Indianapolis Institute for Plastic Surgery

When should I consider a breast reduction?

Large, heavy breasts which may be the cause of back, shoulder, neck pain, poor posture, bra-strap indentations, and rashes under breast creases.
Excessive breast size, which may decrease a sense of attractiveness and self-confidence.
Excessive breast size, which may interfere with normal daily activities or with exercise.

Anticipated Results:

Smaller breasts with an uplifted, more attractive contour.
Improvement in pain or health problems associated with excessively large breasts.

For most breast reductions Dr. Short uses the SPAIR technique. This technique is a recent advance in breast reduction procedures that can allow for a prettier breast by decreasing lateral (outer) fullness and creating a more natural looking breast shape, while at the same time decreasing the incisions on the breasts. The incision with the SPAIR technique is around the nipple-areolar complexes (pigmented region around the nipples) with a vertical incision down (like a lollipop).

Sometimes the incision is also placed in the fold of the breast crease. The nipple-areolar complex is decreased in size and is moved up towards the desired location. The nipple-areolar complex is not removed but the skin is tightened around the breast mound. The nipple is not removed and nipple sensation is preserved. Excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are then removed to the desired cup size and the skin envelope is tightened creating a "perkier" breast shape.

SPAIR Breast Reduction
Patient 1 had significant back and neck due to the large volume of the breasts prior to surgery. The patient's symptoms resolved immediately following surgery. After the surgery, the patient was a C cup. Patient 1 is pictured below 6 weeks following surgery.

Patient 1


Before		After

Patient 2 had the SPAIR breast reduction procedure. After surgery, the patient's breast size was more proportionate to the rest of her body frame. She felt more comfortable with wearing clothes and participating in sports related activities. Patient 2 is pictured before and one year following surgery.

Patient 2


Before		After

Patient 3 had a smaller amount of breast tissue removed, but the same technique was utilized intra-operatively. Patient 3 is pictured before surgery and 6 weeks following surgery.

Patient 3


Before	After

Scarless Breast Reduction: Liposuction of the Breasts

Depending upon your anatomy Dr. Short may be able to perform a liposuction only breast reduction, often called a scarless breast reduction. This technique is performed through two small incisions (approximately 1 cm) on each breast. Because the chest if composed primarily of fat, liposuction with special techniques can be used to remove this fat and to promote skin contraction and help it mold down around this reduced "fatty" framework. In some cases a woman can achieve a one or two cup size reduction with elevation of the nipple. The breast size, degree of sagging, and how much lift and shape is desired will determine whether or not you are a good candidate for this type of breast reduction.

Patient 4 decreased her cup size by 1 cup sizes. This patient had a reduction in size and a mild elevation of nipple position. This patient received good skin contraction and was a good candidate for this technique due to her breast characteristics and expectations. Patient 4 is pictured before and after at 6 weeks after surgery.

Patient 4


Before	After