If you're looking to relieve pain and irritation caused by large, heavy breasts, it may be time to consider breast reduction surgery. This procedure isn't just about changing the way you look — having breast reduction surgery may increase your overall quality of life.
Read on to learn what to expect if you choose to have a breast reduction and why Penn Plastic Surgery is a leader in the region.
Benefits of a breast reduction
Breast reduction surgery, also called reduction mammoplasty, removes excess breast tissue and skin to create a breast size and shape that is more proportionate to your body.
The benefits of a breast reduction include relief of back, neck and shoulder discomfort, increased ability to exercise and higher satisfaction with your appearance.
Why Penn Plastic Surgery?
The specialists at Penn Plastic Surgery are ready to help you get started. With surgeons located in Philadelphia, on the Main Line and in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, you can count on us for guidance every step of the way, including working with your health insurance company to ensure that the procedure is covered.
Breast reduction surgery: What to expect
Penn Plastic Surgery's team of breast reduction surgery experts will guide you through every step of the surgical process, from a one-on-one meeting to determine the best approach to your needs, to being there for you throughout your recovery. Here's how we do it:
Getting prepared for breast reduction surgery
Begin with a breast reduction consultation to discuss your goals and options and to see if surgery is right for you. In some cases, individuals may only need a breast lift and not a full breast reduction. Different surgical techniques are available for each procedure, and the surgeon will be happy to discuss each one with you. See our page of frequently asked questions for scheduling an appointment and pre and post-surgery care.
During your breast reduction consultation, you will be asked about your physical health, any conditions that you currently have or medications you currently take, and if you use tobacco. We also want to know about the symptoms you are experiencing as a result of having large breasts, which can include physical or emotional discomfort.
You will then receive a physical examination, and pictures of your breasts may be taken for your medical record. The surgeon will also discuss the risks that come with all surgeries as well as possible breast reduction complications.
Breast reduction surgery
If surgery is scheduled, You'll receive instructions on how to prepare for your surgery, including any foods, drinks or medications to avoid. You may be asked to take a mammogram before the procedure, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer. This will be helpful when examining any changes in your breast tissue that occur after surgery.
You will receive general anesthesia for the duration of the surgery, which, on average, takes two to four hours. Breast tissue and skin will be removed, and the remaining skin and tissue will be lifted and shaped to the desired profile. The surgical team will take care to preserve nipple sensitivity.
Breast reduction recovery
After your surgery, you will either spend the night in the hospital, or return to your home. If you return home, you may be asked to return for a post-operative office visit the next day.
A specialized surgical bra will provide support and help minimize swelling as you heal. Your surgeon will let you know when you will be able to wear a regular bra.
Prescription medications may be given to help you manage any pain or discomfort, which can last for one to two weeks. Your surgeon and care team will let you know which activities to avoid and what to wear after breast reduction surgery.
In general, you'll want to avoid heavy lifting or straining until your surgeon tells you that you can return to this type of activity. Some individuals take one to two weeks off from work to allow for a full recovery. Talk to your surgeon about when you can resume exercise or other strenuous actions. Every body is different, and we want to make sure that yours is given the time it needs to heal.
Breast reduction surgery results
Your breasts should be fully healed within two to three months. However, many individuals report a near immediate relief from the neck and shoulder pain they experienced before their breast reduction. In addition, having smaller, lighter breasts gave them a renewed sense of self-confidence and increased freedom to do and wear what they want.
Your surgeon and care team will check in with you throughout the healing process and are always available to answer any of your concerns, such as questions about safe pain management methods and how to treat breast reduction scars.
For an example of breast reduction surgery results performed by Penn plastic surgeons, see our Before and After Photo Gallery.
Breast reduction FAQs
Want to learn more? Read our frequently asked questions about breast reduction surgery at Penn Cosmetic Surgery.
Schedule a breast reduction consultation
We're happy to see you at one of our locations in Philadelphia, the Main Line or Cherry Hill to answer your questions and to see if breast reduction surgery is right for you.
To make an appointment, please fill out our online form or call us at 610-902-1828.
Breast Reduction Stories
Lynn's Story
Lynn spent years buying clothes larger than she needed in order to accommodate her large breasts. Finally, she decided 'enough was enough', and it was time for a breast reduction.
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Mahiyah's Story
Mahiyah was already wearing a size 32D bra in seventh grade. At 20 years old, her large breasts were causing her physical pain, and she realized it was time to explore breast reduction surgery.
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Samantha's Story
The effects of Samantha's large breasts weren't just physical; her psychological and emotional health also suffered. Read about Samantha's journey to breast reduction surgery and a more confident self.
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