Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a life-changing procedure for women who feel their breasts are out of proportion to their body or struggle with chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain due to their size and weight. This condition can interfere with daily activities, make exercise difficult, and take a physical and emotional toll.
Dr. Troy Pittman, a board-certified plastic surgeon and internationally recognized body and breast surgery expert, specializes in helping women regain comfort and confidence. With advanced training and extensive experience, Dr. Pittman is a trusted choice for breast reduction surgery in Washington, D.C.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Reduction?
Reducing the size of overly large breasts through surgery can dramatically improve physical comfort and overall well-being. You may be a good candidate for breast reduction if you meet the following criteria:
- Physically Healthy: Being in good physical health and free of any medical issues that could complicate surgery is important for candidates.
- Non-Smoker: Smoking can impede healing and increase the risk of complications, so non-smokers or those willing to quit before surgery are ideal.
- Discomfort Due to Breast Size: The physical and emotional burden of overly large breasts, including difficulty with physical activities and pain in the back, neck, and shoulders, often motivates candidates to pursue surgery.
- Visible Signs of Strain: Common issues include indentations from bra straps, skin irritation under the breast crease, or breasts that hang low with stretched skin.
- Structural Concerns: Nipples that rest below the breast crease when breasts are unsupported or enlarged areolas caused by stretched skin are also common reasons for seeking breast reduction.
If you recognize these challenges and seek a solution to improve your comfort, mobility, and self-confidence, breast reduction may be the right choice for you. A consultation with Dr. Pittman can help determine if this transformative procedure is the best option for your unique needs.
The Consultation
In your consultation, Dr. Pittman will discuss your individual goals for the procedure. Breast reduction is a highly individualized procedure. Dr. Pittman will use Crisalix virtual imaging to simulate what you may look like after breast reduction.
The Surgery
Breast reduction surgery takes two hours. An incision is made around the areola (the colored part around the nipple). The reduction removes much of the breast tissue from the bottom of the breast while maintaining fullness in the upper part of the breast. Excess skin and breast tissue are removed.
There are two types of breast-reduction incisions: the anchor and the lollypop.
Mammography after Breast Reduction
Many women are concerned about mammography after breast reduction. Breast reduction does cause a small amount of damage to the breast tissue. As a result, breast reduction can certainly interfere with post-operative imaging. However, a trained breast radiologist can usually tell the difference between predictable changes on a mammogram versus an abnormality.
Once you've had a local breast reduction, it is important to notify the radiologist that you have had the surgery when you go for your mammogram. If you are over 40 or have a family history of breast cancer, Dr. Pittman will recommend a mammogram before surgery. All breast tissue removed is sent for pathologic analysis after breast reduction.
"Dr. Pittman and his team were a dream come true. They made my whole experience as comfortable as possible. I also like to credit the nurses because they took such a great care of me and I really appreciated that. 1000% recommend them."
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Prepare for Breast Reduction?
Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions, which may include stopping specific medications like blood thinners, quitting smoking, and arranging for help during your recovery.
How Long Will the Results Last?
Breast reduction surgery results are generally long-lasting. However, factors like weight fluctuations, aging, and pregnancy can affect your breasts' size and shape over time.
What Are Breast Reduction Surgery Risks?
As with any surgery, breast reduction carries some risks. Potential complications include infection, bleeding, scarring, and changes in nipple sensation. Choosing a skilled, board-certified surgeon helps minimize these risks.
Can I Breastfeed After Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breastfeeding after a breast reduction is possible for some women, but it may be more difficult depending on the surgical technique used. Your surgeon can explain the likelihood of successful breastfeeding based on your case and surgical plan.
Will Breast Reduction Surgery Affect Nipple Sensation?
You may experience changes in nipple sensation after breast reduction surgery, which can range from increased sensitivity to numbness. In most cases, these changes are temporary, but there is a chance that some patients may experience permanent alterations in sensation.
How Soon Can I Return to Work or Normal Activities After Breast Reduction Surgery?
Most patients can return to work and light activities within one to two weeks after breast reduction surgery, depending on their healing progress. You won't be able to do strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for about four to six weeks.
Can Breast Reduction Be Combined With Other Cosmetic Procedures?
Yes, breast reduction surgery can be performed with a breast lift, tummy tuck, or liposuction. Discuss your goals with your surgeon to create a customized treatment plan if you want to combine procedures.
Why Choose Dr. Troy Pittman for Breast Reduction?
Dr. Troy Pittman is an award-winning, internationally recognized plastic surgeon specializing in aesthetic and reconstructive breast surgery. Board-certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Pittman offers unmatched expertise in breast reduction and complex revision breast surgery. His extensive training includes residencies in General and Plastic Surgery at Rush University Medical Center and a fellowship in Aesthetic and Reconstructive Breast Surgery at Georgetown University Hospital.
Before co-founding Somenek+PittmanMD, an upscale concierge plastic surgery practice in Washington, D.C., and New York City, Dr. Pittman served as a faculty member at both Johns Hopkins University and Georgetown University. He has directed cosmetic surgery programs, contributed to groundbreaking research, and taught advanced surgical techniques nationally and internationally. Known for his detailed approach and commitment to personalized care, Dr. Pittman seamlessly integrates technical expertise with an empathetic understanding of his patients. Choosing Dr. Pittman for breast reduction means entrusting your care to a compassionate expert who delivers exceptional results.
Arrange a Breast Reduction Consultation in Washington, D.C.
Take the first step toward a more comfortable and confident you by arranging a breast reduction consultation with Dr. Troy Pittman, a skilled and experienced board-certified plastic surgeon at Somenek+PittmanMD: Advanced Plastic Surgery. Dr. Pittman will walk you through the details of the breast reduction procedure, discuss your goals, and explain the steps required for preparation.
To schedule your consultation, call us at (202) 810-7700. Let us help you achieve the balance, comfort, and confidence you deserve.
Check out some of our work in these before and after galleries for breast reduction.
