Breast Reduction

There are a variety of reduction procedures available, and numerous incision patterns that can be used. The surgeon typically uses an anchor-shaped breast reduction incision, which travels around the nipple, down to the base of the breast, and along the inframammary fold. This incision allows the surgeon to remove excess skin from the bottom half of the breast. In many cases, liposuction is also used to remove fatty tissue from inside the breast. After removing the appropriate tissue, the surgeon relocates the nipple and closes the incisions to create smaller, perkier breasts that feel more comfortable and fit the patient’s body better.

It’s extremely important that you fill out your paperwork correctly regarding any medications or supplements you take as they might interfere with the smoothness and safety of your surgery. Also, if you’re a smoker, you should stop smoking at least 15 days prior to your procedure.

After surgery, patients should plan to go through a recovery period. Most patients can return to work after about 1-2 weeks, once their stitches are removed. It is important to wear a specialized surgical bra for several weeks after surgery, and avoid heavy lifting during this time. Physically demanding activity will need to be avoided for around 6 weeks or more. Some breast reduction patients experience pain or tenderness during menstrual periods for a few months after surgery. Full healing may take 6 months or more.

Yes, a breast reduction also includes a breast lift. The surgeon will remove excess breast tissues, tighten the skin, and move your nipples up in the correct area. Consequently, the breast reduction will also make your breast appear perkier and more uplifted. While a breast reduction also includes a lift, the same isn’t true the other way around — a breast lift doesn’t automatically reduce your breast size.

No, there’s a common but completely UNTRUE assumption that a breast reduction involves removing your nipples. While some of the skin around the nipples will be removed and tightened, the nipples will remain firmly attached to your breasts. The nipples will be even more prominent because your breast will be uplifted.

Scars usually soften and fade within 6 to 12 months. Because scars are permanent and their appearance can be difficult to predict, scarring is an important consideration for many women.

Once the excess breast tissues are removed, they’re gone forever. However, the remaining breast tissues can expand or contract with fluctuations in weight, hormones, and the gradual aging process can make them droop downwards. As such, breast reduction produces permanent results, but, like all breasts, they’re not immune to changes caused by age, weight fluctuations, and other factors.

Breast-feeding is usually possible since the nipple is not separated from the milk glands.

Some patients have trouble distinguishing between breast lifts and reductions because both involve contouring the existing tissues for an improved appearance. However, they have different purposes — breast lifts contour and remove some of the existing tissues to lift the breasts, while breast reductions are primarily focused on decreasing the cup size.