Breast Reduction

Breast reduction, also called reduction Mammaplasty, is designed to relieve the physical discomfort often associated with very large breasts and enhance the overall appearance of your breasts. The procedure removes excess breast tissue and skin, making your breasts smaller and firmer. The areola (the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple) may be reduced and repositioned.

Am I a Good Candidate for this procedure?

You may be a good candidate for breast reduction if you have one of more of the following conditions:

Breast that are too large in proportion to your body frame

Heavy, pendulous breasts with nipples and areolas that point downward

One breast that is much larger than the other

Back, neck or shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breasts

Skin irritation beneath your breasts

Indentations in your shoulders from tight bra straps

Restriction of physical activity due to the size and weight of your breasts

Dissatisfaction of self consciousness about the largeness of your breasts

Considering Breast Reduction

Patients who undergo breast reduction surgery frequently are seeking relief from physical symptoms caused by the excessive weight of large breasts. Breast reduction usually can solve these problems as well as improve the size and shape of your breasts. Following breast reduction, your breast will be more proportional to the rest of your body and clothes will fit better.

Your Personal Consultation

During the consultation, you will be asked about your desired breast size and anything else related to the appearance of your breasts that you feel is important. This will help your surgeon to understand your expectations.

How Will My Plastic Surgeon Evaluate Me?

Your plastic surgeon will examine your breast, taking measurements and preoperative photographs for your medical records. The size and shape of your breasts, the quality of your skin and the placement of the nipples and areolas will be carefully evaluated. You should tell your plastic surgeon if you plan to lose a significant amount of weight, particularly if you have noticed that your breasts become smaller with weight loss.

Will my insurance help cover the cost of surgery?

Insurance coverage is sometimes available for breast reduction surgery. Many factors determine your eligibility, including specific terms of your insurance policy and the amount of breast tissue to be removed. A letter of predetermination may be required by your insurance company prior to surgery.

How will I look and feel initially?

The day after surgery, you will be encouraged to get out of bed for short periods of time. After several days, you will be able to move about more comfortably. You will have surgical drains that will be removed usually within 5 days from the surgery date. You may notice that you feel less sensation in the nipple and areola areas. This usually is temporary. It may take weeks, months or even more than a year before sensation returns.