Breast Reduction
in Boston, MA

Many women struggle with physical discomfort and self-consciousness due to overly large breasts, leading them to explore breast reduction surgery as a solution. Common concerns include chronic back pain, difficulty finding clothing that fits properly, skin irritation, and limitations in physical activity. Beyond physical issues, some patients seek relief from emotional and social challenges, such as feeling self-conscious about body proportions or experiencing unwanted attention.

Breast reduction surgery in our Boston clinic can help address these concerns by creating a more balanced and comfortable silhouette, improving both physical well-being and overall confidence.

Table of Contents

What Is Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure that removes excess breast tissue and reshapes the breasts for a more proportionate appearance. This surgery is particularly beneficial for women who experience discomfort or physical strain from heavy breasts, as it alleviates pressure on the back, neck, and shoulders. By carefully removing and repositioning breast tissue, a reduction mammoplasty can create a lighter, more lifted, and balanced contour.

Breast Reduction Techniques

Donut (Periareolar)

The donut, or periareolar, technique is ideal for patients seeking a subtle reduction and lift. This approach involves a circular incision around the areola, allowing for the removal of a moderate amount of breast tissue and reshaping of the breast. It is best suited for women with mild sagging or those who desire minimal scarring, as the incision is discreetly placed around the natural contour of the areola.

Lollipop (Vertical)

The lollipop, or vertical, technique is a popular option for moderate breast reductions and reshaping. This approach uses a lollipop incision that encircles the areola and extends vertically down to the breast crease. This allows our surgeon to remove excess tissue, lift the breast, and achieve a more youthful, contoured shape while keeping scarring relatively minimal compared with more extensive techniques.

Anchor (Inverted-T)

The anchor, or inverted-T, technique is often recommended for patients with significant breast enlargement or sagging. This approach uses an anchor incision, which follows the natural curve around the areola, extends vertically down, and continues along the breast crease. This allows for the greatest amount of excess tissue removal and reshaping, providing a dramatic reduction and lift while accommodating patients with heavy breasts.

Breast Reduction CONSULTATION

A breast reduction consultation is the first step toward achieving a more comfortable and proportionate silhouette. During this appointment, our surgeon evaluates your overall health, discusses your goals, and examines your breast shape to determine the best approach. This visit also provides an opportunity to address any questions about breast surgery, potential outcomes, and recovery. Based on this assessment, we create a personalized treatment plan designed to meet your needs and ensure the safest, most effective results.

Breast Reduction Procedure

Breast reduction is a surgical procedure commonly performed to relieve discomfort from heavy breasts and create a more proportionate breast shape. The surgery involves removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin while reshaping the breast for improved contour and comfort.

Step 1: Anesthesia

Breast reduction is performed under either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with IV sedation, depending on the patient’s needs and the complexity of the procedure. General anesthesia ensures that patients are fully asleep and comfortable, while local anesthesia with IV sedation allows for a lighter, monitored sedation experience during surgery.

Step 2: Incisions

The type of incision used in breast reduction depends on the amount of tissue being removed and the desired results.

A periareolar incision circles the areola for smaller reductions.
A vertical incision extends from the areola down to the breast crease for moderate reductions.
An inverted-T incision combines a periareolar and vertical incision with an additional cut along the breast crease for more significant reshaping.

Step 3: Tissue Removal and Shaping

Our surgeon removes excess skin and, in some cases, excess fat from the breasts to reduce size and improve contour. The remaining tissue is carefully repositioned to achieve a natural shape and support. Special attention is given to maintaining nipple sensation while repositioning the nipple and areola to align with the new breast contour.Our surgeon removes excess skin and, in some cases, excess fat from the breasts to reduce size and improve contour. The remaining tissue is carefully repositioned to achieve a natural shape and support. Special attention is given to maintaining nipple sensation while repositioning the nipple and areola to align with the new breast contour.

Step 4: Suturing

After tissue removal and reshaping, the breasts are sutured to create a lifted, balanced appearance. Adjustments ensure that the breasts sit comfortably on the chest wall and that the overall proportion enhances both aesthetic appearance and physical comfort.

Breast Reduction Recovery

First Day

During the first 24 hours after breast reduction, patients need to rest and limit movement to support healing. A surgical bra is worn to provide stability and support, and pain medications may be prescribed to manage discomfort. Cold compresses can help reduce swelling and bruising during this initial period.

