Breast Reduction

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures. During the procedure, the surgeon removes excess skin, fat, and glandular tissue from the breasts to make them smaller. They also reshape the breasts. Reducing excess tissue and elevating the breasts on the chest wall improves or alleviates many of the physical symptoms associated with disproportionately large breasts.

Patients who benefit most from breast reduction surgery are women who have disproportionately large breasts, causing problems such as back, shoulder, and neck pain, postural changes, bra-strap grooving, skin irritation and rashes under the breasts, and difficulty with activities of daily living and exercise.

Advantages of Breast Reduction

• This common surgical procedure makes your breasts more proportionate to your body size.
• Breast reduction resolves painful and irritating physical symptoms, including neck, shoulder, and back pain caused by heavy breasts.
• Studies show that breast reduction positively impacts women’s self-esteem and quality of life.
• Areola and nipple reduction are usually performed during the same procedure, making your breasts look perkier and more proportional.
• Patients report how excited they are to finally dress in a way that matches their personal style and no longer feel self-conscious. They’re also able to participate in physical activities, like running, that previously were difficult.
• Women who undergo breast reduction are frequently told by friends and family that they look as though they have lost weight. That’s because the visual impression of a disproportionately large-breasted woman of any age is that she appears overweight, even if she is not.”

How long does it take to recover from breast reduction surgery?

Most patients take at least a week off work for their initial recovery, though it takes six to eight weeks to fully recover after a breast reduction procedure. At that point, the inflammation and swelling will have reduced to a point that your breasts feel soft, natural, and comfortable.

Expect some bruising and mild to moderate pain during the first week or so. You can manage pain prescription medication. You may feel sore and as if there’s pulling, stretching, or tightness in the area for two to three weeks.

We recommend wearing your surgical bra for up to four weeks post-surgery, followed by a sports bra for an additional four weeks. Avoid wearing underwire bras during this time; they can rub the incisions.

You can be back to normal activities within four to six weeks. It’s important to avoid strenuous activity or lifting heavy objects until that time.