Breast Reduction

The amount varies depending on your breast size and desired outcome. We will work with you to determine the right amount for your body and goals. Generally, it can range from a few hundred grams to over a kilogram per breast. The goal is to achieve a size that’s proportionate to your body and alleviates your symptoms.

While some women can still breastfeed after reduction, there is a risk it could be affected. The surgery may impact milk ducts and nerves crucial for breastfeeding. If you plan to have children in the future, discuss this with us. We may be able to use techniques that preserve more breast tissue and improve your chances of breastfeeding.

Most patients return to work within 1-2 weeks, but full recovery can take 4-6 weeks. Initially, you’ll need to rest and avoid strenuous activities. Swelling and discomfort gradually subside over several weeks. We will provide specific post-operative instructions and follow-up care to ensure proper healing.

Yes, there will be scars, but they typically fade over time. The incision pattern depends on how much tissue is removed and your breast shape. Common patterns include an anchor shape or a lollipop shape around the areola and down to the breast crease. We will discuss scar placement and minimization techniques with you.

Many insurance companies cover breast reduction if it’s deemed medically necessary. This usually requires documentation of physical symptoms caused by large breasts, such as back pain or skin irritation. Check with your insurance provider about their specific requirements and coverage policies.

There’s no set ideal age, but it’s generally recommended to wait until breast development is complete, usually in the late teens or early 20s. However, if large breasts are causing significant physical or emotional distress, the procedure can be considered earlier. It’s also common for women to seek breast reduction later in life due to changes from aging or after having children.

Some change in nipple sensation is common immediately after surgery, but this is usually temporary. Most women regain normal sensation within a few months to a year. In rare cases, there may be permanent changes in sensitivity. We will discuss this risk and take steps to preserve nerve function during the procedure.

Most patients experience moderate discomfort for the first few days, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. The pain typically subsides significantly after the first week. You may feel sore, swollen, or have a tight sensation in your chest for several weeks. We will provide a pain management plan to keep you comfortable during recovery.

While we will strive for symmetry, it’s important to remember that some degree of asymmetry is natural in all breasts. The goal is to achieve balance and proportion that looks natural for your body. Any noticeable unevenness usually resolves as swelling subsides and tissues settle over the months following surgery.