Breast
Breast Reduction
Relieve discomfort and improve proportion with a carefully planned reduction tailored to your body. One of the highest patient-satisfaction procedures in plastic surgery.
About Breast Reduction
Breast reduction surgery (reduction mammaplasty) removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to achieve a breast size that is in better proportion with your body. It is consistently one of the highest patient-satisfaction procedures in plastic surgery — because it addresses both physical discomfort and aesthetic concerns simultaneously.
Large breasts can cause chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain; skin rashes under the breast fold; difficulty with physical activity; and challenges finding clothing that fits. Breast reduction relieves these symptoms while creating a more proportionate, lifted breast contour.
Dr. Lemelman tailors each reduction to the individual, selecting the incision pattern and technique that will achieve the desired size reduction while minimizing scarring. He also preserves nipple sensation and the ability to breastfeed in most cases.
Benefits
- Relieves chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain
- Eliminates skin irritation and rashes under the breast
- Improves posture and physical activity
- Creates a more proportionate breast size
- Lifts and reshapes the breast contour
- Preserves nipple sensation in most cases
- Often covered by insurance when medically necessary
- Dramatic improvement in quality of life
Recovery & What to Expect
Procedure time
2–4 hours
Anesthesia
General anesthesia
Return to work
1–2 weeks
Exercise restriction
4–6 weeks
Swelling resolves
3–6 months
Scar maturation
12–18 months
Frequently Asked Questions
Is breast reduction covered by insurance?
Breast reduction is often covered by insurance when it is medically necessary — typically when a minimum amount of tissue will be removed (based on your height and weight) and when you have documented symptoms such as back pain, skin rashes, or nerve symptoms. Dr. Lemelman's office will help you navigate the insurance authorization process.
How much tissue will be removed?
The amount removed depends on your current size, your goal size, and your anatomy. Dr. Lemelman will discuss your desired outcome at consultation and plan the reduction accordingly. Most patients go down 1–3 cup sizes, though the goal is proportion and relief of symptoms rather than a specific cup size.
Will I be able to breastfeed after reduction?
Many women breastfeed successfully after breast reduction. The ability to breastfeed depends on the technique used and how much tissue is removed. Dr. Lemelman will discuss your breastfeeding goals and select a technique that preserves this ability whenever possible.
What will the scars look like?
Breast reduction scars follow a lollipop or anchor pattern around the areola and down the lower breast. Scars are initially pink and raised but fade significantly over 12–18 months. Most patients find the improvement in symptoms and appearance far outweighs the presence of scars.
How soon will I feel relief from my symptoms?
Most patients notice immediate relief from neck, back, and shoulder pain after surgery. The full benefit is felt once swelling has resolved, typically within a few weeks. The improvement in quality of life is one of the most dramatic of any procedure in plastic surgery.
Ready to take the next step?
Every journey begins with a conversation. Book your personal consultation with Dr. Lemelman directly.