Breast reduction, also known as a reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that intends to reduce the size of a woman’s breasts. (1) Women with overly large breasts can often suffer from a variety of issues, such as chronic physical discomfort due to the weight of their breasts. Excessively large breasts can also make physical activities more difficult and can even lead to rashes. If you are suffering from any of these concerns, you may be an ideal candidate for breast reduction.
When it comes to breast procedures such as breast reduction, Joseph Michaels, MD, and his staff are the best in the Northeast, helping women from Rockville, Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Washington, D.C. overcome the effects associated with overly large breasts. If you are interested in reducing the size of your breasts, please contact either of our two conveniently located offices online to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Michaels, or give us a call:
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Before and After Photos
About Breast Reduction
A breast reduction is a procedure that reduces excess tissue in the breasts. This procedure can also be used to correct asymmetry and will ultimately make the breasts smaller in size. Large breasts can be uncomfortable and cause physical pain. Breast reduction can reduce physical discomfort and help you achieve a more proportional figure.
Several different incision techniques can be utilized during a breast reduction procedure. The techniques adopted by Dr. Michaels are designed to minimize visible scarring, a major concern for many women who seek out breast procedures. The incision method utilized will depend on the amount of tissue the patient wishes to reduce. The two most commonly performed incision techniques include:
Anchor Incision
Anchor incisions are considered the traditional approach to breast reduction, and this method is often performed on patients requiring a significant breast reduction and elevation of the nipple-areolar complex. This technique involves the use of a horizontal incision, positioned beneath the natural breast crease, or inframammary fold, a vertical incision that extends down the breast from the bottom of the nipple, and a periareolar incision that runs along the outside edge of the areola, creating an “anchor” pattern. (1)
Lollipop Incision
Patients who require less extensive reductions and minimal elevation of the nipple-areolar complex may be suitable candidates for a modified “short-scar,” or vertical, breast reduction approach, also sometimes referred to as a “lollipop” pattern. (2) This procedure reduces the size of the breasts with a periareolar incision that runs along the perimeter of the nipple-areolar complex, as well as a vertical incision that extends downward to the breast crease.
Benefits of Breast Reduction
Breast reduction procedures offer ample benefits for patients who seek them. Some of these benefits might include:
- Relief from chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain
- Improved posture
- Ability to engage in physical activities without discomfort
- Enhanced self-confidence and body image
- Reduction in skin irritation and rashes beneath the breasts
It is no secret that there are many benefits to pursuing breast reduction if you are suffering from the various effects associated with having excessively large breasts. Breast reductions can give patients a sense of freedom by relieving symptoms such as chronic pain, ultimately leading to many patients experiencing a boost in confidence and overall improvements in quality of life.
Ideal Candidates
Patients seek breast reduction due to various reasons, therefore, this procedure appeals to a wide range of potential candidates. For the most part, patients who seek breast reductions include:
- Patients with excessively large breasts
- Women with breasts disproportionate to their body frame
- Those with skin irritation beneath the breast crease
- Individuals whose breast size limits physical activity
- Non-smokers or those willing to quit using nicotine
- Patients in good overall health
Your eligibility for breast reduction will be determined during your personal consultation with Dr. Michaels. Some patients might be better suited for a different procedure, or perhaps could benefit from additional procedures alongside their breast reduction.
To schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Michaels and his team, contact us online or give us a call at one of our two locations:
Personal Consultation
During your personal consultation, Dr. Michaels will evaluate your medical history, breast anatomy, and aesthetic goals as well as discuss the potential benefits and risks of the procedure, ensuring that patients have realistic expectations. This consultation is a great time for you to ask questions to gain a thorough understanding of the procedure. Once Dr. Michaels feels that he has a good understanding of you and your goals, he will work to create a customized treatment plan that is designed specifically to help you reach your goals. Ultimately, this consultation will serve as an opportunity for both you and Dr. Michaels to gain as much information about each other to ensure a successful outcome.
