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.

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.

Breast reduction is performed under general anesthesia as a same-day procedure. Patients that have 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 stay for 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 incision, 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 2 to 6 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.

While you should notice a difference in your breasts right after surgery, your results will initially be obscured by swelling. Most women can see their final breast reduction results 3 to 6 months after their procedure, with scars continuing to mature for a year or more.

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.