Breast Reduction

If you have very large breasts, you may experience more than dissatisfaction with your body image, including physical pain, discomfort and limitations in your physical activity. Through breast reduction surgery, not only can we give you smaller, better-shaped breasts, but we can also help you live a better quality of life with nothing holding you back. 
 

What is Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction is a surgical procedure to reduce the size of large pendulous breasts that are disproportionate to a woman’s body and can cause physical pain. Conditions associated with large breasts include:

• Back, neck and shoulder pain caused by the weight of excess breast tissue
• Shoulder discomfort and indentation from bra straps that support heavy breasts
• Restricted physical activity due to breast size and the associated discomfort
• Skin irritation beneath the breast crease
• Sagging, stretched skin and low breast profile where, when unsupported, the nipple rests below the breast crease
• An enlarged areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple) caused by stretched skin
   

My Breast Reduction

Techniques for breast reduction vary, and your doctor will discuss your options and help decide the safest choice for you to achieve your desired results. Even though there are various techniques, the most common procedure involves an anchor-shaped incision that circles the areola and follows the natural curve of the crease beneath the breast. During the surgery, excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin are removed to achieve a breast size proportionate to your body. 

Because breast reduction is generally considered a reconstructive procedure, it is usually covered by health insurance when it’s performed to relieve medical symptoms. Precertification is often required for reimbursement or coverage, and we will file the necessary forms to obtain this after your consultation.
 

Recovery

Recovery is an important consideration when making the decision about breast reduction.  We realize that you may lead a busy life – whether you are a mom, professional or both – and the amount of recovery time is crucial. Below, you can gain a better understanding of your recovery time. 

• Within one to two weeks of surgery, you may return to normal activity, with no heavy lifting
• Any sutures will be removed within 14 days, possibly allowing a return to work, as long as no heavy lifting is required
• Bruising and swelling will disappear within the first few weeks

Even though you will see immediate results of smaller breasts, it may be six months to a year before your breasts settle into their new shape. Even then, their shape may fluctuate in response to your hormonal shifts, weight changes or pregnancy. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions to heal properly and ensure the greatest results. It is crucial to take time for yourself and rest. Remember, you are doing this for you.