Breast Reduction
in Grand Rapids, MI
In the case of breast reduction, less CAN actually be more. Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure in which the size of the breasts are made smaller. In most cases, the surgeon removes excess breast tissue and skin, creating a smaller, firmer breast. The Centre for Plastic Surgery in Grand Rapids, Michigan has been a premier location for breast surgery since 1983. Our team of experienced board-certified plastic surgeons have dedicated decades to the craft of breast reduction surgery.
Why Should I Consider Breast Reduction Surgery?
Macromastia is a medical condition that describes excessively large breasts in women, and can be very uncomfortable attribute many patients. For patients who suffer with this condition, their disproportionately large breasts are often the source of both physical and emotional stress. (In men, this condition is known as Gynecomastia.) Patients who are seeking breast reduction surgery are often concerned with:
- Breasts that limit their physical activity
- Back and/or neck pain associated with the size of their breasts
- Nerve pain, numbness, or tingling that could be attributed to large breasts
- Breasts that seem too large for the size of their bodies
- Breasts that cause skin issues and irritations
What to Expect with Breast Reduction Surgery?
During your initial call to our practice, we will discuss all of your concerns in relationship to your breast size and determine if a consultation is the right next step for you. The consultation will include a detailed description of the procedure, examples of patient outcomes, and the chance for you to ask questions and explain your concerns.
In most breast reduction procedures, the surgeon removes excess tissue and skin, creating a smaller, firmer breast, and raises the nipple and areolas higher on the breast to accommodate the new breast proportions, and create a smaller, natural looking breast. A breast lift is frequently included to create a more youthful appearance. The breast reduction procedure is most commonly performed under general anesthesia.
What to Expect During Your Recovery from Breast Reduction Surgery
Since your surgery will be performed using anesthesia, you’ll feel very sleepy and may not even remember your procedure. It’s crucial that you have a caregiver who can be with you on the day of surgery and stay to help you for the first 24-48 hours at a minimum. Breast reduction surgery causes mild to moderate discomfort in most patients. You’ll be prescribed medications to alleviate your pain and be given garments and other items for your recovery by our office. Most patients start feeling well enough to return to work within 1-2 weeks of surgery. Some activities such as heavy lifting may need to be modified for longer. Our expert staff will help you to prepare for your recovery, and will be available to address any concerns that you may have every step of the way.
The final results of your breast reduction will take time to become apparent (about six months), but your breasts will be noticeably smaller and lighter immediately following surgery. Most patients experience swelling that can last weeks or even months following the procedure. This swelling will be more noticeable in the first few weeks and diminish over time. Your scars will be very red and “angry” looking right after surgery, but should begin to fade slowly as well. There are steps you can take to care for your scars.
Am I a Candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery?
The best candidates for breast reduction surgery are healthy, non-smoking adults at a stable weight who are bothered by the large size of their breasts. Some candidates are experiencing physical complications that merit the procedure for medical reasons. Others are simply seeking surgical intervention for aesthetic reasons. Either way, at the Centre for Plastic Surgery we will help you to discover if a breast reduction is right for you.
Breast Reduction in Grand Rapids, MI
Before & After
Breast Reduction Patient 17
This is a 40-year-old woman (5'3", 141 pounds) who desired smaller, more youthful-looking breasts after having two children. She underwent a bilateral breast reduction, with 265g (0.58 pounds) removed from her right breast and 345g (0.76 pounds) from her left breast. Preoperatively, she wore a 34DD bra and now wears a 34C. The after photos, taken 12 months post-surgery, highlight her transformation.
Breast Reduction Patient 28
This is a 50-year-old woman (5'7", 160 pounds) who sought a solution for concerns about her breast size and the associated ptosis (sagging) caused by excess tissue. Her original bra size was a D cup. During her Breast Reduction procedure, 322g (0.71 pounds) of tissue was removed from the left breast and 362g (0.6 pounds) from the right breast, resulting in a final cup size of C. Additionally, she underwent a revision of her surgical scarring one year later. The after photos, taken 18 months post-breast reduction and scar revision, showcase her transformation.
Breast Reduction Patient 22
This is a 60-year-old woman (5'4", 231 pounds) who experienced shoulder and back discomfort due to heavy, asymmetric breasts. She underwent bilateral breast reduction surgery, during which 552g (1.21 pounds) were removed from her right breast and 839g (1.85 pounds) from her left breast. The after photos, taken five months post-procedure, highlight her transformation.
How Much Does Breast Augmentation Surgery Cost?
The cost of breast lift surgery may vary depending on your individual needs, and if an implant will be used in conjunction with the procedure. The best way to obtain a realistic estimate is to contact our office. We’re happy to answer your questions about price, and schedule your consultation. However, you can also get an idea of cost by visiting our pricing estimator.
