Breast Reduction Surgery

Many women wish they had smaller, more manageable breasts. In fact, breast reduction surgery is one of the most sought-out procedures in contemporary plastic surgery.

If the size and weight of a woman’s breasts far exceed the capacity of her back and shoulders to support them, the condition may cause back pain and discomfort. Large, pendulous breasts can also become uncomfortable due to chafing underneath the breast, causing extreme discomfort.

For many women, a breast reduction provides far more than merely a cosmetic solution, as many patients report feeling incredible relief after the procedure when their back and shoulders finally get a rest from carrying the excess weight. Cosmetically, having breasts that are disproportionately large in comparison to the rest of the body is also problematic for many women, as clothes may not fit properly due to the discrepancy between the size of your chest and the size of your hips.

Why Choose Us For Breast Reduction Surgery?

When you visit our relaxing cosmetic surgery office, you will receive the best of care. Dr. Hendricks is a dedicated Newport Beach plastic surgeon who is triple board-certified in plastic surgery, hand surgery, and general surgery. Dr. Hendricks is regarded among the most experienced and skilled Newport Beach Breast Reduction Surgery providers.

After establishing the Pacifica Cosmetic Surgery Center two decades ago in the picturesque Southern California region, Dr. Hendricks has effectively enhanced the lives of numerous patients through the delivery of exceptional and enduring outcomes. Collaboratively, Dr. Hendricks and his dedicated team strive to create personalized strategies that cater precisely to individual requirements, ensuring optimal solutions. Our commitment revolves around revitalizing your genuine aesthetics, helping you recapture and restore your beauty.

The Breast Reduction Surgery Procedure

Breast reduction surgery, known medically as reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat, tissue, and skin from the breasts. During the procedure, the surgeon makes a hairline incision around the areola and down the center of each breast to the crease beneath the breast.

This typical anchor-shaped incision is the norm however Dr. Hendricks uses the short-scar vertical breast reduction technique which allows for easy and effective removal of excess breast tissue, fat, and skin. Newport Beach plastic surgeon, Dr. Hendricks, then reshapes the breast into a smaller shape and repositions the nipple and areola. Breast reduction is a specialized surgical procedure that must be performed by a skilled and qualified plastic surgeon. Dr. Hendricks is a top provider of breast reduction surgery. He is board-certified in three different types of surgery, including plastic surgery, and has over 30 years of experience performing cosmetic surgeries.

Breast Reduction Incisions

Breast reduction surgeries commonly use three types of incisions: Lollipop, Anchor, and Donut. The Lollipop incision involves a vertical line from the areola to the breast crease, suitable for moderate reductions with minimal scarring.

The Anchor incision incorporates an additional horizontal incision along the breast crease, ideal for significant reductions and reshaping. Though it leaves more noticeable scars, it can address severe cases. The Donut incision encircles the areola, which is beneficial for minor reductions or when improving breast shape without removing much tissue. The choice of incision depends on the patient’s breast size, degree of reduction needed, and desired scarring outcome.

Who Should Consider Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction surgery is ideal for women who have excessively large breasts and are seeking relief from such problems as:
  • Chronic pain in the back, neck, and shoulder caused by excess weight in the breasts
  • Chronic rashes, chafing, or skin irritation underneath the breasts
  • Difficulty finding bras and clothing that fit properly
  • Nerve pain
  • Poor self-esteem associated with having excessively large breasts
  • Restricted physical activity due to discomfort caused by too-large breasts
While breast reduction surgery may be performed on patients at any age, in the case of teens whose breasts may not be fully developed, a follow-up surgery may be required later in life. Some patients may be advised to postpone breast reduction surgery for the following reasons: If you plan to start a family, it may be wise to consider breast reduction surgery until after you have finished going through pregnancy and lactation. Although your ability to breast-feed may be preserved during the procedure, nursing may still pose some challenges after breast reduction surgery. Additionally, changes caused by fluctuating hormone levels may alter the shape and size of your breasts, prompting the need for additional surgery after you have finished with childbirth and lactation. If you plan to gain or lose a significant amount of weight, it may be best to complete your diet and exercise plan first and postpone your breast reduction surgery until you are closer to your ideal weight, as future weight fluctuations could alter the outcome of your surgery. Breast reduction surgery may not be advisable for you if you have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, are obese or excessively overweight. If you have any questions about whether or not you are a candidate for a breast reduction, schedule a consultation with Dr. Hendricks, and get all of your questions answered by a skilled and experienced surgeon.

