- Alleviates back, neck and shoulder pain
- Improves posture and overall body balance
- Reduces discomfort during physical activity
- Eases chronic skin irritation beneath the breasts
- Allows for a wider range of clothing options
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Breast Reduction
Relieve Physical Discomfort and Reshape Your Breasts in Concord, CA
Do you feel that your large breasts affect your daily life? Do you have back, neck, or shoulder pain? Large breasts can be a blessing for some and a curse for others.
When a woman sees her breasts as a hindrance that negatively affects her self-esteem, her health, or her quality of life, breast reduction surgery may be the best solution.
East Bay plastic surgeon Dr. Eric Mariotti performs breast reduction surgery for women from Walnut Creek and the surrounding areas who want to enjoy their best life with a more proportionate figure.
Benefits
Surgical Notes
Anesthesia: General
Procedure Length: 2-3 hours
Time Off Work: 2-3 weeks
Final Results: 3-6 months
Related Procedures: Breast Lift, Post-Weight Loss Surgery, Mommy Makeover
What Is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin to create a smaller, more proportionate breast size. This procedure can help reduce strain on your neck, shoulders and back while improving balance with the rest of your frame. In many cases, the nipple and areola are repositioned or reduced during this surgery, and the breasts may be lifted. We customize every surgery to match your body shape and personal goals.
What Techniques Are Used in Breast Reduction Surgery?
Each breast reduction technique is selected based on your anatomy, the amount of tissue being removed, and your aesthetic goals. During your consultation, we’ll talk through which option may be the best fit for you.
Book NowAnchor Pattern
This technique uses three incisions: one around the areola, one vertically down to the breast crease and one along the fold beneath the breast. It’s usually used for patients with larger breasts or those requiring more extensive reshaping. The anchor pattern allows for maximum tissue removal and precise contouring.
Vertical (Lollipop) Incision
The vertical technique involves two incisions, including one around the areola and another running vertically down to the breast fold. It’s often used when a moderate amount of volume needs to be removed. This method can reshape the breast while limiting the number of incisions compared to the anchor technique.
Liposuction-Assisted Reduction
In some cases, liposuction may be used alone or in combination with traditional incisions to reduce breast volume. This method is most suitable when there is more fatty tissue than dense glandular tissue. It can also help refine the outer areas of the breast for a smoother contour.
“Dr. Mariotti is an artist. I had a breast reduction and lift without implants. He listened carefully to what I wanted, and the results and recovery were better than expected. I was out golfing 18 holes after 3 weeks!”
- Shauna C.
What to Expect From Your Breast Reduction Surgery
Book NowPreparing for Breast Reduction
Before your breast reduction surgery, we’ll review your medical history, perform a physical exam and may request imaging. You’ll receive specific instructions on medications to stop temporarily, such as blood thinners or certain supplements. It’s important to arrange for time off work and secure help at home for the first few days after surgery. We also recommend preparing a recovery space with essentials like loose clothing, extra pillows, entertainment and other easy-to-reach items. Following these steps can help you feel more comfortable and ready for your procedure.
During Your Breast Reduction
During breast reduction surgery, Dr. Mariotti not only removes excess tissue and fat from the breast but also sculpts the breast into a smaller, perkier shape. The technique used is similar to a breast lift. Once you’re under general anesthesia, the incisions are made according to the surgical plan discussed during your consultation. Excess glandular tissue, fat and skin are carefully removed, and the remaining breast structure is reshaped for improved symmetry and proportion. If needed, the nipple and areola are repositioned higher on the breast mound while preserving their blood supply. Depending on your breast size and shape, liposuction can be performed simultaneously on the outer areas of the chest and under the armpits. This helps reduce the bulging areas that commonly accompany larger breasts.
Breast reductions are performed at Premier Surgery Center, located conveniently in Concord near Walnut Creek and Danville. Breast reduction patients are typically discharged an hour or two after surgery with some light bandaging to cover their incisions.
