With so many women opting for breast augmentations to increase their bust size, why are others choosing to reduce their breast size?

Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammoplasty, is a sought-after solution for women with overly large breasts, addressing both physical discomfort and cosmetic concerns that are significantly impacting their quality of life.

Undoubtedly, excessively large breasts can pose health risks for women. If you have overly large breasts and experience any of the following issues, you may benefit from a breast reduction:

• Chronic back, shoulder, and neck pain
• Skin rashes
• Hygiene challenges due to heavy, hanging breasts
• Limited clothing options
• Permanent shoulder grooves from bra straps
• Interference with physical activity

Now that you understand the reasons behind breast reduction surgery, let’s dive into the essential details of the procedure, the benefits, and more.

Breast Reduction Surgery: What You Need to Know

A breast reduction will reduce and reshape breasts that are too large for one’s frame. The surgical goal is to create smaller and perkier breasts that fit a person’s frame.

If you are a candidate for breast reduction surgery, here is what a typical breast reduction procedure entails at our Chicagoland practice:

1. About The Surgery:
   1. Performed under general anesthesia by Dr. Samir Shah in a state-of-the-art, fully accredited surgical suite, the surgery typically takes 3 to 4 hours.
   2. Incisions are made in a pattern similar to an anchor or inverted keyhole, encompassing the nipple-areolar complex and extending vertically below the nipple and along the breast fold.
   3. Excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are removed through these incisions.
   4. Some scarring is expected due to the incisions, but it generally fades over time.
2. Contour and Shape:
   1. The nipple-areolar complex may be repositioned to achieve a natural-looking breast shape and contour.
   2. Areolas (the pigmented area around the nipple) will be smaller.
3. Stability and Support:
   1. Dr. Shah may use absorbable mesh as an internal sling or “internal bra” to maintain stability over time and reduce the risk of “bottoming out.”
4. Recovery:
   1. Patients wear a sports bra for support during the post-op period.
   2. The typical recovery time after breast reduction is approximately 4 to 6 weeks.
   3. Swelling may persist for up to 3 months.

What Are The Benefits Of Breast Reduction Surgery?

There are several benefits for individuals who undergo breast reduction surgery. Breast reduction surgery eliminates excess fat, breast tissue, and skin, providing relief from chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain caused by the weight of excessively large breasts. Moreover, it can enhance self-image by creating a more balanced and proportionate silhouette, while also addressing skin-related concerns. Smaller breasts also contribute to greater comfort during physical activities and exercise.

Dr. Shah has observed that his breast reduction patients are some of his happiest patients. They experience exceptional satisfaction, and after the procedure enjoy newfound freedom in their daily activities. Some patients have even stated that they discovered the ability to do things they didn’t know they were missing.

How Can You Minimize Scarring After Breast Reduction?

After breast reduction surgery, scarring is inevitable, but it usually diminishes over time. During the initial three weeks, specialized steri-strip tapes aid in incision healing and reduce swelling or fluid buildup. Subsequently, you should apply a combination of Vitamin E oil and silicone-based scar gel. It typically takes 6-9 months for scars to fully mature. If necessary, Dr. Shah can use steroids or lasers to enhance scar healing.

Are Other Procedures Done At The Time Of Breast Reduction?

Generally, a breast reduction is a stand-alone procedure. However, sometimes Dr. Shah will perform liposuction of the armpit area to help sculpt and frame the lateral side of the breast to improve the appearance. In few instances, Dr. Samir Shah may transfer fat to the upper part of the breast or combine it with other body procedures.

When Is It Appropriate For Teens To Have A Breast Reduction?

Often times, young women develop mammary hypertrophy during puberty leading to similar issues of pain and discomfort as adults experience with large breasts. At A New You Plastic Surgery and Laser Center, we find that the optimal age for breast reduction surgery depends not only on your daughter’s breast and body development, but also their emotional maturity.

Typically, it is advisable for teenage girls to wait until their breasts have fully developed before considering breast reduction, which often occurs around age 18. If your teenager is struggling with ongoing issues due to their excessively large breasts, consider booking a consultation at A New You Plastic Surgery & Laser Center. We’ll evaluate their individual factors and recommend the optimal timing for surgery.

In certain cases, liposuction alone may be performed to reduce breast weight and postpone incisions until a later stage in life.

If You Have A Reduction Now, Will You Be Able To Have One In The Future?

Yes, it is possible to have a repeat reduction. Often, breasts may become heavier in the lower pole, or weight gain might necessitate further reduction. Typically, the revision procedure employs an alternative technique to remove excess weight from the breast’s lower portion, with minimal adjustments needed for nipple position. Drains are generally avoided.

Contact A New You Plastic Surgery and Laser Center

Are you interested in learning more about cosmetic surgery? Do you want to know if you are a candidate? If so, contact A New You Plastic Surgery and Laser Center. Our offices in Orland Park and Oak Lawn, IL serve patients all over the Chicagoland area and beyond. Call us at 708.614.6600 today!

Do you live in or around Orland Park or Oak Lawn and are ready for a cosmetic consultation?
Request a Consultation

Have More Questions About Breast Surgery?

Read more about the cosmetic surgical treatments offered by Dr. Samir Shah and Dr. Rajendra Shah at A New You Plastic Surgery and Laser Center:

• Do I Need Implants With My Breast Lift?
• What Can I Expect At My Breast Augmentation Consultation?
• Is Fat Grafting A Good Option To Enhance Breasts?
• Saline vs. Silicone Breast Implants
• Are You Tired Of Your Sagging Breasts? The Internal Bra May Be The Answer!