Breast Reduction

For every woman who wishes she had larger breasts, there is a woman who wishes her breasts were smaller. Overly large breasts can cause a number of physical and psychological discomforts. Back neck and shoulder pain, unwanted attention and difficulty finding clothes that fit are just some of the challenges that women with large breasts may face. Breast reduction surgery removes breast tissue and excess skin to create smaller, lighter and more proportionate breasts.

Dr. Jennifer Harrington is a top female plastic surgeon with extensive experience performing breast reduction surgery. During your consultation, she’ll work with you to determine the best approach for your needs and ensure that your experience with us is a positive one.

Contact us online or call our Plymouth office today at 651-290-7600 for more information about reduction mammoplasty. Harrington Plastic Surgery has helped women from Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnetonka, Sartell, St. Cloud and throughout Minnesota with breast reduction surgery.

Breast reduction surgery offers both physical relief and aesthetic improvement for patients who feel weighed down by overly large breasts. By reducing excess tissue and reshaping the breasts, this procedure can significantly improve comfort, mobility and confidence.

Key benefits include:

• Relief from chronic pain. By reducing strain on the neck, shoulders and back, breast reduction can provide nearly immediate relief from pain and discomfort.
• Improved posture. Less weight on the chest allows for better spinal alignment.
• Greater comfort with physical activity. Reducing excess breast tissue makes exercise and everyday movement more comfortable.
• Enhanced breast shape and proportion. For many women, this procedure results in a breast size that better fits their body shape and proportions.
• Improved clothing fit. Breast reduction surgery often expands clothing options and eliminates the need for specialty bras and swimwear.
• Reduced skin irritation. Removing excess tissue helps to prevent rashes and chafing beneath the breasts.

There are 3 main incision types used for breast reduction surgery:

• Periareolar Incision: This incision is made around the areola in a circular pattern. This approach can interfere with the milk ducts and glands, which may affect your ability to breastfeed in the future.
• Keyhole Incision: This incision is similar to a periareolar incision, but includes a vertical incision running downward to the natural crease below the breast.
• Anchor Incision: This incision circles the areola, runs vertically down to the breast crease and then follows the breast crease a short distance in both directions. An anchor incision is usually used when a large amount of breast tissue is being removed.

At your consultation, Dr. Harrington will discuss these options in more detail with you and work with you to determine the best surgical technique for your breast reduction.

The first step in your breast reduction journey is a personalized consultation with Dr. Harrington. During this visit, she will take time to understand your concerns, discuss your goals and review your medical history to ensure breast reduction is the right option for you.

Dr. Harrington will also perform a thorough physical evaluation to assess breast size, shape and skin quality, and will explain the surgical approach best suited to your body. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, review what to expect before and after surgery and feel confident moving forward with a plan tailored specifically to your needs.

Breast reduction is performed under general anesthesia as a same-day procedure. Patients with sensitivities to narcotic medications may benefit from our opioid-free or reduced surgery and recovery customized approach.

The entire process typically takes approximately 2 to 3 hours and takes place at an accredited surgical facility. You will need to arrive at the surgery center 1 hour before your procedure start time and will stay for at least 1 hour after your surgery. You should bring an adult who can drive you home after your surgery and remain with you for at least 24 hours after you are discharged.

After making the necessary incision(s), Dr. Harrington removes breast tissue before reshaping the remaining tissue and repositioning to a higher position on the chest wall, similar to the surgical steps taken during breast lift surgery. The breast skin is tightened around the new breast shape and excess skin is removed.

Depending on your goals, Dr. Harrington may also recommend additional procedures to complement your breast reduction results. Breast reduction surgery can also include liposuction to further refine the contours of the breast and surrounding area, although liposuction alone can’t achieve a significant reduction in breast size.

Following your breast reduction, some discomfort and swelling is to be expected. Most women take anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks away from work and other normal activities to give their bodies sufficient time to heal. Dr. Harrington may provide you with a special post-surgical compression garment to wear during the first few days of your recovery. The compression garment helps to minimize swelling and increase comfort.

Light walking is encouraged shortly after surgery to promote healthy circulation, but you will need to avoid strenuous activity for several weeks. Most women are able to resume regular workouts around 6 weeks after breast reduction surgery, once cleared by Dr. Harrington.

It is important to discuss possible complications and risks with Dr. Harrington prior to your breast reduction. If you notice any sudden pain or swelling in one breast, notify our office immediately.

You’ll notice an immediate change in breast size and weight after surgery, though swelling in the early weeks can temporarily obscure your results. As swelling subsides, your breasts will gradually settle into a more natural shape and position.

Most women see their final breast reduction results within 3 to 6 months of surgery. Incision lines will continue to fade and soften over time, with scars typically maturing over 12 to 18 months. With proper scar care and healthy lifestyle habits, results are long-lasting and often accompanied by improved comfort, mobility and overall quality of life.