Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammaplasty)
Reduction mammaplasty reduces the size and improves the shape of the breasts. Excess skin, fat, and breast tissue are removed and the skin is redraped, elevating the nipple to a higher position.
Good candidates for this procedure have problems that are related to breast size, such as neck, back, and shoulder pain, grooves from bra straps, and irritation in the skin folds under the breast.
Surgery and Recovery
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and patients either stay one night in the hospital or go home the same day. It takes 5-7 days for the discomfort to gradually reduce and strenuous activity should be avoided for 4-6 weeks. We suggest that patients take about one week off work to recover.
Scars are left around the areola, down the lower part of the front of the breast, and along the crease below the breast and lighten over a 6-12 month period.