Breast Reduction – Women

Dr. Epstein has performed thousands of breast reduction procedures with beautiful, natural results. In the paragraphs below he describes the procedure, how breast reduction is performed and the expected recovery.

What is a Breast Reduction?

Excessively large breasts can be uncomfortable, restrict certain activities and cause back pain.  A breast reduction reduces overdeveloped breasts by removing fat, glandular tissue and skin from the breast, making them smaller, lighter, and firmer, and allowing them to be in proportion with the rest of your body.

A breast reduction can be performed in conjunction with a breast lift to raise the breasts giving them a more youthful appearance.

How is a Breast Reduction performed?

Breast Reduction is an outpatient surgical procedure performed at our facility, Northbrook Plastic Surgery. There are many variations for a breast reduction, but the most common procedure is making an incision that goes around the areola, extends downward and follows the curve of the crease beneath the breast. Excess glandular tissue, fat and skin are removed and the nipple and areola are placed in their new position. The skin is then drawn together and down around the areola giving a new shape to your breast.  The procedure takes approximately 2-4 hours, but may vary depending on the complexity of the reduction.

What to expect during the recovery period:

• Immediately after surgery you may experience swelling, discomfort, bruising and tenderness, all which are easily controlled with medication
• A post-surgical sports bra must be worn for the first 2-4 weeks following surgery
• Return to light activity within 2 days post-surgery or as you feel ready
• Most patients return to work within the first week after surgery
• Full physical activity may resume within 4 to 6 weeks after surgery
• Incision lines will continue to heal and refine for 1-year post surgery

In private practice since 1992, Dr. Michael A. Epstein has received critical acclaim for his exceptional results and advanced surgical techniques.  An active member of the prestigious American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, he has been featured on numerous television programs and quoted in dozens of newspapers and magazines nationwide. A trusted resource who is highly respected by both the media and his peers, Dr. Epstein’s training, education and surgical skills have made him one of Chicagoland’s leading and most gifted plastic surgeons. His offices are in Northbrook, Illinois.