Week 1

During week 1 of the recovery process, patients may experience mild to moderate swelling and soreness. Most patients can perform basic daily activities but should avoid heavy lifting or sudden movements. Wearing the surgical bra as directed continues to support healing and maintain breast shape.

Weeks 2 to 4

Over the next several weeks, swelling begins to decrease, and patients can gradually reintroduce light exercise, such as walking. Pain medications are often reduced or no longer needed. Incisions should be monitored for proper healing, and patients are advised to follow all post-operative care instructions to minimize the risk of complications.

Long-Term Recovery

Candidates for Breast Reduction

Many women suffer from physical discomfort or self-consciousness due to enlarged breasts. Common symptoms include back, neck, and shoulder pain, bra-strap grooving, and difficulty participating in physical activity. Breast reduction can be an excellent option for such patients. Women with pendulous breasts that cause irritation or limit clothing options may also be good candidates. Additionally, some patients seek breast reduction after being dissatisfied with the result of breast augmentation, wanting a more balanced or proportionate breast size and shape.

The main requirement is that patients must be generally healthy, without severe medical conditions that could complicate surgery and recovery. Candidates should also be non-smokers or be able to quit smoking for 4 weeks before and after surgery.

Benefits of Breast Reduction

Breast reduction surgery is commonly performed to help women address issues related to the size and weight of their breasts. The procedure is typically done on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day while beginning their recovery in the comfort of their own environment.

Reduces back and neck pain caused by heavy breasts
Improves posture and physical comfort
Minimizes skin irritation and bra-strap grooving
Enhances the ability to participate in physical activity
Creates a more balanced breast shape and contour
Restores a youthful appearance to the chest
Increases confidence in clothing fit and overall appearance

Breast Reduction Cost in Boston, MA

The cost of breast reduction in Boston ranges from $7,000 to $12,000, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the techniques used. Board-certified plastic surgeons tend to charge higher fees due to their advanced training, experience, and commitment to safety and quality. Many factors can influence the total cost, including anesthesia choice, facility fees, and the extent of tissue removal or reshaping required.

Because every patient’s needs and goals are unique, the exact price of breast reduction can only be determined during a consultation. Our providers will review your individual case, discuss the recommended approach, and provide a personalized treatment plan with a precise and accurate cost estimate.

Schedule a
Consultation Today!

If you are considering plastic surgery to improve comfort and confidence, now is the time to take the first step. Our team works closely with breast reduction patients to discuss goals, evaluate breast appearance, and design a treatment plan tailored to each individual. With a focus on patient satisfaction, we ensure that every detail of the procedure supports both health and aesthetic outcomes. Whether you are seeking relief from physical discomfort or a transformation to smaller breasts, our doctors provide guidance through every stage of the process. Contact us today to learn more about this and other cosmetic procedures and to schedule your personalized consultation.

Breast Reduction FAQs

Is breast reduction surgery painful?

Most patients experience some discomfort after breast reduction surgery, but significant pain is uncommon. During the first few weeks, pain medications and proper post-operative care help manage soreness, allowing patients to focus on healing and recovery.

Will breast reduction scars be visible?

A breast reduction reduces breast size by removing excess tissue and skin, while a breast lift focuses on raising and reshaping the breast without significantly changing its volume. Both involve a surgical procedure, but the primary goal of a breast reduction is to decrease breast weight and size, whereas a lift improves position and contour.

Does the procedure correct breast asymmetry?

Breast reconstruction is a form of reconstructive surgery typically performed after breast cancer or to correct significant changes caused by trauma or congenital conditions. In contrast, breast reduction focuses on relieving discomfort and reshaping naturally enlarged breasts. Reconstruction aims to restore breast appearance and symmetry, while reduction addresses size, weight, and comfort.

What is the difference between a breast reduction and a breast lift?

Many patients notice improved symmetry after breast reduction. In some cases, one breast may require slightly more tissue removal or reshaping than the other to achieve a balanced appearance. Our surgeons carefully plan the procedure to address asymmetry and enhance overall breast shape.

What is the difference between a breast reduction and a breast reconstruction?

Breast Reduction in Boston, MA