Breast reduction is most frequently an outpatient procedure. You should plan to have someone drive you home and stay with you for the first night. Breast reduction may be performed at an accredited plastic surgeon’s outpatient surgical facility, hospital, or outpatient surgery center. You will receive general anesthesia or IV sedation for the procedure.
Your surgeon will use a pre-determined incision pattern. Incisions may be made around the colored skin surrounding the nipple (areola), around the areola and straight down to the breast crease, or in an anchor pattern around the areola if the nipple and areola are to be repositioned. The breast tissue is removed surgically, with liposuction, or by using both methods. Enlarged areolas may be reduced and repositioned higher on the breast. Deep layered sutures are used to create internal support.
At the end of the procedure, temporary drainage tubes may be inserted to remove excess fluid and promote healing. The incisions in the skin are closed with stitches, tape, or surgical adhesive. The area is gently wrapped with bandages.
You will receive medication for post procedure pain and specific instructions for wound care. You will wear a surgical support bra or elastic bandage to support your breasts. Your stitches will be removed at several follow-up appointments. Your doctor will gradually increase your activity level. It may take time for swelling to resolve and several months for incision lines to fade. The results of your procedure are immediately visible.