Breast Reduction

Breast reduction surgery offers an opportunity to enhance comfort and confidence for women facing macromastia. By removing excess tissue, fat and skin, this procedure creates a more balanced shape, helping you feel at ease and radiate your best self.

Large breasts can cause both physical and emotional challenges. Common concerns include:

• Neck, shoulder, and upper back pain
• Skin irritation or rashes beneath the breasts
• Posture issues
• Self-consciousness or difficulty finding well-fitting clothing
• Limitations in physical activity

Breast size can be influenced by pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes, genetics, and natural aging. Breast reduction can help restore balance, comfort, and confidence.

Consultation

During your consultation, we will:

• Review your medical history, allergies, and current medications
• Discuss your symptoms and goals for surgery
• Recommend a mammogram before the procedure (for most patients)
• Examine your breasts, including measurements, skin quality, and nipple position
• Review surgical options, incision patterns, likely outcomes, and potential risks

It’s normal to feel some anxiety before surgery—your care team will answer questions and help you feel confident in your decision.

The Procedure

Breast reduction is typically performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. You will be asleep and comfortable during the procedure.

• Excess tissue, fat, and skin are removed to achieve a smaller, balanced breast size
• The breast is lifted for a higher position on the chest wall
• The areola (the pigmented skin around the nipple) may be reduced for proportion
• Incision patterns vary depending on breast size, shape, and degree of sagging

Incisions are placed to minimize visibility—some are hidden in natural contours. While scars are permanent, they usually fade significantly over time.

Recovery

• Drains (if used) are typically removed within 48 hours
• Sutures are absorbable, and dressings can often be removed within 24 hours
• Most patients return to work within a few days (longer if job is physically demanding)
• Breast soreness usually improves in 1–2 weeks
• Exercise can typically resume in about 4 weeks

Results are visible immediately, with swelling and incision lines improving over time. Most patients experience lasting relief from physical discomfort and increased confidence in their appearance.

Why Choose CHRISTUS Health

At CHRISTUS Health, your comfort, safety, and satisfaction are our priorities. We use advanced surgical techniques, personalized treatment planning, and compassionate care to help you achieve results that feel natural and fit your lifestyle.

Insurance Coverage

Breast reduction surgery is generally considered a reconstructive breast procedure and may be covered by your health insurance when it is performed to relieve the medical symptoms associated with overly large breasts. Insurance providers usually determine whether to categorize breast reduction surgery as reconstructive surgery based on the estimated amount of tissue that is planned to be removed, as well as, documented failure to achieve relief of symptoms with medical management. A pre-determination of benefits is usually required for insurance reimbursement or coverage. Insurance policies vary greatly, so carefully review your insurance policy to determine availability of coverage. Breast reduction surgery can also be performed as an elective cosmetic procedure.