Breast reduction surgery is a procedure that removes fat, glandular tissue and skin from the breasts making them smaller and firmer. Breast reduction surgery can also reduce the size of your areolas and help to restore sagging breasts to give them a more youthful appearance.

Women who have large breasts may experience a variety of problems from the weight and size of their breasts, such as back, neck, shoulder pain, and skin irritation. Breast reduction is usually preformed for relief of these symptoms. The best candidates are those who are mature enough to understand the procedure and have realistic expectations about the results.

There are a variety of surgical techniques used to reduce and reshape the female breast. Dr. Stile’s “minimal scar” breast reduction technique, a modification of the Passot’s “button” mammoplasty technique - learned from Dr. John McCraw, eliminates and conceals much of the unsightly traditional anchor-type scar. Dr. Stile uses a technique that leaves only light, less visible scars around the nipple and in the infra-mammary fold.

Some women choose to have breast reduction in order to satisfy their own desire for a smaller bustline or because of back and neck pain that is sometimes associated with having overdeveloped breasts. Whatever the reason may be, Dr.Stile can help you become more comfortable with your body by making you better-proportioned with smaller breasts.

This information will give you a basic understanding of the breast reduction procedure. However, all patients are unique. An individualized consultation is needed to select the procedure most appropriate for your needs.

Breast reduction (or reduction mammaplasty) is an enhancement procedure that reshapes the breasts in order to make them smaller, lighter, and firmer.  Reduction is accomplished by removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin.  Large breasts can cause physical pain as well as emotional and social anxiety.  Women who take advantage of the breast reduction procedure find that they are able to lead a healthier, more comfortable life, in addition to enjoying a beautiful, more proportionate appearance.

Reasons for Considering a Breast Reduction:

• Back, neck or shoulder pain caused by heavy breasts.
• Sagging breasts produced by their large size.
• Disproportionate body frame attributed to oversized breasts.
• Restriction of physical activity due to the size and weight of the breasts.
• Painful bra strap marks and/or rashes as a result of large breasts.

General Procedure

Techniques for breast reduction vary; however, the most common procedure involves an incision that circles the areola.  From the areola, the incision goes down and follows the natural curve under the breast.  The surgeon then removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin.  Next, the nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher position and held in place by stitches.  Occasionally, liposuction alone can be used to reduce breast size.  The best procedure can be determined during the initial consultation visit.

Of all plastic surgery procedures, breast reduction results in the quickest body-image changes.  Patients are pleased with the elimination of physical pain caused by large breasts as well as a better proportioned body, an enhanced appearance, and better fitting clothes.

Recovery Process

Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and reduce the recovery time.  Bandages are applied immediately following surgery to aid the healing process and to minimize movement of the breasts.  Once the bandages are removed, a specialized surgical bra will need to be worn for several weeks.  Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with surgery.  Any pain can be treated with oral medication.  While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the instructions given after surgery.