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Breast Reduction by Liposuction in Females

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Abstract

Background

Breast reduction by liposuction alone is an appealing technique that has failed to gain widespread acceptance. Despite numerous studies on liposuction, the majority of surgeons remain skeptical. This study aimed to review the indication and limitations of this procedure.

Methods

Two groups of patients that qualify for this procedure can be defined. However, the aesthetic result will be pleasing only for young patients. For elderly patients, liposuction breast reduction will simply achieve a weight reduction of the breast without improving the shape.

Results

Universally good liposuction results for breast weight reduction and elevation of the nipple–areolar complex are reported. Improvement in breast shape and correction of ptosis cannot be achieved for elderly patients. Young patients with a preoperatively pleasing breast shape can expect a preservation of the shape with the benefit of minimal scarring.

Conclusion

Liposuction breast reduction is appealing due to selective removal of fat, ease of the procedure, and minimal scarring. The main disadvantage is that a correction of shape and ptosis is not possible with liposuction, and only young patients can expect an aesthetically pleasing result. Elderly patients may benefit from faster recovery times, a less invasive procedure, and low costs. The application of a new technique to a cancer-prone organ represents a potentially serious medicolegal issue because follow-up imaging may be impaired and a possible spread of cancer cells cannot be ruled out. Despite its technical appeal, breast reduction by liposuction alone mandates a cautious approach.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Trauma, Plastic, Reconstructive, and Hand Surgery, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Oberduerrbacherstr 6, 97080, Wuerzburg, Germany

    Rafael G. Jakubietz, Karsten Schmidt, Rainer H. Meffert & Michael G. Jakubietz

  2. Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Hand Surgery, Kantonsspital St. Gallen, Rorschacherstrasse 95, 9007, St. Gallen, Switzerland

    Danni F. Jakubietz & Joerg G. Gruenert

Authors
  1. Rafael G. Jakubietz
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  2. Danni F. Jakubietz
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  3. Joerg G. Gruenert
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  4. Karsten Schmidt
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  5. Rainer H. Meffert
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  6. Michael G. Jakubietz
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Correspondence to Rafael G. Jakubietz.

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Jakubietz, R.G., Jakubietz, D.F., Gruenert, J.G. et al. Breast Reduction by Liposuction in Females. Aesth Plast Surg 35, 402–407 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-010-9611-x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-010-9611-x

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