What is Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction is a procedure done to remove excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin from the breasts. This can help to create a more proportionate silhouette, as well as correct discomfort caused by overly large breasts.


Before & After


Who is a Good Candidate?

Breast reduction candidates are those who are experiencing problems due to too-large-breasts, including back pain, neck aches, skin irritation under the breasts, or grooves in their shoulders due to bra straps. Individuals should be healthy, non-smokers to be considered for this procedure. A consultation with Dr. Howland can help to decide if this procedure is right for you.

What to Expect

The breast reduction procedure is done through incisions on the breasts to remove excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin. Liposuction may be used along with excision to remove excess fat from the breasts. The anchor incision is the most common incision pattern used for breast reduction surgery. This incision is created along the areolar border, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally across the breast fold. Excess skin and fat will be removed, and skin is brought together to reshape the breast.

Results

Following breast reduction surgery, patients will need to wear a compression garment to help control swelling. Swelling, redness, and discomfort are expected and can be controlled with pain medication. It is important to follow the specific recovery instructions given to you by Dr. Howland to ensure optimal results. The exact downtime needed will differ from patient to patient, and can be discussed during your consultation.

If you are considering breast reduction surgery in the Salt Lake City or Draper, UT area, contact our office today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Howland.

FAQs About Breast Reduction

Can breast grow back after reduction?

Its possible for the breasts to grow back with life changes like pregnancy, weight gain, and hormone changes. For this reason, its important to discuss your future plans and lifestyle habits with Dr. Howland before surgery.

Can you drink alcohol after breast reduction?

You should avoid alcohol for the duration of your recovery since alcohol can affect your bodys ability to heal.

Do you lose feeling in your nipples after breast reduction?

Its possible to have some temporary loss of sensation after breast reduction, especially if you opt for certain incision patterns. There is a risk of long-term sensation loss, but its minimal.

Do you lose weight after breast reduction?

You may notice a small amount of weight loss after breast reduction due to the amount of tissue removed. However, its rarely noticeable.

How can I reduce my cup size?

A breast reduction is one of the best ways to reduce the size of the breasts.

How dangerous is breast reduction surgery?

There are risks that come with any surgery, including breast reduction. The best way to mitigate the risks is by partnering with a board-certified plastic surgeon.

How do breast reductions work?

Breast reduction works by removing excess breast tissue and fat using a surgical incision. Sometimes, its paired with liposuction for additional results.

How do I know if I need a breast reduction?

Patients who experience symptoms like back pain, chafing, and overall discomfort from large, heavy breasts can benefit most from a breast reduction.

How long does it take for swelling to go down after breast reduction?

Most swelling occurs within the first few days after your surgery, but it can take a few weeks to a month for residual swelling to go down.

How long does it take to recover from a breast reduction?

Most patients are able to return to work or school after one to two weeks, depending on your rate of healing and physical demands.

How many cup sizes can you go down with breast reduction?

Its difficult to judge specific cup sizes when it comes to breast surgery, but most patients see a reduction of around one cup size with breast reduction.

How much do breast reductions cost?

According to statistics gathered by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons in 2020, breast reduction can cost around $5,913. However, breast reduction may be covered by insurance depending on your specific circumstances.

What causes breast reduction?

Most patients opt for breast reduction because they experience a reduced quality of life from large breasts.

What happens after breast reduction?

After breast reduction, you can expect some discomfort, swelling, and tiredness as you recover. You may be tasked with managing drains placed around your incisions to collect fluid.

When can I sleep without a bra after breast reduction?

Its important to wear a supportive bra for the duration of your recovery in order to support your breasts and relieve pressure from your incisions. You may be able to stop wearing it after around one month, based on Dr. Howlands recommendations.

When can I wear a normal bra after breast reduction?

You should avoid wearing an underwire bra for at least one month after your breast reduction since wires can cause irritation on your incisions. Dr. Howland can give you the best idea of when you can return to wearing normal bras after surgery.

Does breast size affect weight?

Breast size can affect your weight in minor ways, depending on how large your breasts are. If your frame is small, you may experience a more noticeable reduction in your weight after surgery, but breast reduction should not be considered a weight loss surgery.

Does insurance pay for breast reduction?

Breast reduction can be covered by insurance in some instances, so we encourage each patient to check with their providers ahead of their consultation.

Does weight gain increase breast size?

In many cases, gaining weight can cause an increase in the fatty tissue around the breasts, contributing to an overall larger size.

Has anyone had a second breast reduction?

Its not uncommon to have more than one breast reduction, especially after life changes like pregnancy, weight gain, or hormone changes.

How do you know when you need a breast reduction?

If you experience symptoms like back pain, chafing, or difficulty being active, you can likely benefit from a breast reduction procedure.

How is the recovery from breast reduction?

After breast reduction, most patients are able to return to work or school within two weeks, with a full recovery after one month. Most patients report it to be very tolerable and worthwhile.

How long do stitches stay in after breast reduction?

Depending on your unique surgical procedure, stitches are generally removed within one week of surgery.

How long does it take breast reduction to heal?

Although your incisions should be mostly healed within one to two weeks, it can take one to two months to make a full recovery.

How much is 500 grams breast reduction?

In terms of breast reduction, 500 grams would equal around 2-3 cup sizes of tissue.

How painful is a breast reduction?

Most patients find breast reduction to be very tolerable when taking their prescribed medications according to instructions. Most discomfort is felt within the first few days after surgery.

Is it OK to wear a sports bra after breast reduction?

Yes - its important to wear a supportive sports bra to keep your breasts compressed and avoid pressure on your incisions.

Is it worth getting a breast reduction?

Breast reduction has one of the highest rates of patient satisfaction out of any plastic surgery procedure due to its life-changing results. So, many patients find breast reduction to be very much worth it.

Why do breasts grow back after a reduction?

Breasts can change in size for a number of reasons, including pregnancy, hormone changes, and weight gain.

Why do my breasts hurt and feel heavy?

Many women with large, heavy breasts experience symptoms like discomfort, chafing, and overall difficulty being mobile. For this reason, a breast reduction can achieve life-changing results.