Breast Reduction

Breast reduction surgery is designed to relieve physical discomfort and improve quality of life by reducing breast size and lifting the breasts into a more balanced, comfortable position.

Many patients choose this procedure to address symptoms such as back and neck pain, shoulder grooving from bra straps and chronic skin irritation. Breast reduction is one of the most commonly performed procedures in plastic surgery and is often covered by insurance when certain criteria are met. 

At North Mississippi Health Services, our plastic surgery team focuses on safe, personalized care to help you feel more comfortable and confident in your body.

What is breast reduction surgery?

Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin to create a smaller breast size while lifting and reshaping the breast. The procedure also repositions the nipple to a higher, natural position for improved contour and balance. 

In addition to physical relief, many patients report significant improvements in daily comfort and mobility after surgery.

Who may benefit from breast reduction?

Breast reduction may be right for you if you:

• Experience back, neck or shoulder pain related to breast size
• Have shoulder indentation from bra straps
• Deal with chronic rashes or skin irritation under the breasts
• Feel limited in physical activity or exercise
• Are seeking both size reduction and a lifted appearance

Insurance coverage may be available, but specific requirements vary and often depend on the amount of tissue removed and your overall health profile.

What to Expect During Surgery

The Procedure

Breast reduction surgery is performed in the operating room, typically as an outpatient procedure, meaning you return home the same day. 

Your surgeon will remove excess tissue and reshape the breast using a technique that also lifts and repositions the nipple for a natural result. 

Incisions & Scarring

Most breast reductions use a “wise pattern” or anchor-shaped incision. This allows the surgeon to remove tissue and reshape the breast effectively. 

Scars are expected, but they typically fade over time and are placed to be as discreet as possible.

Recovery & Healing

Right After Surgery

• No surgical drains are typically required
• You will wear a soft, supportive surgical bra
• Walking is encouraged soon after surgery

Returning to Daily Life

• Avoid lifting more than 10 pounds for about six weeks
• Avoid raising arms above shoulder level early in recovery
• Plan for about two to four weeks off work depending on activity level
• More physically demanding jobs may require up to six weeks of recovery 

Your care team will guide you through each step of recovery to support safe healing.

Risks and Safety Considerations

All surgeries carry risk, and your surgeon will review these with you during your consultation. Risks specific to breast reduction may include:

• Differences in breast size or shape (asymmetry)
• Changes in nipple sensation
• Difficulty or inability to breastfeed
• Wound healing concerns or scarring
• Infection
• Rare complications affecting the nipple
• Anesthesia-related risks such as blood clots 

Our team takes steps to reduce risk and support your safety before, during and after surgery.

Preparing for Surgery

Smoking and Nicotine Use

Nicotine reduces blood flow and can affect healing. Patients must stop smoking and avoid nicotine products for at least four weeks before and after surgery. 

Screening and Health Requirements

Patients over age 40 typically need an up-to-date screening mammogram before surgery. Those with a personal or family history of breast cancer may require earlier screening. 

Your surgeon will review all preparation steps with you during your consultation.

Follow-Up and Ongoing Care

You will have scheduled follow-up visits to monitor healing and ensure the best possible outcome. Your care team will provide detailed instructions for wound care, activity and when to contact the clinic.