Breast Reduction
Conveniently located to serve the areas of Newport Beach, Upland and Ontario, CA
Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to create a more proportionate breast size. The goal of breast reduction is to reduce breast volume and lift them back up on the chest wall. This procedure is not only about enhancing appearance but also plays a vital role in alleviating physical and emotional discomfort caused by overly large breasts. Many women seek breast reduction to improve their quality of life, boost self-esteem, and enhance body image. (1)
Dr. Azra Ashraf is renowned for her skill in plastic surgery, especially in breast procedures. Additionally, the team of experts at Panache Plastic Surgery stands out in Southern California as leaders in plastic surgery and cosmetic healthcare. If you are interested in a customized breast reduction procedure that will improve your life, then do not hesitate to discuss your goals. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Ashraf today. If you have any questions, please feel free to call one of our Southern California offices today.
Contents
About Breast Reduction
Breast reductions are a popular surgical solution for those experiencing discomfort due to oversized breasts. Some individuals may find that large breasts hinder their daily activities, lead to back and neck pain, or even cause skin rashes under the breast area. Through a breast reduction procedure, patients can achieve more harmony between their breast size and overall body proportions.
Many factors can contribute to larger-than-desired breast sizes, such as genetics, hormonal changes, weight fluctuations, and pregnancy. Breast reductions are incredibly common, with hundreds of thousands of procedures being performed yearly in the United States. (1) The decision to undergo breast reduction is a personal journey often associated with improved physical comfort and an enhancement in psychological well-being, and Dr. Ashraf looks forward to helping each patient improve their life with a personally tailored breast reduction.
Benefits
Undergoing breast reduction offers multiple advantages for one’s health and emotional well-being. At Panache Plastic Surgery, our patients generally experience:
- Improved comfort: Many patients report decreased physical discomfort, including back and neck pain.
- Enhanced physical activity: With smaller breasts, patients can engage in activities they previously avoided, such as running or exercising without discomfort.
- Better posture: Reducing breast weight helps improve posture over time.
- Boosted self-esteem: Many people experience improved self-image and confidence after breast reduction, leading to enhanced social interactions.
- Relief from skin irritations: Patients may find relief from intertrigo, a condition characterized by rashes underneath the breast.
- New clothing options: Women often enjoy a wider variety of clothing options and find it easier to find well-fitting bras and tops.
- Long-lasting results: Once the procedure is completed and healing occurs, results tend to be long-lasting, contributing to continued satisfaction.
- Insurance coverage: Oftentimes, breast reduction procedures are deemed medically necessary, making it eligible for insurance coverage to lessen financial burdens.
Candidates
Ideal candidates for breast reduction are adults who experience discomfort due to large breasts. Adolescents can receive these treatments, but this may require future corrections. (2) Patients who suffer from chronic pain in the back, neck, and/or shoulders and have large, droopy (ptotic) breasts may benefit greatly from this procedure. Individuals should refrain from smoking, be in good general health, and have realistic expectations about the outcome of their procedure. Women planning to avoid future pregnancies may be considered better candidates for this treatment, as breast size may change after childbirth.
Personal Consultation
During your consultation at Panache Plastic Surgery, Dr. Ashraf will review your medical history, analyze your breast anatomy, and address any concerns. It is vital to communicate openly about your goals and expectations for the procedure. Dr. Ashraf will assess if you are a good candidate for the treatment, discuss preferred techniques, evaluate your skin quality, and provide essential insights into post-operative care. Following the assessment, you will receive personalized recommendations for your treatment and preparation instructions tailored to your needs.
