What is a Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction surgery is one of the most satisfying procedures for women with excessively large breasts who complain of neck, shoulder, or back pain.

When large breasts interfere with a woman’s quality of life, this procedure may be covered by your insurance company if certain criteria are met.

Patients who undergo breast reductions are among the happiest of all plastic surgery patients.

As both a woman and a plastic surgeon, Dr. Parcells is distinctively qualified to address your concerns and tailor her technique to achieve your desired results.

Common Questions:

1. WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR THIS PROCEDURE?

A breast reduction procedure is great for women with large breasts that cause neck, back, and shoulder pain and discomfort. Women who benefit from this surgery often complain of difficulty with regular activities and exercise as well as issues finding clothing that fits properly and bra strap grooving.

Some women experience rashes under their breasts from their excessive weight and position. A reduction in breast size is often described as life-changing for women who have been living with excessively large breasts for many years.

2. HOW MUCH BREAST TISSUE IS REMOVED?

The amount of glandular tissue removed is made between you and Dr. Parcells and is based on your anatomy and your desired results. Some insurance companies require a certain amount of breast tissue to be removed.

3. HOW LONG DOES THE SURGERY TAKE? HOW LONG IS THE RECOVERY?

On average, this surgery can take 4-5 hours.

Most patients elect to have a numbing block in the recovery room which greatly improves discomfort and allows you to go home the same day as your surgery.

Most women experience mild to moderate discomfort for several days following surgery and are back to their activities of daily living by about a week. Most patients experience immediate relief of back, shoulder, and neck pain with their new, smaller breasts.

Physical activity at the gym can resume around 4-6 weeks. Patients are in special bras to assist in shaping for several weeks after the procedure.

Most women return to work in about 5 days – 1 week.

4. WHERE IS THE SCAR?

For most patients, there is a scar around your nipple and areola and another vertical scar extending down from the nipple to the bottom of the breasts.

In some patients, an additional scar is placed within the breast crease (“anchor” lift) if necessary for additional shaping.

5. What is the difference between a breast reduction and a breast lift (mastopexy)?

A breast reduction involves removal of some breast gland and skin. This procedure is both a functional surgery (alleviating back and shoulder pain) and a cosmetic surgery as it results in breasts with a more youthful shape.

A mastopexy, or breast lift, is simply a breast re-shaping procedure that does not involve removal of glandular tissue. The only tissue removed is skin.

6. How much does A Breast REDUCTION Procedure cost?

Each patient is different, and your needs are unique.

The cost of this procedure will depend on the conversation between you and Dr. Parcells during your one-on-one consultation.

After reviewing your medical history and discussing your desired goals, Dr. Parcells will perform a physical exam to evaluate your breasts as well as skin tone, laxity, nipple position. She will then provide her expert advice and discuss your options to achieve your desired outcome. She will also address all risks and benefits of the procedures you are interested in.

At the end of your consultation with Dr. Parcells, you will meet with our surgical coordinator who will address the logistics and finances of the procedure you are best suited for.

Dr. Parcells is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.