About Our Breast Reduction Procedure
Patients who are considering breast reduction surgery are typically looking to diminish symptoms caused by excessively large and heavy breasts. These symptoms commonly include neck, back, and shoulder pain, as well as rashes, inflammation, and other skin issues. Breast reduction surgery has two goals, which include treating the symptoms mentioned above and improving the size, shape, and appearance of the breasts.
What is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that reduces the size and volume of large breasts. The process involves removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin to create a more proportionate breast size that aligns with the patient’s body frame.
Reasons to Get a Breast Reduction:
- Breasts that are too large, heavy, stretched, or pendulous
- Excessive self-consciousness about breasts appearance or size
- Stretched or sagging nipples and areolas
- Noticeable asymmetry in orientation or size
- Back and neck pain
- Skin inflammation or irritation
- Limitations in mobility or physical activity due to the size and weight of breasts
- Breasts that are out of proportion with the rest of a woman’s body
Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Reduction?
You may be an excellent candidate for breast reduction surgery if you experience physical discomfort or emotional distress due to large breasts. Common reasons patients seek this procedure include:
- EChronic back pain, neck pain, or shoulder pain
- EShoulder indentations from bra straps
- ESkin irritation or rashes beneath the breasts
- EDifficulty participating in physical activities
- EChallenges finding well-fitting clothing
- ESelf-consciousness about breast size
Ideal candidates are typically in good overall health, non-smokers (or willing to quit well before surgery), have realistic expectations, and feel their breast size is causing significant physical or emotional issues. An Orange County breast reduction specialist at our institute can thoroughly evaluate your situation during a private breast reduction consultation.
During Your Consultation
At your consultation, we will talk about your reasons for considering breast reduction, your desired breast shape and size, and your concerns about the surgery itself. We’ll answer every question so you feel confident and comfortable with your decision.
To book your consultation, just submit your information here on our website or call 1-800-LOOK-GREAT (800-566-5473).
The Breast Reduction Procedure
The breast reduction surgery itself involves precise surgical techniques tailored to your unique anatomy and desired outcome. Typically, incisions are strategically placed (common patterns include around the areola, vertically down the breast, and sometimes along the breast crease) to allow the surgeon access.
Through these incisions, excess tissue, fat, and skin are removed. The nipple and areola are then carefully repositioned to a higher, more youthful position on the newly shaped breast mound. The remaining skin is tightened to create smaller, firmer, and lifted breasts. This procedure effectively addresses concerns related to significant breast reduction surgery and is performed under general anesthesia by our skilled surgical team.
What To Expect After Breast Reduction Surgery
Initial recovery typically involves several weeks. You can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort immediately following surgery, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. A special surgical bra or compression garment will be required to support the breasts and aid healing.
Most patients can return to light daily activities within one to two weeks. Still, strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for approximately four to six weeks or as advised by your plastic surgeon. Adhering strictly to our comprehensive aftercare instructions is vital for a smooth recovery and minimizing the appearance of breast reduction scars.
Cost of Breast Reduction
The cost of breast reduction surgery can vary depending on several factors, including the specific techniques used, the extent of the reduction required, and anesthesia fees. Because each procedure is customized to the individual, a detailed cost estimate will be provided following your breast reduction consultation at our Orange County practice.
Why Choose Plastic Surgery Institute of California?
At Plastic Surgery Institute of California, we specialize in delivering exceptional outcomes through personalized care plans tailored specifically to each patient’s unique anatomy and lifestyle goals in Orange County, Inland Empire, and the Greater Los Angeles Area.
Our board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Mazin Al-Hakeem and Dr. Eric C. Hu,
bring years of experience performing successful procedures ranging from moderate reshaping cases to complex large-volume reductions—all while prioritizing safety and natural-looking aesthetics at every step!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do breast reduction results last?
The results of breast reduction surgery are generally very long-lasting. However, factors such as significant weight changes, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and the natural aging process can potentially alter the size and shape of your breasts over time. Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve results.
Will breast reduction affect my ability to breastfeed?
While many women can successfully breastfeed after breast reduction, the surgery can sometimes affect milk production or the ability to nurse, as some milk ducts may be altered or removed. If future breastfeeding is important, please discuss this with your surgeon during your consultation.
Can I combine breast reduction with a breast lift?
A breast lift (mastopexy) component is inherently part of a breast reduction procedure. Removing excess tissue and skin and repositioning the nipple and areola higher on the chest wall naturally lift and reshape the breast.
Will I have visible scars after surgery?
All surgeries involve some degree of scarring—but our skilled plastic surgeons use strategic incision placement combined with advanced closure methods and scar management protocols post-op, which help dramatically minimize visibility over time!
Discover the Benefits of Breast Reduction Today
Whether you’re looking into reducing chronic discomfort or simply want better balance and proportion, we’re here to guide and support you throughout the entire journey. Contact the Plastic Surgery Institute of California today to schedule your breast reduction consultation in Orange County.
Dr. Mazin Al-Hakeem
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Our Patients
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