Overly large breasts can be a burden, creating both physical as well as emotional pain and trauma. Fortunately, there is hope for those looking to reduce the size of their breasts while maintaining a natural appearance. Breast reduction from Minneapolis plastic surgeon Dr. Kobienia has helped many patients in the Twin Cities attain their desired body image.

You may be a candidate for breast reduction if you suffer from one or more of the following conditions:

• Breasts that are disproportionate to the rest of your body
• Breasts that cause shoulder, back, and/or neck pain
• One breast noticeably larger than the other
• Feel self-conscious or dissatisfied with your breasts and body image
• Restricted physical activity due to the size of your breasts
• Pendulous breasts with downward pointing areolas and nipples

Dr. Kobienia performs breast reduction surgeries to reduce neck pain, back pain, and other associated symptoms. Breast reduction is very similar to the breast lift procedure, except more skin and tissue will need to be removed.

Once the patient has been anesthetized, Dr. Kobienia makes three incisions: underneath the breast, around the areola, and vertically from the areola downward to the underside of the breast. These incisions allow Dr. Kobienia access to reshape the breasts and remove excess skin and other tissues.

In many cases of breast reduction, liposuction is used to remove any excess fat under the arms and around the chest. Once the reshaping is complete, the nipple and areola can be repositioned if necessary. The incisions are then closed using sutures, tightening the skin and aiding in the lifting process as well. Breast reduction surgery usually takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on the case. Recovery can be done at home, and most patients are able to return to their normal routines within one to two weeks of their breast reduction.

For certain patients, breast reconstruction may be covered by insurance, so be sure to check with your insurance provider prior to surgery.

Dr. Kobienia in Minneapolis, MN, can give you a refreshed look through breast enhancement surgery. Please contact us online or call 612-930-1111 to schedule a personal consultation to discuss your options.

Your Breast Reduction Surgery

To begin a breast reduction procedure, Dr. Kobienia will mark your breasts where the incisions will be placed. These incisions surround each nipple and extend down to the breast crease. Through these incisions, Dr. Kobienia is able to remove excess tissue, tighten the breasts, and reposition/resize the nipples. A breast reduction naturally results in a lifted breast appearance as well due to the surgical technique.

Dr. Kobienia focuses not just on reducing breast size but also creating a very symmetrical, flattering shape to the breasts after surgery. This involves careful decision making regarding where to remove tissue and how to reshape the breasts. His goal is to create increased comfort while also creating a look that is very satisfying.

Breast reduction patients sleep comfortably through their procedure under general anesthesia. The procedure usually takes 2 to 3 hours, with additional time for surgical prep. We will give you a more detailed schedule and arrival time once you’ve booked your breast reduction.

Breast Reduction Recovery

Your recovery begins with a brief stay in our surgery suite to ensure you are back to normal after surgery and the effects of anesthesia have worn off. We will schedule a follow up appointment to check on the progress of your healing.

You will be placed in a supportive surgical bra to protect your incisions and limit movement of your breasts for the first couple of days. We will provide a post-surgery plan with details about when you will be able to add in upper body activities and exercise. You should feel pretty much like yourself a week after surgery. Decreased nipple sensitivity is common for several months after surgery, but most women return to the full degree of sensitivity they had before surgery.

To minimize the appearance of scars, it’s important to regularly apply scar cream and moisturizer. With proper care, scars can fade considerably and become nearly invisible over time. Our breast reduction patients are happy with the tradeoff – having lighter and more comfortable breasts – and many remark that they wish they had their procedure sooner!

Breast Reduction FAQs

How much does a breast reduction cost?

A breast reduction procedure is an investment in yourself, helping to reduce potential pain caused by enlarged breasts or to boost your self-confidence. The cost of your breast reduction depends on many different aspects of your procedure, including the location of your procedure, anesthesia costs, pre-surgical testing, and the experience of your surgeon.

How can I find the best plastic surgeon for a breast reduction near me?

When choosing the right surgeon for your breast reduction, there are many different factors to consider. Do you feel comfortable with the surgeon? Do they regularly perform breast reduction procedures, and can they provide you with before and after photos that match your specific body type? When meeting with a surgeon for the first time, you want to be prepared with questions and find a surgeon that will answer those questions and work to help you achieve your goals. Going through before and after photos will help you see the results the surgeon provides and if they match your desired goals.

Does a breast reduction procedure hurt?

You will be under general anesthesia during your breast reduction procedure, so you should not feel any pain or discomfort. After your procedure, you may experience discomfort as your body heals, but this can be managed with pain medication and rest.

How long is breast reduction recovery?

Breast reduction recovery depends on a variety of different factors such as the extent of the reduction, whether it was combined with another procedure, and how your individual body heals. In general, you should plan on two to three weeks for recovery, though swelling can last a few months post-procedure.

When will I see my breast reduction results?

After your breast reduction procedure, your breasts will be swollen as they continue to heal. However, over the next few months, the swelling will subside, and you will begin to see a difference, with the final results appearing within 6 to 12 months after your procedure.

What risks are involved with breast reduction surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, a breast reduction does come with possible risks that can include infection, allergic reactions, and excessive bleeding. Your surgeon will go over your complete medical history before your procedure and address any concerns that may affect your procedure and recovery.

Can I combine other procedures with my breast reduction?

Women with large breasts often experience sagging due to the increased weight and volume of the breasts. Because of this, it is often common for women to combine a breast reduction with a breast lift. Adding a breast lift can help by tightening the surrounding tissue, giving the breasts a more youthful and perky appearance. This procedure can also help reshape the remaining breast tissue to improve breast shape, as well as address the nipple and areola position.

How can I prepare for my breast reduction procedure?

Before you schedule your breast reduction procedure, you will need to talk with your surgeon about specific requirements. Generally, before your procedure you will want to:

• Quit smoking
• Stop taking any blood thinning medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or herbal supplements
• Schedule a baseline mammogram before your breast reduction
• Get the necessary lab work and medical evaluation before your procedure