To schedule this personal consultation, contact us online or give us a call at one of our two locations:
Preparation
Preparation for a breast reduction involves several key steps, and Dr. Michaels will provide you with detailed instructions to ensure a successful procedure. Patients may need to undergo medical evaluations to ensure they are fit for their procedure. For patients who smoke, it is important to stop the use of nicotine well in advance of the procedure to promote better healing. Dr. Michaels might advise you to refrain from using certain medications and supplements that can increase bleeding risk should be avoided. Because this is a surgical procedure, you are advised to make transportation arrangements as well as arrange for at-home care, as you will require assistance during the initial recovery period.
Procedure
Breast reductions are typically performed under general anesthesia, and often last between two to four hours. Dr. Michaels utilizes different incision patterns based on the extent of reduction required and the patient’s breast anatomy:
- Anchor Incision: Suitable for significant reductions, this technique involves three incisions: around the areola, vertically from the areola to the breast crease, and horizontally along the breast fold.
- Lollipop Incision: Ideal for moderate reductions, this method includes an incision around the areola and a vertical incision down to the breast crease, resembling the shape of a lollipop.
After making the incisions, Dr. Michaels removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin. He then reshapes the remaining breast tissue and repositions the nipple-areola complex to achieve a natural-looking, uplifted appearance. The incisions are meticulously closed with sutures, and the breasts are dressed with bandages, and a surgical bra is provided to support healing.
Recovery
Every procedure is different, meaning the recovery process will vary for each individual depending on their unique anatomy and the incision techniques used. Generally speaking, patients can expect to return to work within four to seven days, assuming their job is not physically demanding. Patients can expect to resume light activities and exercise within a week, and can return to more strenuous activities in 2-3 weeks or when otherwise noted by Dr. Michaels. Overall, the recovery period typically lasts 8-12 weeks, and Dr. Michaels will provide detailed postoperative instructions to help guide you through the process.
Results
The results of a breast reduction procedure are immediately noticeable, with patients experiencing relief from physical discomfort and achieving a breast size more proportionate to their bodies. As swelling subsides over the following weeks, the final shape and position of the breasts will become more apparent. Any scarring from the incisions will fade over time and can easily be hidden.
Corresponding Procedures
Patients undergoing breast reduction may also consider additional procedures to enhance their overall body contour:
- Breast Lift (Mastopexy): Often performed in conjunction with breast reductions to elevate and firm the breasts, this procedure addresses sagging tissue and can be performed to improve the shape of the breasts.
- Liposuction: This procedure targets excess fat deposits in various areas of the body to achieve a more harmonious and contoured figure.
- Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): Tummy tucks can be performed to remove excess abdominal skin and tighten the underlying muscles, leaving each patient with a flatter, smoother, and more defined waist.
To learn more about the additional procedures offered, please read Dr. Michaels’ blog!
Cost of Breast Reduction in Maryland
The cost of a breast reduction can vary based on factors such as the complexity of the procedure, anesthesia fees, facility costs, and more. Dr. Michaels’ office will provide detailed cost information during your consultation and is happy to discuss financing options with those who qualify. In some cases, health insurance may cover breast reductions if it is deemed medically necessary due to physical discomfort or health issues related to large breasts. Patients are encouraged to check with their insurance providers regarding coverage criteria.
FAQ
How painful is breast reduction surgery?
While some discomfort is expected post-surgery, pain is typically manageable with prescribed medications. Most patients report significant relief from pre-existing discomfort shortly after the procedure.
Will I have visible scars after the surgery?
Scarring is an inevitable part of any surgical procedure. However, Dr. Michaels employs advanced techniques to minimize scarring, and most scars fade significantly over time.
Will breast reduction impact my ability to breastfeed?
Although there is a risk that breast reduction will impact your ability to breastfeed in the future, this risk is considered minimal, especially when your treatment is performed by a trained professional such as Dr. Michaels. Are the results of breast reduction permanent? In most cases, the results of breast reduction are permanent. However, factors such as significant weight gain, pregnancy, or hormonal changes can cause breast tissue to enlarge again over time. Maintaining a stable weight can help preserve your results.
References
- Sachs D, Szymanski KD. Breast Reduction. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441974/
- Toomey AE, Cape JD. Mastopexy (Breast Lift). Nih.gov. Published December 11, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK610682/
