Patients who desire a breast reduction may have symptoms caused by the excessive weight of large breasts. Breast reduction can usually solve these problems as well as improve the size and shape of your breasts. Following breast reduction your breasts will be more proportional to the rest of your body, and clothes will fit you better. This may boost an individual's confidence and is often what leads people to seek breast reduction.

Breast reduction can be performed at almost any age, but plastic surgeons usually recommend waiting until the breasts are fully developed. Childbirth and breast-feeding may have significant and unpredictable effects on the size and shape of your breasts. Nevertheless, many women decide to undergo breast reduction before having children and feel that they can address any subsequent changes later.

During the consultation with your surgeon, you will be asked about your desired breast size as well as anything else about your breasts that you would like to see improved. This will help your plastic surgeon to understand your expectations and determine whether they realistically can be achieved. Once your goals have been determined and realistic expectations have been discussed you will set a date for this procedure and will be given instructions about how to prepare.

When the date for your breast reduction has arrived, you should plan on the surgery taking several hours or more. The most common method of reducing the breasts involves three incisions. One incision is made around the areola. Another runs vertically from the bottom edge of the areola to the crease underneath the breast. The third incision follows the natural curve of the breast crease.

After your surgeon has removed excess breast tissue, fat and skin, the nipple and areola are shifted to a higher position. The areola, which in large breasts usually has been stretched, also is reduced in size. Skin that was formerly located above the nipple is brought down and together to reshape the breast. Liposuction may be used to improve the contour under the arm. Usually, the nipples and areolas remain attached to underlying mounds of tissue, and this allows for the preservation of sensation. All procedures are performed under general anesthesia to minimize any discomfort or pain.

It is important to follow any instructions your physician may give you following your breast lift. Patients should be aware that soreness will be present after the operation and that moderate to heavy physical activity following the operation should be avoided for a period of time.