Breast Reduction Information

Qualifications

In general, good candidates for breast reduction:

  • Are bothered by feeling that their breasts are too large

  • Have breasts that limit their physical activity

  • Have back, neck, and shoulder pain caused by the weight of their breasts

  • Have shoulder indentations from bra straps

  • Have skin irritation beneath the breast crease

  • Are healthy and do not have medical conditions that impair healing

  • Are nonsmokers

  • Have a positive outlook and realistic expectations

Preparation

In preparing for a breast reduction, you may be asked to:

  • Get lab testing or a medical evaluation

  • Take certain medications or adjust your current medications

  • Stop smoking well in advance of surgery

  • Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements because they can increase bleeding and bruising

  • Arrange for a friend or family member to drive you to and from surgery and to stay with you the first night following surgery

Recovery

Patients should avoid lifting for 2 weeks.

Although infrequent, the risks and complications of breast reduction include:

  • Poor scarring

  • Loss of nipple and areola complex

  • Fat necrosis (loss of tissue)

  • Loss of nipple sensation

  • Incision breakdown

  • Asymmetry (unevenness between two sides)

Unlikely Complications