Preparation
Preparation is critical for successful breast reduction. Following these guidelines diligently ensures a smooth operation and optimal recovery. Each patient receives instructions that are written specifically for their medical history and procedure goals. As such, these will vary, but most patients will be required to:
- Cease certain medications such as blood thinners and supplements before their treatment
- Quit smoking and avoid nicotine products weeks leading up to your procedure, as these can interfere with healing (if applicable)
- Coordinate transportation home after the procedure, especially if anesthesia is utilized
- Allow for adequate recovery time off work and social commitments
Procedure
Your breast reduction procedure will be planned per your unique anatomy. Depending on the size and shape of your breasts, different techniques may be employed. Breast reductions are generally performed with a patient under general anesthesia, so your procedure will begin with this. Incision placement and technique will vary depending on the goals and necessities of your procedure. Incisions can be made around the nipple and areola, vertically below the nipple (lollipop incision), and along the base of the breast (anchor incision). (3) Once access to underlying tissue is created with an incision, Dr. Ashraf carefully removes excess breast tissue to sculpt proportional, attractive breasts. Because the breasts are one of the main fat deposit sites on the body, many breast reductions will also involve liposuction. After making an incision, Dr. Ashraf will insert a cannula—a thin metal rod with holes in the tip connected to a vacuum pump—and remove fat deposits to reduce breast size. Regardless of the technique selected, every procedure aims to produce symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing results. Once all internal adjustments are completed, your incisions are sutured shut and you can begin your recovery. (3)
Recovery
Patients should plan to take at least one week to recover from their breast reduction procedure. Heavy lifting, swimming, and wearing underwire bras should be avoided for at least six weeks following the procedure. Patients typically feel swelling and discomfort in the initial days, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. You may be required to wear a compression bra to reduce swelling in your breasts, and it is recommended that you sleep on your back with your head and chest elevated with pillows. You can gradually resume normal activities within a couple of weeks but avoid heavy exercises or strenuous activities until cleared by Dr. Ashraf. Regular follow-up appointments will allow Dr. Ashraf to monitor your healing progress. Most patients can return to work and regular activities within a few weeks.
Results
The results of breast reductions are often immediately visible, but the outcome will gradually develop as swelling subsides over several months. Your new breast size will enhance your overall silhouette, contribute to improved posture, and increase your confidence—resulting in a favorable change regarding both aesthetics and comfort.
Corresponding & Complementary Procedures
Breast reduction procedures are almost always combined with a breast lift. A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, removes excess skin from the breasts (like in a breast reduction) but also raises the breasts to a higher position on the chest. This procedure also tightens the muscles below the breasts to provide a stronger muscular foundation, resulting in perkier, healthier, younger-looking breasts. For patients with significantly ptotic and drooping breasts, combining these procedures offers impressive results in their body contour, general health, confidence, and more.
Additionally, many women will choose to include a breast reduction in a mommy makeover treatment. Pregnancy can wreak havoc on the body through weight gain, hormonal shifts, and more, and the breasts are especially susceptible to this. A customized mommy makeover procedure allows women to rejuvenate multiple parts of their body at once through treatments like liposuction, breast reduction, breast lifting, tummy tucks, and more, leaving them with a newer, healthier look.
Cost of Breast Reduction in Southern California
Each procedure performed by Dr. Ashraf is tailored to meet each patient’s specific needs. As such, the total cost of your breast reduction procedure will depend on the scale of the procedure, your appearance goals, anesthesia costs, and a few other factors. When you meet with Dr. Ashraf for a consultation, you will receive a cost estimate that reflects all measures necessary for your treatment. Panache Plastic Surgery also offers financing options for our procedures. Additionally, many breast reduction patients receive insurance coverage for their treatment.
If you have any questions about navigating insurance policies, arranging a payment plan, scheduling a consultation, or anything else, please feel free to call our Newport Beach or Ontario offices and get the information you need.
FAQ
How long does a breast reduction procedure take?
Breast reduction usually takes between 2 to 4 hours, depending on individual circumstances.
Does a breast reduction leave scars?
All surgical procedures involve some level of scarring. However, our skilled surgeons aim to position incisions discreetly, ensuring that scars become less noticeable over time.
When can I return to work after a breast reduction?
Most patients return to work within two weeks, but those with physical job requirements may require additional time off.
Are breast reductions covered by insurance?
Often, breast reduction qualifies as a medically necessary procedure. Speak with your insurance provider to explore coverage options.
Can I breastfeed after a breast reduction?
While many women retain their ability to breastfeed, it is essential to discuss your specific situation with Dr. Ashraf during your consultation.
References
- Sachs D, Szymanski KD. Breast Reduction. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441974/
- Purohit S. Reduction mammoplasty. Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery: Official Publication of the Association of Plastic Surgeons of India. 2008;41(Suppl):S64. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2825129/
- Guridi R, Rodriguez JR. A Step-by-Step Approach to a Successful Cosmetic Breast Reduction. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open. 2019;7(4):e2117. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000002117