What Is Breast Reduction?

Reduction mammoplasty, more commonly known as breast reduction surgery, is one of the most commonly performed plastic surgery procedures. Many women suffer from pain and discomfort associated with disproportionately large breasts. Male breast reduction is also a procedure, known as gynecomastia surgery.

A breast reduction removes excess skin, fat, and glandular tissue from the area to alter the size and shape to be smaller and more comfortable. In many cases, when reshaping the breasts and nipples, patients will see a firmer and perkier result. The goal of the procedure is to reduce excess tissue and elevate the breasts on the chest wall to alleviate physical symptoms associated with uncomfortably large breasts.

Breast Reduction

Price Range $10,000 - $30,000

Recovery Time 1 - 2 weeks

A breast reduction removes excess skin, fat, and glandular tissue from the area to alter the size and shape to be smaller and more comfortable. In many cases, when reshaping the breasts and nipples, patients will see a firmer and perkier result. The goal of the procedure is to reduce excess tissue and elevate the breasts on the chest wall to alleviate physical symptoms associated with uncomfortably large breasts.

Breast Reduction

Is Breast Reduction Worth It?

For many women, oversized breasts can be a burden. They cause shoulder, neck, back, and chest pain from excess weight and the weight put on bra straps. In addition, breasts that are disproportionate can lead to trouble finding comfortable or flattering clothing, exercising, and even lying down.

According to many of our patients in Rockford breast reduction surgery helped improve their quality of life and boost self-esteem. Additional benefits include nipple and areola reduction, to help ensure that all aspects of the breast look natural and are proportionate to the new shape and size.

What Happens During Breast Reduction Surgery?

The first step towards breast reduction surgery is to schedule a consultation with an experienced and licensed plastic surgeon. PryorHealth offers breast reduction surgery at our facility in Rockford.

There are various breast reduction techniques and procedures our expert surgeons use to achieve the desired results. Together, you can determine a surgical plan that best suits your needs. Certain techniques, for example, can help to improve your success with breastfeeding after a reduction mammoplasty. Liposuction may also be performed during the breast reduction procedure. Two different techniques can be used during the surgery:

Vertical, or “lollipop,” breast reduction: An incision is made around the areola, which is then connected to a second incision that runs from the areola to the natural crease where the breast sits. This approach is best for a modest reduction and can help with sagging.
Inverted-T, or anchor, breast reduction: This type of incision is made around the areola. Then, two incisions are made that connect from the vertical extension at the bottom of the areola to the breast crease. It is a classic incision technique for breast surgery and can be ideal for extensive size reduction and skin tightening.

Recovery After Breast Reduction

The first few days and weeks after surgery will require the most attention and assistance. Immediately after breast reduction Rockford patients will be fitted with a surgical bra and sometimes gauze dressing and bandages. Small drainage tubes are often used to remove excess blood and fluids that build up 24-48 hours after surgery.

It takes around six to eight weeks to fully recover from this surgery, but most patients are comfortable enough to return to work after a week and can return to normal activities within four to six. It’s very important that no heavy lifting or strenuous activities are attempted until you are medically cleared.

Breast Reduction Risks

Like all procedures, there are risks and side effects to consider when thinking about breast reduction surgery. The most common side effects of any surgery include tenderness at the operation site, bruising, swelling, and scarring. Patients will also be warned of the risk of a reaction to anesthesia, infection, and hematoma during surgery.

Patients must have realistic expectations, and understand that with any surgical procedure, there is some risk. Nipple sensation may also temporarily decrease, but most patients regain feeling within a year. These risks are significantly reduced when you receive your breast reduction from the PryorHealth board-certified cosmetic surgeons that prioritizes patient care and comfort.

Can Your Breasts Still Change After Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction surgery is considered a permanent procedure, but it will not prevent further changes that can occur due to hormones, weight gain, or gravity. These can all cause breasts to naturally change in size and shape, often leading to loose skin and sagging over the years.

In some cases, though generally uncommon, the breast tissue can return. Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle can help prevent this from occurring, but pregnancy, hormonal changes, menopause, and weight changes can impact the appearance of your breasts throughout your life.

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