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What is Breast Reduction

Approximately one million women in the U.S. struggle with symptoms directly related to large breasts. Most common complaints include a patient’s neck, back, and shoulder pain. Such chronic pain and discomfort can come in the form of negatively impacting a women’s life. Everyday activities such as exercising, driving, and even wearing a bra become uncomfortable. Migraine headaches, hand numbness, and rashes under the breasts are additional symptoms of Macromastia or overly large breasts. Social stigmas associated with overly large breasts can also lead to self-esteem issues for women. Surveys have shown that breast reduction surgery offers the happiest patient outcomes of all plastic surgery procedures. Many women undergoing the procedure often wonder why they didn’t pursue it much, much sooner.
Although there are a number of different techniques, all of them share the advantage of both reducing and lifting the breasts for a much more youthful appearance. The symmetry of both breasts is also a goal of breast reduction surgery. The Areola around the nipples is usually reduced in diameter and nipple sensation is usually preserved, as is the continued ability to lactate.

The Procedure

Surgeries are performed in our state-of-the-art, accredited surgical facility in our Kirkland clinic. All surgeries in our clinic are considered “outpatient surgeries”. We avoid general anesthesia, preferring to give ‘twilight sleep’ and leaving the patient with the ability to breathe on their own. Dr. Partington will carefully follow the surgical plan he has set forth with you, using the safest technique to get you through your surgery comfortably. The time estimated for your surgery will be determined after a physical exam by Dr. Partington at your consultation. You will be observed for a short period of time following your procedure and when cleared by Dr. Partington, released to go home with the adult caretaker you have chosen.

The Recovery

Post-operative pain is usually moderate and well-controlled with oral pain medications. Recovery time is usually 10 to 14 days. Some patients are able to return to work in a few days, while others prefer to take more time off. There are scars associated with Breast Reduction and patients scar in different ways. For most patients, scars start out red and eventually fade into inconspicuous lines. The vast majority of patients feel that the eventually faded scars are a worthwhile trade-off for the improvement in their body shape, chronic pain, and self-esteem.

Breast Reduction FAQs

Can breasts grow back after Breast Reduction?
For most patients, the results of a breast reduction are permanent. However, some may experience larger breasts after pregnancy, weight gain, or other changes. It is unlikely that the breasts would return to their original size, even with this growth.
Can you drink alcohol after a Breast Reduction?
Its best to avoid drinking alcohol for about five days after your breast reduction. Its especially important to avoid drinking if you are also taking pain medication.
Do you lose feeling in your nipples after a Breast Reduction?
Some patients will lose sensation in the nipples after a breast reduction. Not all patients will experience this effect, and for some, loss of sensation is temporary.
Does breast size effect weight?
Weight affects breast size. The body stores excess weight proportionally throughout the body, including the breasts.
Does insurance pay for Breast Reduction?
In some cases, insurance may cover the costs of a breast reduction. Though we are not under contract nor process insurance, Dr. Partington acts as an out of network provider for many patients who are seeking medical expertise.