Breast Reduction Questions

What is Involved in Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction is performed under general anesthesia. The surgery lasts about two to four hours. During your procedure, our team will remove fat and glandular tissue. The skin will be tightened for firmness and a beautiful shape. Your breasts will be lighter and firmer and in beautiful proportion with the rest of your body.

Will My Breasts Look Normal After Reduction?

Yes. Breast reduction brings the size of your breasts into proportion with the rest of your body. While the main goals of breast reduction are improved comfort and health, it is still an aesthetic procedure, meaning that the end result will be beautiful, shapely breasts. It is not just tissue removal but breast sculpting.

What Can Breast Reduction Do For Me?

Breast reduction can provide immediate relief from the pain and discomfort caused by heavy breasts. Most women who undergo breast reduction surgery are so pleased they wish they had done it much sooner. Breast reduction can relieve problems including:

• Back pain
• Rashes
• Pain from bra straps
• Difficulty breathing
• And more

What Type of Scarring Can I Expect From Breast Reduction?

While there is no guarantee how each patient will scar, most patients are pleasantly surprised with the minimal scarring after their procedure. Scars are typically around the areola and in an inverted T or anchor pattern beneath the breast. Depending on the patient’s skin quality, we can sometimes offer a short scar breast reduction.

Will My Insurance Cover Breast Reduction?

Gawley Plastic Surgery does not accept insurance for breast reduction. There is financing available.

Can I Breastfeed After Breast Reduction?

If you plan to breastfeed, we recommend that you wait to have breast reduction surgery. Breast reduction can interfere with your ability to breastfeed. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can significantly alter the size and shape of your breasts. Some women lose volume after pregnancy and no longer need breast reduction but could benefit from a breast lift instead.

How Old Do I Have to Be to Have Breast Reduction Surgery?

Gawley Plastic Surgery recommends waiting until you are at least 18 years old and your body has finished developing to have any kind of cosmetic surgery. However, in a few rare cases, very large breasts which develop early can cause severe back problems and skeletal deformity. Under those circumstances, breast reduction may be appropriate at a younger age to prevent life-long health problems.

Breast reduction can improve your comfort and your self-esteem. If you suffer from back pain or social embarrassment due to breasts which are too large, please call or email us today to schedule your initial consultation in the Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona area.

Bryan Gawley MD

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon at Gawley Plastic Surgery

Dr. Gawley is one of the premiere plastic surgeons in the Scottsdale and Phoenix area. He specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast, body, and face. Dr. Gawley combines his extensive training and state-of-the-art technology to provide his patients with personalized care and natural results.

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