Breast Reduction
What is a Breast Reduction
A breast reduction, also known as a reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at reducing the size and weight of large, heavy breasts. The surgery involves removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to achieve a breast size that is more proportionate to the body and to alleviate discomfort associated with overly large breasts. Nipples and areolas that have stretched or enlarged can be reduced in size.
Breast Reduction Consultation
If you are considering a breast reduction in Boston, the first step is a confidential consultation with Dr. Bartlett. At this time, he will perform a medical evaluation and listen carefully to understand your goals. He will answer questions about the benefits and risks of breast reduction surgery, describe the treatment process, and may discuss alternative treatment options.
Dr. Bartlett will create and personalize your surgical plan. He will give you an idea of what to expect so that you can prepare for your procedure.
Breast Reduction Procedure – What to expect
Dr. Bartlett will make incisions on the breasts to remove excess skin, fat and breast tissue. The nipple and areola are repositioned higher within the chest and the incisions are closed with sutures. Nipples and areola that have stretched and enlarged can also be reduced in size. Dr. Bartlett does not typically use drains. Common incision patterns include:
- Vertically down from the areola to the breast crease (sometimes referred to as the lollipop incision).
- Horizontally along the breast crease (sometimes referred to as an anchor incision or inverted-T).
General anesthesia is recommended for this procedure.
3 to 4 hours. The exact duration of surgery will depend on the treatment plan, techniques used, and if there are other procedures performed during your procedure.
Breast reduction surgeries are performed in our AAAASF certified office operating room in the Boston, Massachusetts, area.
Breast Reduction and Recovery
Dr. Bartlett and his staff will review details of the recovery process, providing instructions and prescription medications prior to surgery.
A friend or family member is recommended to drive you home from surgery and be available to help with your recovery during the first 24 to 48 hours.
After surgery, you will remain in a surgical bra. Showering is permitted beginning at 48 hours, however you are recommended to remain in a supportive sports bra day and night for six weeks.
Patients typically take 1 week off from work but feel well within a few days. Discomfort is often mild. Pain medication is prescribed and typically used for 2 or 3 days after surgery. Swelling and bruising can last for 1 to 2 weeks. Numbness and firmness may persist for months but do not affect appearance. Light exercise is permitted beginning at 2 weeks after surgery. Heavy, strenuous exercise may resume after 6 weeks.
It may take at least three months for the breast contour to settle. Scars have often faded to a thin line by one year.
"Everyone that’s ever known me has called me Mrs. Just So. In other words, I am very particular and also a perfectionist in all areas. I couldn’t have picked a better plastic surgeon. My husband and I met Dr. Bartlett and didn’t even feel that we had to get a second opinion. No one can even tell that I had this done. People will say, “Oh, I love your haircut, you look so good,” and then other people I tell will say, “Oh my god, I want his number.” They say they’ve never seen anyone look so natural. Dr. Bartlett is a perfectionist and very tedious and is an artist. He listens and cares and even called me over the weekend to see how I was doing. His entire staff is very friendly and knowledgeable as well. I would recommend Dr. Bartlett to anyone!"
Cost
Cost is dependent on factors such as the time it takes to perform the surgery, the type of anesthesia used, and the techniques utilized.
An estimate of the cost can be provided over the phone by the front desk administrator. After your consultation with Dr. Bartlett a specific, detailed quote will be provided.
Schedule a consultation
Contact our office to schedule a consultation regarding a breast reduction in Boston with Dr. Richard A. Bartlett. He can let you know if surgery is the best option for you and can provide you with outstanding results from your procedure.
Need More Help?
Check out these related procedures
Breast Lift
This breast procedure is highly recommended for patients with sagging breasts. It improves the tone and firmness of the breasts by removing excess skin and resizing/repositioning the nipples.
Breast Asymmetry
Many women have size and shape differences between their breasts. This can be solved by reducing the larger breast, increasing the size of the smaller breast.