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Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure designed to remove excess breast fat and skin to achieve a breast size proportionate to the body and to alleviate discomfort associated with overly large breasts. Large, dense breasts can cause strain on the upper back and neck muscles causing chronic pain. Additionally, excess moisture formation underneath the breasts can lead to rashes and skin breakdown. Insurance companies will often consider covering breast reduction surgery because of the medical problems large breasts cause. Decreasing the size of your breasts does not mean that your breasts need to look small and deflated. Dr. Hill uses various techniques to greatly improve the overall appearance of your breasts, while also providing relief from the symptoms. Instead of creating a specific cup size, as the breast tissue is reduced, the new breast size is matched to an individual woman's body to create a balanced form.

New Bra

Incision Techniques 

There are several ways to perform a breast reduction procedure. Most commonly, an anchor, or inverted-T, incision is made. An incision is made around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and along the breast crease. This incision pattern allows for removal of excess breast tissue, fat, and skin while reshaping the remaining breast tissue to create a more natural and aesthetically pleasing contour. In addition, the nipple-areola complex is repositioned higher to create a more youthful appearance. ​

Who is a candidate for a breast reduction?

Breast reduction surgery offers significant benefits for those experiencing physical discomfort from the size of their breasts. Patients who experience chronic back, neck, or should pain are candidates for a breast reduction. In addition to patients that develop skin irritation, indentations from bra straps, or have difficulty engaging in physical activity and exercise are also candidates for a breast reduction. ​​By removing excess tissue and reshaping the breasts, the procedure can enhance comfort, physical ability, and self-esteem.

Postoperative Recovery

Recent studies have shown that patients have the same postoperative outcomes with and without the use of drains. Typically, we do not utilize drains which can cause discomfort during the early postoperative recovery phase. It is important, however, to wear a compressive bra for four weeks following surgery to minimize swelling and the possibility of fluid collections. For the first week or two after surgery patients should avoid strenuous activity. At three weeks postoperative, patients may begin some light aerobic activity and gradually increase to normal activities over the next several weeks.

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