Reduction mammaplasty typically takes 3 to 4 hours. It’s performed under general anesthesia, in a private surgical center or hospital.
These are the two most common surgical techniques.
Vertical or “lollipop” breast reduction works best for a moderate size reduction.
- One incision is made around the areola
- It connects to a second incision running vertically, from the bottom of the areola to the crease beneath the breast
Inverted-T or anchor breast reduction works better for patients who need a significant size reduction and lift.
- An incision is made around the areola
- It connects with a vertical incision made from the bottom of the areola to the breast crease
- This connects to an incision within the crease, creating an upside-down “T”
Once the incisions are made, a breast reduction procedure typically looks something like this:
- Your surgeon removes excess breast tissue, skin, and fat from each breast
- Liposuction may be performed, to contour fatty tissue
- Your surgeon reshapes the remaining tissue, often sitting you up mid-operation (while you’re asleep) to make sure your results will look symmetrical
- Typically, they then reposition the areola and nipples, which remain attached to the underlying tissue to ensure a healthy blood supply and maintain sensitivity
- Many surgeons inject a slow-release numbing agent like Exparel, to ease post-op pain
- They close the incisions with dissolvable sutures and may place thin surgical drains, to remove excess fluid that accumulates in your breast for up to 48 hours post-op
Immediately after surgery, you will be placed in a sterile gauze dressing or bandage, often covered by a surgical bra. You’ll be taken to a recovery room, where your vitals will be monitored as you emerge from the anesthesia.
You’ll probably be given pain medication, to keep you comfortable as you head home. Have a trusted relative or friend available to take you home and stay with you for the first night.
RealSelf Tip: If you’re concerned about belly fat, combining a breast reduction procedure with abdominal liposuction can also help create a well-proportioned result. Some patients also combine it with a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), for a full mommy makeover.
Insurance wouldn't cover the cost of lipo or a tummy tuck, but there are financial advantages to combining them, since at least a portion of the anesthesia and facility fee may be covered. Just be aware that longer operations can come with elevated risks, which your provider should discuss with you.
