Apart from causing physical pain, large breasts can deeply affect the psychological state of a woman. They also limit women from leading an active lifestyle. If you’re unhappy with the size of your breasts and suffer from persistent pain in the neck, shoulders, and back, breast reduction surgery may be helpful.

Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure done with the primary aim of removing excess tissue and fat from the breast region to shrink the breasts. Mostly, reduction mammoplasty is performed to relieve pain and compression in the lower back experienced by women with large breasts.

Are You a Good Candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery?

Reduction mammoplasty is a tailored procedure designed around the requirements of the patient. Removal of excess breast tissue is the best option for women who:

  • Have realistic expectations from this surgery
  • Are physically healthy
  • Are non-smokers
  • Face limitations in performing physical activities given the large shape of their breasts
  • Experience emotional issues and self-consciousness about their appearance
  • Face problems of skin irritation along the crease of their breasts
  • Have nipples that descend below the breast crease when unsupported
  • Have enlarged areolae because of stretched skin
  • Suffer from persistent pain in the neck, back, and shoulders

Reduction Mammoplasty Procedure

The procedure of reduction mammoplasty follows these steps:

1. Anesthesia: Since the procedure is invasive in nature, the first step is administration of anesthesia. Consult with your plastic surgeon to identify the option that you are most comfortable with.

2. Incision: Following the administration of anesthesia, the surgeon proceeds to make the incisions to gain access to the underlying tissue and excess skin. The type of incision made is similar to that made in the breast lift procedure: donut, lollipop, or anchor pattern.

3. Repositioning and Tissue Removal: After the incision is made, the skin is opened to access the underlying tissue. Excess tissue is then removed. The areola remains attached to the blood vessels and nerves while it is repositioned. If needed, the diameter of the areola is reduced. In special cases, the areola is removed completely and grafted to a higher position after removal of excess tissue.

4. Closing the Incision: Through covering the incision by bringing the skin closer, breast size is reduced. Breasts are reshaped by deep-tissue sutures. The incisions are closed using sutures, surgical tape, or skin adhesives.

Expected Results

The results of reduction mammoplasty are visible immediately after the surgical procedure. Once the initial swelling subsides, there is noticeable improvement in the appearance of the breasts.

Recovery from Reduction Mammoplasty

After surgery, the incision sites are dressed and compressed with a support bra or elastic bandage. Initially, a small drain tube may be attached to the incision site to collect any excess drainage of fluids or blood.

Avoid all physical activities, including lifting heavy objects, for a minimum period of one month. A degree of temporary soreness and swelling is expected during the first week, but these issues will ameliorate soon.

Schedule Your Breast Reduction Consultation to Learn More

Is a breast reduction right for you? To find out, visit Dr. Gregory Park, a double-board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience. Make an appointment for a consultation by contacting our office.