Breast Reduction

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Pasadena, CA

Breast Reduction Dr. Caroline Min

Breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) is a procedure that reduces the breast size while also reshaping and lifting the breasts to enhance comfort and create a perkier appearance. Large breasts (macromastia) are associated with a range of physical challenges, including neck, back, and shoulder pain. Some women also suffer from rashes along the breast fold or struggle with improper posture.

Dr. Caroline Min is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is well-known for her transformative breast enhancement procedures. Whether you are simply dissatisfied with the size of your breasts or they are affecting your quality of life, breast reduction can rebalance your proportions and improve your overall sense of well-being.

Contact Dr. Min’s office using the online form, or call (626) 737-9001 to learn more about how the procedure can enhance your quality of life.

Before and After Photos

Breast Reduction Before & After Patient #1729
Breast Reduction Before & After Patient #1729
Breast Reduction Before & After Patient #1731
Breast Reduction Before & After Patient #1731
Breast Reduction Before & After Patient #1730
Breast Reduction Before & After Patient #1730
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About Breast Reduction

Breast reduction has helped thousands of patients feel and look better by addressing uncomfortably large breasts; in 2023 alone, specialists performed the procedure more than 76,000 times. (1) Whether you have always struggled with large breasts or you have experienced changes in breast size after pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or breastfeeding, a breast reduction can help you feel more comfortable. (2)

Breast reduction has helped many patients struggling with:

  • Back, neck, and shoulder pain
  • Skin irritation and rashes
  • Poor posture from the weight of large breasts
  • Imbalanced body proportions
  • Difficulty with fitting into clothes
  • Difficulty with certain types of exercise

With breast reduction, Dr. Min can substantially reduce your cup size while simultaneously lifting the breasts for a perkier appearance. Excess skin is removed, the nipple is repositioned higher and the areola size can also be reduced to improve the overall appearance of the breast. Discreet incisions are placed along the breastfolds and around the areola for a natural-looking result.

Male Breast Reduction

Men with enlarged breasts (gynecomastia) can also benefit from breast reduction. Dr. Min can remove the excess breast tissue and sculpt the chest for a more defined, masculine appearance. After treating gynecomastia with a male breast reduction, men can enjoy results that leave them feeling more confident with how their chest looks.

Benefits

There are several benefits of breast reduction, including:

  • Increased comfort: Reducing the size of your breasts can alleviate back, neck, and shoulder pain.
  • Improved posture: Breast reduction can improve your posture and allow you to stop hunching over from the weight of your breasts.
  • Better ability to exercise: Reducing the size of your breasts can improve your mobility and make it easier for you to participate in different types of exercise.
  • Improved breast symmetry: If you have asymmetrical breasts, Dr. Min can customize your procedure to achieve a more balanced look. (3)
  • More clothing options: You can enjoy better-fitting bras and be able wear a wider variety of clothing styles.
  • Increased self-confidence: You will experience a boost in self-esteem when you are more comfortable with your body image.
  • Fewer rashes: Removing droopy skin can reduce friction and rashes beneath the breastfold to improve your quality of life.

Candidates

Suitable candidates for breast reduction should be in good health and practice healthy lifestyle choices. Significant weight fluctuations may affect the results of a breast reduction, so ideal patients should be at a stable weight before considering this procedure.

Although there is no age limit for breast reduction surgery, candidates must have fully developed breasts. If you are planning to become pregnant or are currently pregnant, we will likely recommend that you wait until because pregnancy can affect your results.

Personal Consultation

During your consultation, Dr. Min will perform a physical examination and ask about your current medications, medical history, and lifestyle to determine the best treatment plan for your needs. She can also discuss the most effective surgical techniques based on the shape of your breasts, your aesthetic goals, and your underlying anatomy. (4) Please come prepared to discuss your aesthetic goals openly so Dr. Min can recommend additional procedures if needed. To learn more about additional procedures, see our guide!

Preparation

To prepare for breast reduction, you will need to:

  • Avoid taking medications and supplements that thin your blood
  • Stop smoking
  • Have a mammogram done within a year of your surgery if you are age 40 or older.
  • Arrange for someone you trust to drive you home
  • Prepare your home for your recovery
  • Fill prescriptions ahead of time
  • Prepare to take 1-2 weeks off from work.

Types of Breast Reduction

Dr. Min can perform two different types of incisions, depending on your anatomy and specific treatment plan:

  • Lollipop incision: She can reshape the breasts with an incision along the edge of the areola that extends vertically to the lower breastfold.
  • Anchor-shaped incision: She can make an incision around the areola that extends vertically down to the breast crease and horizontally along the inframammary crease.

Over time, the incisions typically fade into your skin, and Dr. Min will provide aftercare instructions to support you during your recovery as well as recommendations on scar treatment for the best results.

