A 2019 TOP DOC Dr. Maria Jacobs leads the Radiation Oncology team at Mercy Medical Center bringing passion, enthusiasm and a heart for caring to her patients.
Mercy’s team of breast surgeons and breast cancer specialists in Baltimore help women determine the best breast cancer treatment options available to them.
The Breast Reconstruction and Restoration Center at Mercy is led by Dr. Bernard (Bernie) Chang, and Dr. Brendan Collins -recognized specialists in breast reconstruction and restoration.
Mercy offers emergency care on the Downtown Baltimore campus 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (410-332-9477) with access to a trained emergency medicine team, diagnostic services and consultations with specialists.
In case of an Emergency, Dial 911 and follow the instructions of the EMS (Emergency Medical Services) team.
Mercy Medical Center's downtown campus includes our Main Hospital - The Mary Catherine Bunting Center, McAuley Plaza and The Weinberg Center.
General visiting hours at Mercy are 11:00 am to 8:30 pm. Hours vary by floor, please check with the nursing staff or call 410-332-9555.
See Before and After Photos of Breast Reductions >
During breast reduction surgery, excess breast skin, fat, and tissue are removed to reduce the size of the breast. The breast is reshaped and contoured in proportion to a patient’s body size. Dr. Bernie Chang and Dr. Brendan Collins , expert cosmetic surgeons at The Breast Reconstruction & Restoration Center at Mercy, talk with patients to understand their reasons for requesting a breast reduction and develop a treatment plan to help reduce pain and provide patients with a better self image.
*Breast restoration procedures including breast augmentation, breast reduction and breast lifts, are also performed by skilled surgeon, Dr. Craig Vander Kolk, in Cosmetic Medicine and Surgery at Mercy.
Women who have overly large breasts can experience pain and discomfort as the weight of the breasts pull on the back, neck, and shoulder. They also may have emotional and self-image issues since large breasts can limit physical activity, cause skin irritation under the breasts, and cause indentations from bra straps. A breast reduction reduces pain and helps women feel more confident and comfortable.
There are several incision patterns that can be used to achieve a breast reduction. Depending upon the patient’s anatomy, the cosmetic surgeon will determine the best treatment option. During a breast reduction, incisions can be made:
Following the incision, the excess skin, fat, and tissue is removed and the breast is reshaped to a natural contour.
Breast reduction surgery can be covered by insurance in some cases. Most insurance companies require 400 to 1000 grams of breast tissue to be removed in order for coverage to be authorized. When the amount to be removed is less than that required by insurance, breast reduction surgery essentially becomes cosmetic surgery. Even when a smaller amount of breast tissue is removed, many patients still experience some reduction in pain.
Dr. Bernie Chang is Director of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at Mercy and also leads The Breast Reconstruction and Restoration Center. He pioneered treatment options like DIEP flap breast reconstruction.
Jennifer, breast cancer survivor and avid horse racing fan, tells the story of her diagnosis, treatment and recovery.