What to Expect?
Breast reduction is an outpatient procedure that is performed under general anesthesia. Most of these surgeries require two to three hours to complete.
Every breast reduction procedure is customized and depends on your anatomy and the outcome you want. Usually, three incisions are made: one around the areola, another vertically from the bottom edge of the areola to the crease underneath the breast, and the third horizontally beneath the breast in the natural curve of the crease. Our surgeons are exceptionally skilled at keeping scars to a minimum, and often they can be hidden in breast creases in such a way as to be virtually invisible. We also offer scar therapy and scar management for those patients who have a history of poor scarring.
Recovery Time
You may be required to wear an elastic bandage or surgical bra for a period of time during your recovery period. We will monitor your progress and provide you with detailed instructions to speed your healing as much as possible.
Bruising, soreness, and swelling are normal after a breast reduction, but they usually subside quickly. The swelling will be the last after-effect to resolve. While your breasts will, of course, be immediately smaller, the final shape will not fully “settle” for about six months.
Most women take one or two weeks off from work, and you will need to sleep on your back for a short time. You should also avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for a few weeks. Your provider will give you more specific advice and restrictions for your recovery, and also answer any questions you might have about the recovery process. Also note that your surgeon can provide medication to help manage pain, as needed.
