Combined Breast Procedures

Many women seeking breast augmentation in Indiana are interested in not only increasing their breast size but also having a more youthful breast shape. In situations such as these, where a patient has multiple goals, Dr. Galante may suggest combining more than one procedure to achieve the most desirable outcome.

Are you interested in looking your best through combination breast surgery? Request a complimentary consultation online, or talk with Dr. Galante at either his Schererville or Valparaiso, Indiana, plastic surgery centers by calling 800-721-3244. We also encourage you to read about breast augmentation on Dr. Galante's specially focused breast surgery website.

Your Customized Treatment

During your consultation, Dr. Galante will conduct an in-depth evaluation of your breast anatomy, medical history and goals for surgery. He will take into account specific details such as breast volume, nipple placement, breast symmetry and skin elasticity in order to determine which procedures will be most beneficial. Our patients who need combination breast surgery frequently fall into 1 of 2 categories: breast augmentation with a breast lift or breast reduction with a breast lift.

Breast Augmentation With a Breast Lift

Women in Indiana needing breast augmentation with a simultaneous breast lift often lack adequate breast volume and have a high degree of breast sag. The breasts typically appear deflated and flat, and the nipples point downward. This is very common among women who have had children.

Dr. Galante brings back youthful volume to the chest with the use of breast implants. Indiana women have the option of either silicone gel implants or saline implants. There are advantages and drawbacks to each type, and Dr. Galante will discuss these considerations with you when developing your surgical plan.

The second problem, breast sag, is corrected with a breast lift, which tightens the breast tissue and adjusts the breasts into a more upright position. Sometimes, if there is only a small degree of sag, a breast augmentation alone can provide the subtle lift needed. However, women with more moderate or severe breast sag can benefit from a lift.

Breast Reduction

Breasts that are heavy, large and sagging can lead to a number of physical problems, including back pain, shoulder aches and the need for uncomfortable support garments. Dr. Galante typically recommends a breast reduction, which includes a lift, to reduce the size of the breasts and create a more natural breast shape.

Breast reduction decreases the size of the breasts by removing excess fat and breast tissue. This lightens the breasts, thereby alleviating many unpleasant physical side effects. While reducing the breast, a breast lift is performed simultaneously. This reshapes the new, smaller breasts and brings the nipples to a more desirable location. Dr. Galante can also reduce the size of the areolas if necessary. Performing a breast lift during breast reduction is often necessary to bring the breasts to a higher position on the chest wall.

Recovering From Combined Breast Procedures

Combination breast surgery usually requires more recovery time than a single breast procedure. Usually, Dr. Galante recommends that his patients wear a surgical bra to support their breasts while they heal and speed up the recovery process. Additionally, drainage tubes may be used to help reduce fluid accumulation and swelling.

For the first week, you will notice some swelling, soreness and bruising. Dr. Galante encourages his patients to avoid work or other activity during this time so the body can heal. Pain medication can be requested to reduce discomfort during this period as well.

Full recovery takes a few months, but most women are feeling like themselves again after 4 to 6 weeks. Most patients return to work after about a week, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for about 3 to 4 weeks.