Liposuction Only Breast Reduction

This type of reduction is much less commonly performed. To remove fatty breast tissue, Dr. Min can perform liposuction. First, she will infuse the fatty tissue with tumescent fluid–a combination of lidocaine, saline, and epinephrine that allows for easier removal of fat. She will remove the fat with a thin cannula, using a specialized technique to preserve the surrounding tissue and minimize downtime. This technique avoids scars on the breast since skin is not removed. However, the amount of reduction that can be achieved with this approach is limited.

Recovery

Breast Reduction Dr. Caroline Min

Breast reduction is an outpatient procedure and you may return home after being monitored in the recovery room. You must have a responsible adult drive you home. You may experience some swelling, bruising, or mild discomfort during the first phase of your recovery. Recovery time varies, but most patients can expect to return to light activities within 2-3 weeks and resume most normal activities a few weeks after that. We do encourage gentle movements throughout recovery to promote healthy blood flow.

You must follow up with the office during your recovery so Dr. Min can monitor your progress.

Results

After breast reduction surgery, you can enjoy an immediate improvement in the shape and size of your breasts, but the final results will take some time to settle in. Many patients enjoy better balance in body proportions and improved self-confidence after the procedure. You will feel lighter and more comfortable fairly quickly. Maintaining a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle will be important for long-lasting results. Significant weight fluctuations may affect the results of your breast reduction.

The Cost of Breast Reduction in Pasadena

The cost of breast reduction will depend on your treatment plan and your aesthetic goals. During your consultation, we can provide an all-inclusive quote. Don’t wait to improve your quality of life with a breast reduction. It can transform your figure and help you find the relief you’ve been looking for.

Contact our office using our online form or call (626) 737-9001 to learn more!

FAQ

How Is Breast Reduction Surgery Performed?

Breast reduction surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes incisions to remove excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin. The nipple-areola complex is repositioned and the breasts are reshaped for a more balanced appearance. In some cases, liposuction may be used to further refine the contours.

Will Breast Reduction Surgery Leave Scars?

Yes, breast reduction surgery will result in some scars. The extent and visibility of scars depend on the surgical technique used. Common incision types include the anchor-shaped incision (around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and along the crease) or the “lollipop” technique (scar around the areola and vertical only.. Scars typically fade over time and post-operative scar care instructions will be provided to optimize the healing process.

How Long Is The Recovery Period After Breast Reduction Surgery?

Recovery time varies, but most patients can expect to return to light activities within a week and resume normal activities within a few weeks. Strenuous activities such as gym exercise should be avoided for 4 weeks.

Are There Risks Associated With Breast Reduction Surgery?

Like any surgical procedure, breast reduction surgery carries potential risks, including infection, bleeding, changes in nipple sensation, and scarring. Your surgeon will discuss these risks during the consultation and steps will be taken to minimize them.

Will Breast Reduction Surgery Affect My Ability To Breastfeed?

Breast reduction surgery can impact the ability to breastfeed. While some women can still breastfeed after the procedure, others may experience a reduction in milk supply. It’s important to discuss your plans for breastfeeding with your surgeon during the consultation to understand potential implications.

What Is The Recommended Age Range For Breast Reduction Patients?

Breast reduction surgery is generally recommended for individuals who have fully developed breasts, which is typically after the age of 18. There is no upper age limit as long as you are in overall good health, and the procedure can be performed at various stages of life when symptoms and concerns arise.

Can Breast Reduction Surgery Be Combined With Other Procedures?

Yes, breast reduction surgery can be combined with other procedures, such as a liposuction for additional shaping or a tummy tuck as part of a mommy makeover. The combination of procedures will depend on individual goals and circumstances.

How Long Do The Results Of Breast Reduction Surgery Last?

The results of breast reduction surgery are generally long-lasting. However, factors such as aging, weight fluctuations, and pregnancy can impact the outcome over time. Maintaining a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle can contribute to the longevity of the results.

References

  1. American Society of Plastic Surgeons ® Endorsed Partner. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/news/statistics/2023/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2023.pdf
  2. Sadiq KO, Ruiz Cota P, Creamer R, Mahedia M, Dobke MK. Reduction mammaplasty relieves depression in women with macromastia: A systematic review. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery. 2024;99:502-505. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjps.2024.10.011
  3. Purohit S. Reduction mammoplasty. Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery: Official Publication of the Association of Plastic Surgeons of India. 2008;41(Suppl):S64-S79. Accessed March 7, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2825129/
  4. Waltho D, Gallo L, Gallo M, et al. Outcomes and Outcome Measures in Breast Reduction Mammaplasty: A Systematic Review. Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2019;40(4):383-391. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjz308