Breast Reduction Questions

Q - What is breast reduction?
Breast reduction, known technically as reduction mammaplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure which removes excess fat, tissue, and skin in order to correct heavy, sagging or pendulous breasts. The result is smaller, firmer, and lighter breasts.

Q - Is breast reduction right for me?
If you are a healthy woman who is looking to improve heavy, sagging, or pendulous breasts, you may be a good candidate for breast reduction. It’s essential that patients have realistic expectations for improvement as well. Younger patients who have not yet fully developed and women who are planning to breast feed in the future may be advised to postpone surgery.

Q - What does a consultation for breast reduction entail?
During a consultation for breast reduction, Dr. Berman will examine your breasts, take a thorough medical history, and discuss your goals. All aspects of the procedure will be explained including the technique, the anesthesia, the facility, the recovery, the risks, the costs and so on.

Q - What type of anesthesia is used for breast reduction?
Breast reduction is most often performed with general anesthesia.

Q - How is breast reduction performed?
For breast reduction, one of the more common incisions is one which follows the shape of an anchor, circling around the areola, extending downward, and then running across the crease beneath the breast. Excess fat, glandular tissue and skin are then removed. Some patients, particularly those with very large or pendulous breasts, may need to have the nipples and areolas completely removed and then grafted to a higher position.

Q - How long does breast reduction take to perform?
Breast reduction usually takes two to four hours to perform.

Q - Where are the incisions made for breast reduction?
The incision for breast reduction is often made in the shape of an anchor, running around the areola, extending downward, and then along the crease beneath the breast.

Q - Does breast reduction leave scars?
The incision made for the breast reduction does result in a scar. It is typically located around the areola and runs downward and then along the crease below the breast.

Q - Does breast reduction involve much pain?
The breasts may ache for several weeks after breast reduction, but medication can help to control this.

Q - What is the recovery like after breast reduction?
Recovery after breast reduction takes about two weeks. Swelling and bruising may occur, and a surgical bra or bandage may need to be worn for several days.

Q - When will I be able to return to work after undergoing breast reduction?
Patients can return to work in about two weeks after the breast reduction.

Q - How soon will I be able to exercise after my breast reduction?
Patients will need to wait three to four weeks after the breast reduction procedure before partaking in strenuous activities or exercise.

Q - When will my stitches be removed after my breast reduction?
The stitches are removed within one to three weeks after breast reduction.

Q - What are the risks or complications associated with breast reduction?
All surgery carries potential risks. Those associated with breast reduction may include infection, changes in nipple or breast sensation, mismatched breasts or nipples, and complications with breast feeding.

Q - Is breast reduction covered by insurance?
Insurance companies do sometimes cover breast reduction procedures and patients should be sure to check with their own insurance company.

Q - Can I finance my breast reduction?
Financing is available for many plastic surgery procedures.

Dr. Naderi's office in Herndon, VA is conveniently located near the following: