operation to be paid for.
A breast reduction historically has been considered a reconstructive procedure, in which insurance companies would cover as an approved benefit. Times are changing, and insurance companies have grown more restrictive about covering this surgery for women. Dr. Sattler accepts Premera, Regence and Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance carriers. He can be an 'out-of-network- provider for other insurance companies. Dr. Sattler’s clinic will process the insurance paperwork for you, and attempt to obtain a pre-approval letter from your insurance company before surgery. In some cases however, the type of breast reduction that is safest for a patient will not be covered by insurance. In these cases, you have the option to pay for the procedure prior to surgery.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Sattler, use the green ‘Schedule Online’ button.