We Offer Financing
At the Centre for Plastic Surgery we understand that investing in yourself is a big decision. If financing is a concern, we are happy to help by guiding you to trusted partners with experience in medical lending.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Reduction
How much does breast reduction cost in Grand Rapids, MI?
The cost of breast reduction at the Centre for Plastic Surgery depends on the amount of tissue removed, the technique used, and whether a breast lift or liposuction is included. The total fee covers the surgeon, anesthesia and our accredited surgical facility. For a personalized range, use our online pricing estimator or call (616) 454-1256.
Does insurance cover breast reduction surgery?
Insurance often covers breast reduction when it is medically necessary to relieve symptoms caused by large breasts. Most insurers require documented back, neck or shoulder pain, bra-strap grooving, or skin rashes; a record of trying conservative treatment such as physical therapy; and a minimum amount of tissue removed based on your height and weight. Every plan is different. At your consultation, our team reviews your history and helps you gather records and request pre-authorization.
Do you offer monthly payment plans for breast reduction?
Yes. The Centre for Plastic Surgery works with trusted medical lending partners so patients can pay over time. Learn more on our financing page.
Am I a good candidate for breast reduction?
You may be a good candidate if your breasts cause physical discomfort or feel out of proportion with your body, and you are in good health, don’t smoke, and are at a stable weight. Common reasons include back, neck and shoulder pain, bra-strap grooves, rashes under the breasts, and difficulty exercising. A consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons is the best way to know for sure.
What is the best age for breast reduction surgery?
Breast reduction is best performed once breast development is complete, which for most patients is in their late teens or later. Teenagers with severe symptoms may be considered when their breast size has been stable for at least a year, with parental consent. There is no upper age limit; adults of any age in good health can be candidates.
Should I lose weight before breast reduction?
It’s best to be at or near a stable, comfortable weight before surgery. Significant weight loss afterward can change the size and shape of your breasts. If you plan to lose a substantial amount of weight, talk with your surgeon about timing at your consultation.
What is the difference between a breast reduction and a breast lift?
A breast reduction removes breast tissue, fat and skin to make the breasts smaller and lighter, while a breast lift reshapes and raises the breasts without significantly changing their size. Most breast reductions include a lift, so the result is both smaller and higher.
How is breast reduction surgery performed?
Breast reduction is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia that usually takes [2–4] hours. The surgeon removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin, reshapes the remaining breast, and lifts the nipple and areola to suit the new size. Most procedures take place in our accredited on-site surgical suite, though some insurance plans require the surgery to be done in a hospital.
Is breast reduction surgery safe?
Breast reduction is a well-established procedure with a strong safety record in healthy adults when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon in an accredited facility. Our surgeons are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and our surgical facility is accredited by QUAD A.
Not smoking and following pre- and post-op instructions further lower your risk.
What are the risks of breast reduction?
Possible risks include bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, noticeable scarring, changes in nipple or breast sensation, uneven breasts, and reactions to anesthesia. Serious complications are uncommon. Your surgeon will review every risk with you during your consultation and before you sign your consent.
How long is recovery from breast reduction?
Most patients return to desk work within 1–2 weeks of breast reduction. You’ll wear a supportive surgical bra, and swelling and soreness ease over the first few weeks. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise are usually avoided for about [4–6] weeks. Final results settle in around six to twelve months.
Will I have scars after breast reduction?
Yes, breast reduction leaves scars, usually around the areola and down the front of the breast, and sometimes along the crease beneath it. Scars are red at first and fade gradually over 12–18 months. Most are easily hidden by a bra or swimsuit. See our tips on caring for breast surgery scars.
Are breast reduction results permanent?
The tissue removed during breast reduction does not grow back, so results are long-lasting. Your breasts can still change with weight gain, pregnancy, hormonal shifts and aging. Keeping a stable weight helps you maintain your results.
Can I breastfeed after breast reduction?
Many women can breastfeed after breast reduction, but it may be limited or not possible for some. Techniques that keep the nipple attached to the tissue beneath it help preserve milk ducts and nerves. If you plan to have children, tell your surgeon at your consultation so it can guide your surgical plan and timing.
How do I choose the right breast reduction surgeon in Grand Rapids?
Look for a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery who performs breast reduction often and can show you before-and-after photos of patients with goals like yours. At the Centre for Plastic Surgery, our board-certified plastic surgeons have decades of experience and hold surgical privileges both in our QuadA-accredited onsite surgical facility on Paris Avenue SE and at Grand Rapids’ leading hospitals. Your surgeon will recommend the setting that’s best for your health and your procedure. Browse our before-and-after photos, then call us at (616) 454-1256 to schedule your consultation.