What Is Breast Reduction Surgery?

Large, pendulous breasts can lead to neck and back pain, make certain physical activities difficult, and even lead to emotional anxiety. A mammoplasty, commonly referred to as a breast reduction, is a surgical procedure that can make the breasts smaller, firmer, and lighter. During a breast reduction, excess fat, skin, and tissue are removed from the breasts, which alleviates pain and makes the breasts appear more proportionate to one's body size. Click here to learn more of the benefits of breast reduction surgery.

Breast Reduction Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon

Double board-certified Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Firouz can help you achieve the breast reduction surgery results that you are looking for. He understands that each patient is unique and has a different view of what they want their breasts to look like. During your initial consultation, the surgeon will explain the breast reduction surgery process, what preparations need to be made as well as post-operative care instructions.

Reasons for Undergoing Mammoplasty

Each woman has her own reasons for wanting to reduce the size of her breasts. Plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Firouz may determine that a breast reduction is appropriate in cases where the woman is experiencing:

  • breast sagging caused by large breast size;
  • neck, shoulder, or back pain;
  • difficulty participating in physical activities;
  • painful marks from bra straps; or
  • breasts that are out of proportion to their body size.

What to Expect During Mammoplasty Surgery

Based on the patient's situation and desired goals, the specific breast reduction technique may vary. For example, it may consist of surgical excision alone or in combination with liposuction where beneficial to the patient and dependent on her body type. To determine the most appropriate technique, the surgeon will consider the composition of the patient's breasts as well as the desired amount of breast reduction. In most cases, an incision will be made around the areola that will extend to underneath the curve of the breast. Once the excess tissue, skin, and fat are removed, the areola and nipple are repositioned and secured in place with sutures. The results of the breast reduction are noticeable almost immediately following surgery. As a result, patients enjoy a more proportionate body, less physical discomfort, and increased self-esteem.

Recovery After Mammoplasty Procedure

Complications following breast reduction surgery are unusual; however, it is important to follow the surgeon's post-surgical instructions closely to ensure proper healing and to minimize the possibility of any problems or complications. Patients are encouraged to rest as much as possible following the procedure and to limit their physical movement to prevent damage to the incisions. Immediately following the surgery, the breasts will be heavily bandaged to promote healing and limit breast movement. Once the incisions are healed, the bandages can be removed. At this point, patients typically wear a prescription surgical bra for several weeks to provide additional support as the breast tissue continues to heal. Minor discomfort and bruising are normal following any surgical procedure. In most cases, any discomfort is easily managed with over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers.

Women considering a breast reduction should consult with an experienced plastic surgeon before deciding to proceed with the procedure. Beverly Hills breast reduction surgeon Dr. Firouz's experience and expertise allows him to select the right surgical option for each patient's unique needs. With the right mammoplasty process, patients are able to enjoy less discomfort and a better quality of life.

To learn more about breast reduction surgery, please contact our office for a consultation today at 310-274-4321.

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Breast Reduction in Your Late Teens or 20s

To learn more about Breast Reduction, call - 310-274-4321 to schedule your consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Firouz.

How Can We Help?

If you would like to request an appointment or have any questions about our practice and procedures, please call us at (310) 274-4321 or request an appointment by filling out the form below.

Beverly Hills Breast Reduction Surgery FAQs

Dr. Firouz understands that every patient has questions and concerns that need to be addressed regarding their potential Beverly Hills breast reduction surgery. Listed below, please find the questions that we hear most often regarding breast reduction, breast augmentation, and breast lift. If you have any additional questions that aren’t answered on this website, please contact Dr. Firouz today. He will be happy to discuss your every concern with you during your initial consult regarding breast reduction at his Beverly Hills office.

  • Q: Is breast reduction surgery permanent?

    A: Yes, breast reduction surgery is considered permanent. However, should the patient gain weight or become pregnant, it is possible for swelling and sagging to occur again.
  • Q: Am I a good candidate for a Beverly Hills breast reduction?

    A: If you have ever felt self conscious about the way your breasts look or make you feel, it’s possible that you would be a great candidate for breast reduction surgery. Another reason for choosing breast reduction surgery is to alleviate health issues such as back pain, neck pain and shoulder pain.
  • Q: Is breast reduction surgery painful?

    A: Dr. Firouz performs breast reduction surgery under general anesthesia, so the surgery itself isn’t painful. After breast reduction surgery, a patient may feel some discomfort. Bruising and swelling may occur after your surgery, but should go away within a week.
  • Q: What is the cost of Beverly Hills breast reduction surgery?