After Your Breast Reduction
Depending on your job, it is often possible to return to work within just 2 to 3 weeks. In most instances, you can resume normal activities, including some mild exercise, after 3 to 5 weeks. You may continue to experience some mild, periodic discomfort during this time, but this is normal and can be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication. Most women heal well after breast reduction, and the results can be seen and felt right after surgery.
What to Expect During Breast Reduction Recovery
During breast reduction recovery, we recommend sleeping on your back with your upper body slightly elevated to reduce swelling and pressure on the chest. A surgical bra or compression garment should be worn around the clock as directed to support the healing tissues and minimize fluid buildup. It’s helpful to avoid lifting anything over 10 pounds or raising your arms above shoulder height for the first few weeks. You’ll also want to avoid underwire bras until we confirm the area has healed enough to tolerate regular support. Keeping your incisions clean and dry, attending follow-up appointments and monitoring for any changes are all part of a smooth recovery process.
The Best Candidates for Breast Reduction
The women who see the best results from breast reduction surgery typically experience physical or emotional discomfort as a result of their overly large breast size. Dr. Mariotti will work with you during your consultation visits to find the appropriate new breast size for your body proportions and personal aesthetic.
Breast reduction may be appropriate for adults of all ages. Dr. Mariotti will help determine whether now is the right time for your surgery.
You might be a candidate if:
- You experience chronic pain due to heavy breasts
- Your breasts limit your physical activity or cause discomfort when exercising
- You have persistent skin rashes or irritation under your breasts
- Your breasts appear disproportionate to the rest of your body
- You feel frustrated with the way clothing fits
- You’re in good health and do not smoke
“I highly recommend a visit to Dr. Mariotti and his staff. Throughout the entire process, both him and his staff made me feel very comfortable. The office staff are very friendly and professional, and the OR nurse, anesthesiologist, and other staff are very good at explaining what will be taking place during surgery, and it felt like they all truly cared about my well-being. I am at 2 weeks post-op, and I can already say I am very happy with my results. (For reference, I had a breast reduction) If you or someone you know is looking to get work done, I highly recommend Dr. Mariotti!”
- Johana
Combining Breast Reduction Surgery With Other Procedures
In some cases, combining breast reduction with other surgeries can streamline your recovery and enhance your overall results. These are a few common procedures that may be performed at the same time:
- Breast Reduction and Lift: While virtually every breast reduction includes a lifting effect, some patients with pronounced sagging may benefit from more advanced lift techniques to refine breast shape and improve nipple placement.
- Mommy Makeover: This combination procedure typically includes breast surgery, liposuction and a tummy tuck to address multiple areas affected by pregnancy and childbirth in a single surgical session.
- Tummy Tuck: Pairing a tummy tuck with breast reduction can address both the upper and lower body by tightening abdominal muscles, removing loose skin and improving overall body contour.
- Liposuction: Liposuction can be used alongside breast reduction to target areas such as the upper back, flanks or bra line bulges, helping to create a smoother and more proportional silhouette.
- Arm Lift or Thigh Lift: For patients experiencing skin laxity in other areas, combining breast reduction with an arm or thigh lift can reduce overall downtime and improve contour in multiple regions at once.
FAQS
Will I Still Be Able to Breastfeed After Breast Reduction Surgery?
There are always risks associated with any breast surgery as far as maintaining your ability to nurse successfully afterward. If breastfeeding is an important consideration for you, be sure to discuss your concerns with Dr. Mariotti during your consultation.
Where Will My Incisions Be Placed and How Many Incisions Will I Need?
Dr. Mariotti offers a few different options for incision placement during breast reduction, depending on the level of correction desired. The majority of women benefit most from the traditional anchor-shaped incision, which gives Dr. Mariotti the most access to the breast for an optimum outcome.
How Will My Scars Look After Breast Reduction Surgery?
