A breast reduction is a procedure in which excess fat and tissues are removed from the breasts in an effort to reduce them in size. It can also involve repositioning the nipple and areola area to make them better fit the new contours of a woman’s breast. It differs from male gynecomastia surgery in that it also takes into account a woman’s mammary gland structure, making it possible for her to breastfeed in the future.

Women who undergo a breast reduction may notice these and other benefits:

You may be a good candidate for a breast reduction if:

If you have back or neck problems, talk with your primary care physician to determine if having a breast reduction would help. Although removing excess tissue can help with alignment issues, it does not resolve problems such as a slipped or herniated disc, and may therefore not provide you with the relief you desire. Once you have been given approval, contact Miami Valley Plastic Surgeons to schedule a consultation. During that visit, we will discuss any other pre-operative requirements with you, including the need for a mammogram.

Prior to coming in, shower with an antibacterial soap, but do not apply deodorant or antiperspirant. Dress in loose, comfortable clothing, as you will wear the same garments when you return home. We will provide you with a surgical bra that somewhat resembles a sports bra to wear after leaving our office.

A typical breast reduction procedure takes around two hours. Your surgery may take slightly less time or just a bit longer.

You may feel sore and have difficulty lifting your arms over your head for a few days afterwards. It is important to limit activity during the first two weeks, so you should have someone help you around the house if possible.  Gradually increase your activity level as you become more comfortable, but avoid doing any heavy lifting until you have been cleared by a physician.

Some incisions are needed in order to access tissue. The area where tissue is removed from will largely determine whether or not you have visible scarring.

You will notice a difference in the size of your breasts immediately; however, you won’t be able to fully appreciate the results for a week or so, since there may be some swelling present initially.

It is impossible for you to grow more breast tissue, which means your results will be permanent. The one thing that could alter those results would be excessive weight gain in the future. If you were to gain weight, the fat cells in your breasts might increase in size, causing your bosom to become bigger again. That does not mean another procedure would be required, but rather that you would simply need to lose weight in order to get your post-surgery figure back.

Many women find that they have loose, sagging skin after having a breast reduction, and desire a breast lift to firm up their new, smaller chest area.

Because you may have different needs than any other patient, we will not be able to discuss the exact cost with you until after your consultation. Cash, personal checks, and credit cards are always accepted for any of the procedures we offer, and many of our patients will also qualify for low-interest financing.