    A: The price of breast reduction surgery varies from patient to patient. During your initial consult with Dr. Firouz, pricing will be discussed. There are various financing options that may help you pay for your breast reduction, as well as checking with your insurance company to see if any portion of it will be covered.
  • Q: When will I see results following my breast reduction?

    A: In just a few weeks following your surgery, the swelling and bruising should subside. In the coming months, your breasts will begin to look even better.
  • Q: Who should perform breast reduction surgery?

    A: A board certified plastic surgeon or reconstructive plastic surgeon is always the best choice to perform any breast reduction surgery. Dr. Jimmy Firouz is a Beverly Hills board certified plastic surgeon, specializing in breast reduction procedures.
  • Q: What is the recovery time following a breast reduction?

    A: It’s possible to return to your normal activities in just a couple of weeks. However, each patient is different, and depending on how your body reacts to the surgery will determine how soon you can begin to participate in your daily life activities. It’s always important to get plenty of rest following your surgery.  
  • Q: Are there any side effects or risks of breast reduction?

    A: Generally, patients experience mild discomfort following their surgery. It’s completely normal for swelling and bruising to occur after your breast reduction. If you’re experiencing any extraordinary symptoms, it’s important to contact your surgeon to assure that everything is going as planned.
  • Q: Do you have scars after breast reduction surgery?

    A: As with any surgical procedure, scarring is likely to occur. However, Dr. Firouz is an expert at performing breast reductions in Beverly Hills. His extensive background in breast augmentation procedures leaves his patients with minimal scarring. Dr. Firouz does all he can to eliminate potential scarring for patients.
  • Q: Can I have a Beverly Hills breast reduction and breast lift at the same time?

    A: While it is possible to undergo both surgeries at the same time, it’s also possible to have the surgeries completed in stages–one before the other. If you’re considering both a Beverly Hills breast lift and a Beverly Hills breast reduction, Dr. Firouz will sit down with you to discuss your options and the best way to go about achieving your desired look.

Questions Asked by Our Patients.

Dr. Firouz often answers questions from people like you on RealSelf.com. We thought these Breast Reduction questions and answers might be useful for you as well!

  • Is it reasonable to go from a 34DD cup to a 34B cup in a breast reduction surgery?

    I suffer from back pain and insecurity from breasts, 5 ft 2 in, 120 pounds, 19 years old.

    To give you the most appropriate answer to this question I would need to examine you in person. Yes it is possible and reasonable to reduce your breasts this much, but I like to examine patients and listen to their reasons and goals for breast reduction surgery before determining how much to reduce the breasts. Also remember that cup sizes vary from brand to brand, so you want to have a thorough conversation with your surgeon to make sure you are both on the same page about what size you want your breasts to be after surgery. Your next step should be to consult in person with a board certified plastic surgeon and find out what they think is an appropriate amount of reduction. Best of luck!

  • Can I have multiple breast reductions done?

    Right now I am a 38 DD – DDD I’m not sure which one I am to be completely honest. I was just wondering if after I go down from that size to a C cup, how long do I have to wait to go down to a 32B + a lift, to prevent scaring and other problems? Would I be able to have these procedures done in the same year? Or do I need to wait?

    The final results you want (B cup size and a breast lift) are most likely achievable in just one surgery; however I would need to examine you in person to give you a final answer. There is no reason to put your body through two surgeries when it can be completed in just one operation. You should consult with a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast reduction surgery to learn more about how your desired results can be achieved. Good luck!

  • I am 3 weeks post op and don’t think any swelling has gone down. Is that normal?

    My breasts feel hard and swollen. The sides hurt and the underneath scar feels thick. I know I must have gone down in size but I fill my old bras because of swelling. I was a DDD before and my surgeon only took out 400 grams that does not sound like a lot. Am I really swollen or still really big?

    Swelling and firmness at 3 weeks post-breast reduction is generally normal. However, for peace of mind and proper follow-up, you should call your surgeon’s office and confirm with him/her that you are healing properly. Every patient heals differently, so it is important to make sure that the swelling and firmness you are experiencing are just part of the healing stages.

  • What should be done first, nipple inversion correction or breast reduction surgery?

    I have one inverted nipple and a 34g cup that I want reduced. Which surgery should I consider first to get the best results and not compromise the results with additional surgeries?

    These two procedures can be performed safely in just one surgery. You should consult in person with a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience with both of these procedures. Upon examination, the surgeon will be able to tell you if you are a good candidate for having both procedures at the same time. Best of luck!

  • Can I get a breast reduction before weight loss?

