Breast reduction performed by liposuction.

[BACKGROUND] Large breasts and their functional sequelae can be remedied via breast reduction. This procedure has undergone frequent modification to decrease complications inherent in the large flap-based procedures. Liposuction has fewer complications than traditional incisional approaches and less scarring.

[OBJECTIVE] It is our hope that dermatologic and plastic surgeons reevaluate the role of liposuction breast reduction based on our results and consider it as an alternative to incisional techniques.

[METHODS AND MATERIALS] Medical charts, photoimaging, and mammography were used to assess outcomes. Statistical data were calculated using the Fisher exact test (two-sided).

[RESULTS] Patients reported a satisfaction rate of 93%. Nipple elevation was measured to be at a mean of 2.57 cm compared to preoperative values. Older patients (>60 years of age) were noted to have a significantly larger nipple elevation (3.16 cm vs. 1.79 cm). Changes in volume ranged between 695.57 and 712.71 mL per breast. Radiographic changes induced by liposuction were not statistically different from those found in traditional reduction techniques. Patients with a normal body mass index (BMI) were more likely to have a larger breast reduction compared via the dip test.

[CONCLUSIONS] This study illustrates the efficacy of liposuction-based breast reduction for the properly selected patient.