How can Breast Reduction improve my life?

Breast reduction can have a significant positive impact on a person’s life, both physically and emotionally. By reducing the size and weight of the breasts, this treatment can improve the overall quality of life and address various issues associated with large breasts. Here are some benefits of breast reduction surgery:

Increased Wardrobe Options: Many individuals with large breasts struggle to find well-fitting clothes that accommodate their bust size. After breast reduction, they can enjoy a broader range of clothing options, including tops, dresses, and swimwear, leading to increased comfort and style choices.

Improved Self-Confidence: Large breasts can sometimes lead to self-consciousness, body image issues, and reduced self-esteem. Breast reduction surgery can help patients feel more comfortable and confident in their bodies, improving their overall self-image and emotional well-being.

Enhanced Comfort: Large, heavy breasts can cause physical discomfort, such as neck, shoulder, and back pain, as well as skin irritation and bra strap grooving. Breast reduction can alleviate these discomforts, allowing individuals to engage in daily activities and exercise more comfortably.

Better Posture: With the reduced weight of the breasts, patients often experience improved posture, as they no longer need to compensate for the extra weight pulling them forward.

Relief from Medical Issues: Large breasts can lead to medical problems such as chronic pain, nerve compression, and breathing difficulties. Breast reduction can provide relief from these issues, enhancing overall health and well-being.

Ease of Physical Activity: Engaging in physical activities or sports can be challenging with excessively large breasts. After breast reduction, individuals may find it easier to participate in activities they enjoy, leading to a more active and healthier lifestyle.

Enhanced Sleep Quality: Many patients with large breasts struggle with sleep disruptions due to discomfort. Breast reduction can improve sleep quality, allowing for better rest and rejuvenation.

Elimination of Rashes and Infections: Skin irritation, rashes, and infections in the breast fold area can be common with large breasts. By reducing breast size, these issues can be eliminated or significantly reduced.

Breast reduction surgery is a life-changing procedure that not only addresses physical discomforts but also boosts self-confidence, body image, and overall quality of life. Patients often experience a newfound sense of freedom, comfort, and well-being, leading to a happier and healthier life.

What types of Breast Reduction are available?

There are several types of breast reduction procedures available, each with its unique approach and incision patterns to achieve the desired outcome. Here is an overview of some common breast reduction techniques:

Wise Pattern Breast Reduction:

  • Also known as the “Anchor” or “Inverted T” technique.
  • This method involves three incisions: one around the areola, a vertical incision from the areola to the breast crease, and a horizontal incision along the breast crease.
  • Ideal for patients with significant breast volume reduction and sagging.

Benelli Breast Reduction:

  • Also referred to as the “Donut” or “Periareolar” technique.
  • Involves a single circular incision around the areola.
  • Suitable for patients requiring a moderate reduction or those concerned about scarring.

No Vertical Scar Breast Reduction:

  • A modified version of the Wise Pattern technique.
  • Involves an incision around the areola and a short horizontal incision along the breast crease, omitting the vertical incision.
  • Can be effective for patients with moderate breast reduction needs and less severe sagging.

Scarless Breast Reduction:

  • Also known as liposuction-only breast reduction.
  • Involves the use of liposuction to remove excess fat from the breasts without making significant incisions.
  • Suitable for patients with minimal sagging and fatty tissue.

Vertical Breast Reduction:

  • Also referred to as the “Lollipop” technique.
  • Involves a circular incision around the areola and a vertical incision from the areola to the breast crease.
  • Effective for moderate breast reductions and patients who wish to avoid the horizontal incision.

