Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Breast Reduction for African Americans

According to recent statistics, cosmetic surgery for African Americans increased 10% in 2008. In a year when plastic surgery as a whole experienced a significant drop, the increase in African American and other ethnic patients has drawn quite a bit of attention. And though breast augmentation was the top surgical procedure performed in 2008 as a whole, statistics show breast reduction is more commonly sought by African American women than augmentation.

Breast reduction surgery can not only offer cosmetic benefits to patients, but medical benefits as well, relieving back and neck pain caused by the extra weight of larger breasts. Though breast reduction is a popular procedure among African American women, many still shy away from the procedure due to anxieties over scarring. Though scarring is often more noticeable in those with darker skin, steps can be taken to lower this risk. Precautions such as limiting sutures near the skin's surface, as well as advanced wound management techniques can help minimize the risk of noticeable scarring in African Americans. Breast reduction using liposuction only is another option to consider. This procedure offers minimal scarring and can alleviate back and neck pain caused by excess breast weight. Though this option is effective in some instances, it is not recommended for women who seek a lifting of the breasts as well as reduction.

As more and more African Americans seek out cosmetic procedures, plastic surgery techniques and sensibilities are evolving to meet the demand. If you are considering cosmetic procedures, such as rhinoplasty, breast reduction or breast augmentation, Atlanta plastic surgeons at The Swan Center offer great information on their website. Or, consult plasticsurgery.org to locate a board certified plastic surgeon in your area.