Breast Reduction

Breast reduction relieves physical discomfort associated with large breasts and improves breast appearance, reducing nipple size and elevating the breast. Breast reduction may be covered by insurance for some patients—please consult your provider for more information.

Anesthesia: General

What is the recovery like?

Breast reduction is usually performed on an outpatient basis, and you will most likely spend a few hours at the surgery facility after the procedure for monitoring. You will receive pain medication to minimize post-operative discomfort. You may have small drain tubes in your breasts to prevent fluid from accumulating, and your breasts will be wrapped in an elastic bandage or a special support bra.

You should arrange to have a trusted friend or loved one available to bring you home. You should be up and about in a day or two. Dressings should be removed a few days after the procedure, and you will be given a support bra. During this first follow-up appointment, Dr. Kendall will tell you how long you should continue to wear this bra, as well as when you may begin to shower again, which is typically four days to a week after surgery. This varies from patient to patient. Most patients will have their sutures removed roughly a week after surgery.

Depending on your occupation, you may be allowed to return to work within a few days, though patients with physically demanding jobs—especially jobs involving use of the arms—may be told to stay home longer. Generally speaking, vigorous activity should be avoided for two to three weeks. Sexual activity should be avoided for at least one week, and special care must be taken to be very gentle with your breasts after that.

There will be a small amount of swelling and discoloration initially, but this should not last long. Initial discomfort can be addressed with the recommended pain medications, but extreme pain should be reported to Dr. Kendall’s office immediately.

Be sure to follow the instructions you receive before your procedure closely in order to avoid harming yourself and achieve the best possible result.

Your breast reduction outcome will take a few weeks or months to become final. Do not be discouraged if your early results are not what you had hoped for. Provided you do not undergo any major fluctuations in weight, the results should be permanent, though it is important to note that every woman’s breasts will be affected by gravity over time, and their appearance will gradually change.

Please consult our FAQ for general information on cosmetic and plastic surgery.