Scars can be unpredictable, as everyone’s skin heals differently, but Dr. Mariotti utilizes every tool and technique in his power to minimize the visibility of his incisions. Most women agree that the scars are nothing compared to having better proportions between their breasts and body, and an improved physical and emotional quality of life.
How Long Will My Breast Reduction Results Last?
Although future pregnancy weight gain could cause your breasts to change size again in the future, the results of breast reduction surgery should be long-lasting.
How Much Does a Breast Reduction Cost?
The average cost of a breast reduction in the United States is around $5,500, according to the American Academy of Plastic Surgeons. This number only includes the cost of the surgery itself, however. Other costs, such as operating room and anesthesia fees, may be incurred. Discuss the total costs of your breast augmentation consultation so that you have an idea of what your expenses will be. This is also a good time to discuss payment and financing options if cost is a concern for you.
Does Insurance Cover Breast Reduction?
Some insurance companies may cover all or part of the costs of your breast reduction if it is being performed to reduce neck or shoulder pain or for another medical reason. Contact your insurance company to see if your breast reduction might be covered. Cosmetic breast reductions are unlikely to be covered by insurance.
How Do I Choose the Right Breast Reduction Plastic Surgeon Near Me?
Choose a Board-certified plastic surgeon in your area who has ample experience performing breast reductions and other breast enhancement procedures. Look at before and after photos of women with similar body shapes and types as yours to give you an idea of the level of results you could expect from a particular plastic surgeon. Referrals from friends and family, as well as online reviews from previous clients, can help you choose a reputable plastic surgeon for your breast reduction as well.
Is a Breast Reduction the Best Procedure for Me?
A breast reduction could be an appropriate solution for you if you would like to decrease the size of your breasts, whether for cosmetic or medical reasons or both. Some women find that overly large breasts contribute to back, shoulder, and neck pain. If there are often red, painful indentations where your bra straps sit on your shoulders, you may be a good candidate for breast reduction.
Keep in mind that virtually all breast reduction procedures include a breast lift, so you will get the benefits of both procedures in one. If you are not concerned about the size of your breasts but would like to address drooping or sagging, a breast lift on its own may be appropriate.
How Painful Is a Breast Reduction?
You shouldn’t feel any pain or discomfort during your breast reduction, as this procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Afterward, some tenderness, discomfort, swelling, and bruising are common side effects. These symptoms are usually easily managed with the use of prescription or over-the-counter pain medications and should gradually improve as your body rests and recovers.
How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Breast Reduction?
Most women take around 2 to 3 weeks off work to recover from a breast reduction. You will need to limit physical activity for the first few weeks, gradually introducing your body to light exercise around the three-week mark. It can take up to six weeks before you can resume your regular workout routine.
How Soon Will I See My Breast Reduction Results?
You may notice an immediate difference in the size and shape of your breasts after your breast reduction. However, it can take around 3 to 6 months to get an idea of what your final breast size and shape will look like.
What Are the Breast Reduction Weight Requirements?
There’s no universal weight requirement for breast reduction, but we do consider your overall health and BMI when evaluating surgical candidacy. We may recommend surgery for patients who are at a stable weight to promote longer-lasting results.
Some insurance companies require a certain amount of tissue to be removed from each breast to qualify for coverage. This may be between 200-350 grams per breast or higher, depending on the provider. It is important to check with your insurance provider for details and information about your situation.
What Size Will I Be After Surgery?
The final size after breast reduction depends on your body proportions, the amount of tissue removed, and your personal preferences. We’ll have a detailed conversation about your goals to guide the surgical plan. Photos or examples can help us understand what you’re hoping to achieve. You will end up with a size that feels lighter, more proportionate, and easier to manage day to day.
Start Today!
If large or heavy breasts are causing physical strain or affecting your quality of life, breast reduction can offer relief and give you a more balanced shape. Take the first step toward your dream look and contact us online or call our East Bay office at 925-685-4533 to request a consultation.