    My breasts make it impossible to work out without immense pain. I’m a 5’5 woman, about 200lb, and I wear a 38HH bra. My breasts are very large + heavy, causing my back, shoulders, and shoulder blades to hurt to the point I become unable to work out. Is it an option to have my breasts reduced prior to weight loss? (Target weight of 140).

    Women with very large breasts often times are not able to work out at all to lose weight, and they end up being stuck overweight; it is unfortunately a vicious cycle. When this is the case, perhaps the patient can diet but exercise is mostly out of the question. So I actually tell patients to get a breast reduction now so that they are able to exercise and lose weight. However, some patients may end up needing some kind of revision in the future if their breasts do become saggy and they aren’t happy with the shape anymore. But I can say that in my practice it is very rare that a patient seeks out or requires a second surgery. Hope that helps!

  • How to talk to doctor about breast reduction?

    I want to start probing my doctor to find out if I’m a candidate for breast reduction. I don’t even know where to start. Is that something you schedule an appointment solely for or bring up randomly. I guess I just am curious of how that is initiated.

    Breast reduction is a very common procedure so you should not be nervous about initiating a conversation about it with your doctor. I recommend finding a board certified plastic surgeon in your area who has a lot of experience with breast reduction procedures and make an appointment for a consultation with him/her. Prepare a list of questions you may have prior to your appointment so that you don’t forget anything you want to ask. Good luck!

  • I’m 45 Years Old. I am a size 32J in Bras, 5’6 and 170 lbs. Am I eligible for a Breast Reduction?

    In past 3 years I have pain in my neck and shoulder I take pain relief mediation every day.

    Based on your breast size and neck/shoulder pain, you do sound like a candidate for breast reduction surgery. Your next step should be to make an appointment to have an in-person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon who can examine you in person to truly determine if you are a good candidate for breast reduction surgery. Additionally, you will need to undergo some pre-op lab testing to ensure you are in good health for surgery. Hope that helps!

  • Appropriate size for breast reduction for 5’3?, 155lbs?

    Following bariatric surgery I’ve lost 100lbs my weight has been stable 10mo. Initially I wanted a breast lift but after seeing groove marks from my bra the surgeon and I discussed a reduction. I’m a 34H, have always had large breasts but never considered going down in size. When the surgeon was assessing my breasts I heard him say “almost a C”. My husband took that to mean a small D but I assume it means a large B/nearly C cup? What size is common for patients after reduction?

    First off, congratulations on the weight loss and maintaing your new weight! As far as the breast reduction, I would not say there is a “common size” for women after reduction surgery. I take a very individualized approach to surgery and perform each surgery to meet the needs of each patient. With that said, I spend a lot of time with my patients during their consultation so that I can learn what their goals are for surgery and explain to them in great detail what I can help them achieve with surgery. So without examining you in person, what I recommend you do is find a board certified plastic surgeon who is well experienced with breast reduction surgery. He/she should be able to tell you what kind of results YOU should expect. But ultimately the goal is to reduce and reshape your breasts so that they are proportionate to your body. Hope that helps and good luck!

  • I am a DDD, how many grams will I lose if I go down to a C?

    Without examining you in person it is difficult to say. You should schedule a consultation to speak with a surgeon so he/she can properly examine you and determine if you will qualify to have your breast reduction covered by insurance.

  • Is it best to lose weight before a breast reduction?

    Every case is different, but it is usually best to be at your ideal weight before undergoing any type of breast reduction surgery. Losing too much weight after the surgery can cause a sagging effect. Also, being at your normal weight may make a difference on your recovery time as well.

  • I’m wondering if I’m able to get get a breast reduction at my age?

    I’m age 16 and my cup size is I32. i have bad back pain, stiff shoulders, and sometimes I even have trouble breathing, I also haven’t grown for almost 2 years now.

    Based on your description of breast size and associated symptoms, such as back pain, stiff shoulders and trouble breathing, you may be a good candidate for breast reduction surgery. At 16 years old, it is possible you are ready for the procedure, but this must be determined in-person with a board certified plastic surgeon. When considering breast reduction surgery as a teenager, not only is it important to wait to have the procedure until your breasts are fully developed (this is different for every young woman), but it is also important to make sure you are mentally and emotionally ready for surgery and that you have a strong support system from your parents. I highly recommend making a few appointments with board certified plastic surgeons so that you can be examined in person and learn more about the surgery from the doctor. You will want to make sure you feel comfortable and truly trust your plastic surgeon so that they surgery goes as smooth as possible. This is a big decision for any woman and you should be well-educated before the procedure. Good luck!