Breast Reduction


Introduction

Breast reduction is a fairly common procedure, and is performed to bring your breasts more in proportion to the rest of your body size. It’s often done to relieve back and shoulder pain as well.


Ideal Candidates

If you are otherwise healthy but find that the weight of your breasts causes shoulder or neck pain, if your bra straps dig into your shoulders, or you feel that your breasts are too large for your body size, breast reduction might be right for you. When you meet with Dr. Soto at your consultation, he will help you create a clear picture of your desired result. Like other breast procedures, if you intend to breastfeed, we suggest that you discuss this with Dr. Soto at your consultation. In general, the majority of women who undergo cosmetic breast procedures such as augmentation, reduction or breast lifts, are able to breastfeed.


How It's Done

Breast reduction surgery is performed either under sedation with local anesthesia or general anesthesia in Dr. Soto’s accredited on-site surgical suite. Each woman is unique but, on average, the procedure takes 2-3 hours and is done on an outpatient basis.

Dr. Soto will make an incision between the nipple and the fold(deleted “er”) under the breast, often called a lollipop incision or inverted “T”. Excess breast tissue is carefully removed to create an even, natural appearance. The areola will be repositioned on the breast and excess skin removed. Dr. Soto always performs a breast lift in conjunction with breast reduction to be sure your breasts are not just smaller, but also firm and natural in appearance.

You will need a friend or family member to drive you home from the surgery center, as you will still be recovering from anesthesia.


Recovery

You will need to wear a supportive bra 24 hours a day for approximately a month. Most of our patients feel fairly well in about a week, though it takes approximately six weeks for full healing.

For about a month following a breast reduction, please avoid any strenuous exercise or lifting, or any activities which use your chest muscles or require you to lift your arms over your head.

Some patients do experience a lack of sensation in the nipple area following this procedure, though it’s generally temporary and disappears at the area heals. There will be noticeable scars from this procedure, though they will fade with time.

Breast reduction surgery has a huge effect on the lives of our patients who have suffered, some of them for years, with oversize breasts that have made their lives so uncomfortable. You may find that you have a renewed interest in clothes shopping, too!