Each breast reduction technique has its advantages and is chosen based on the patient’s individual needs, breast size, and desired outcomes. Consulting with a qualified plastic surgeon will help determine the most suitable procedure to achieve the desired breast size and shape while minimizing scarring and maximizing patient satisfaction.

Your Newport Beach Breast Reduction Consultation

Our triple board-certified plastic surgeon works closely with his patients to help deliver a result that is carefully tailored to suit your unique aesthetic goals and overall appearance. IF you’d like to learn more about breast reduction surgery Newport Beach breast surgery expert, Dr. Hendricks, is ready to answer any questions you have and address your concerns during an initial consultation. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation at our state-of-the-art facility. Call us at 949-531-7369 to get started!

How much does a Breast Reduction cost?

Breast reduction surgery costs vary based on the technique, surgeon’s experience, location, and additional procedures. Each surgery is customized to the patient’s needs. Expenses include surgical, anesthesia, and facility fees, as well as pre and post-operative care. Geographic location impacts pricing. It is essential to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon for an accurate cost estimate. Health insurance may cover the procedure if medically necessary.

Does Health Insurance Cover Breast Reduction Surgery?

This depends in large part on whether the size and weight of your breasts are causing you physical discomfort such as chronic pain in the back and shoulders, exacerbating a medical condition such as chronic skin rashes, or impairing your physical ability to perform certain routine tasks such as dressing yourself or other normal daily activities. If it is determined that your breast reduction surgery is a medical necessity, it is possible that your health insurance carrier may cover part or even all of the procedure costs.

What are the Benefits of Breast Reduction Surgery?

If you have over-large breasts, breast reduction surgery may provide relief from chronic discomfort caused by excess weight in your breasts. It may also help you to achieve a more proportional figure, by bringing the breast size into balance with the rest of your body. Many patients report that having breast reduction surgery also helped to improve their self-esteem, and made them more likely to engage in exercise and participate in physical activities. In many cases, women who are top-heavy appear to be older and heavier than they actually are. For all of these reasons, a breast reduction procedure may be the ideal solution for those with excessively large, heavy breasts. At our Cosmetic Surgery Center in Newport Beach, Dr. Douglas Hendricks brings over three decades of surgical experience and expertise to his practice, providing top-of-the-line cosmetic and reconstructive surgical procedures for residents of Southern California.

Results, Recovery, and Aftercare

Results: The initial results of breast reduction are noticeable immediately after surgery, but full results emerge gradually as swelling subsides, typically within a few months.
Recovery: Downtime varies, but most patients can resume light activities after a week and return to work within 2-4 weeks. Strenuous activities should be avoided for 4-6 weeks.
Post-Treatment Life: Patients experience improved comfort, self-confidence, and a more proportionate figure.
Aftercare: Following the surgeon’s instructions is vital for proper incision care, scar prevention, and maintaining results. Avoid smoking, limit sun exposure, and maintain a stable weight.

Schedule Your Breast Reduction Consultation at Pacifica Cosmetic Surgery Center Today:

Are you ready to feel more comfortable and confident in your own skin? Schedule your breast reduction consultation today at Pacifica Cosmetic Surgery Center. Our team of experienced professionals is committed to helping you achieve the results you desire. Don’t hesitate any longer – call (949) 531-7369 to book your appointment now and take the first step towards a happier and more confident you.

Breast Reduction frequently asked questions

Yes, breast reduction can also provide a breast lift by addressing excess skin and repositioning the breasts to a more youthful position.
A supportive bra is typically recommended immediately after surgery to aid in healing and minimize swelling.
Breasts may change due to factors like weight fluctuations and aging, but significant regrowth after breast reduction is rare.

Breasts may change due to factors like weight fluctuations and aging, but significant regrowth after breast reduction is rare.

Breasts may change due to factors like weight fluctuations and aging, but significant regrowth after breast reduction is rare.

Contact us

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

hear from
our real patients