Breast Reduction

For women bothered by their large breast size and the associated discomfort, breast reduction can be a satisfying procedure. This procedure has both cosmetic and therapeutic benefits; it tightens and reshapes the breasts while providing relief from physical strain of heavy breasts.

Who Should Consider Breast Reduction?

If you meet the conditions below, breast reduction may be right for you.

• Large breasts that cause physical discomfort
• Body image issues related to large breasts
• 10-15 lbs of your ideal body weight
• Non-smoker and physically healthy
• Realistic expectations and capable of understanding surgery risks

How Breast Reduction Works

During surgery, Dr. Rand removes excess tissue, fat and skin that cause the breasts to become heavy and droop. The procedure reduces breast size while sculpting and lifting the breasts to improve their shape. Liposuction and surgical methods of tissue removal are utilized during your breast reduction.

Some cases may require liposuction alone while others require surgical incisions that facilitate lifting of the tissue. Surgery scars should be expected after breast reduction. The patient who truly benefits from this procedure will be willing to accept scars in order to improve her breast size and shape. 

Recovering from Your Breast Reduction

Most patients can return to their normal routine within a week of surgery, but exercise and rigorous activity will need to be postponed for several weeks. Dr. Rand will prescribe a pain medication to control discomfort and provide a special surgical bra that will need to be worn day and night during the recovery period

Breast Reduction FAQ

Will my health insurance provide cover breast reduction?

Health insurance companies will often cover breast reduction but they have specific criteria you must meet. However, health insurance companies often do not sufficiently reimburse the doctor, so fewer experienced plastic surgeons are accepting insurance.

Can you reduce breast size with exercise?

Breast size can be reduced with exercise but unfortunately, breast shape and position will usually suffer as a result. If the nipple is at or below the breast crease, it will stay there or even go a little lower as you lose weight.

How long does the procedure take?

Breast reduction may require 1 to 3 hours of operating time

What type of anesthesia is used?

General anesthesia or local with sedation.

Is this an inpatient or outpatient procedure?

Breast reduction is typically outpatient. If certain medical issues made it necessary, inpatient would be an option.

What are the possible side effects?

Temporary bruising, swelling, discomfort, numbness, dry breast skin. Permanent scars.

What are the risks?

Thick, wide scars; skin loss; infection. Unevenly positioned nipples. Permanent loss of feeling in nipples or breast.

How long is recovery?

Back to work: 1 week or more. Strenuous activities: 1 month. Fading of scars: several months to a year.