Procedure: Breast Reduction; Mammoplasty

Purpose: To reduce oversized, large, and/or sagging breasts

Surgery Length: 2-4 hours

Anesthesia: General and/or local sedation

Where: Outpatient surgery

Recovery: Swelling, bruising, numbness, and permanent scarring

Back to work: 2 weeks

Full activities: 3-4 weeks

Risks: Bleeding, infection, loss of sensation, and asymmetrical breasts or uneven position of nipples

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Women with very large, pendulous breasts may experience a variety of medical problems caused by the excessive weight their breasts carry, including back,neck, and shoulder pain, in addition to other physical discomforts. Bra straps may leave indentations in their shoulders, and large breasts can make a woman or teenage girl feel embarrassed and self-conscious.

Breast Reduction, technically known as reduction mammoplasty, reduces disproportionate, oversized breasts by removing fat, glandular tissue, and skin from the breasts, making them smaller, lighter, and firmer. A breast reduction can also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple. The goal is to give the woman smaller, better-shaped breasts in proportion with the rest of her body. In most cases, breast reduction isn’t performed until a woman’s breasts are fully developed; however, the surgery can be done earlier if large breasts are causing serious physical discomfort.

The best candidates are those who are mature enough to fully understand the procedure and who have realistic expectations about the results. Breast reduction is not recommended for women who intend to breast-feed.

The procedure does leave scars, which should fade, although they will usually be covered by a bra or bathing suit. In the initial consultation, it is important to discuss expectations frankly with the surgeon, and to listen to his or her opinion. Just as with breast implants, it is important to determine what breast size, shape, and contour is right for each individual.

Dr. Daniel Man and his staff will be happy to discuss breast reduction with you. Please call for a private consultation at 1-800-232-5508 or schedule an appointment online.