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Breast reduction can offer relief from the physical discomfort caused by large breasts. The procedure can also improve the size and shape of the breasts.

While breast reduction can be performed at any age it is recommended that the procedure be undertaken only when breast development has stopped. Childbirth and breast-feeding can have a significant effect on the size and shape of your breasts. Though some women decide to have breast reduction before having children, you should discuss any plans to breast-feed with Dr. Archer.

In assessing you as a candidate for breast reduction, Dr. Archer will carefully check the size and shape of your breasts, the quality of your skin, and the placement of the nipples and areolas. 

Because Dr. Archer desires the breasts to look as good as possible following surgery, usually liposuction, mastopexy, and possibly a wedge resection from the bottom of the breast is used to make the breasts smaller and avoid the long and usually unattractive scar in the crease of the breasts.

After breast tissue, fat and skin are removed, the nipple and areola are moved to a higher position. Skin that was located above the nipple pre-surgery is pulled down and together to give a new shape to the breast. Liposuction may also be employed to contour under the arm.

Because the nipples and areolas remain attached to the breast tissue, sensation in this area is preserved. While breast-feeding may still be possible, this cannot be guaranteed.


There are seldom complications from breast reduction surgery. However, some of the possible complications include bleeding, infection and reactions to anesthesia.

The breasts may not be symmetrical or nipple height may vary after surgery. Loss of sensation in the nipples or breasts may be permanent though this is rare.

Several days after surgery you will be able to move about comfortably. You will be instructed to wear a support bra for a few weeks, until the swelling and discoloration of your breasts diminishes. Incisions will be red at first and will stay this way for many months following surgery.

After breast reduction surgery, it is often possible to return to work within just a couple of weeks. Often, normal activities can be resumed after several weeks. You may, however, continue to experience some mild discomfort during the first 8 weeks