Breast Reduction Surgery in Los Angeles
Overly large breasts, also known as macromastia, can lead to a variety of health problems and daily discomfort. Women with large breasts often experience chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain, as well as deep grooves in the shoulders from bra straps due to excess weight.
The extra skin and tissue beneath the breasts can also cause rashes and skin irritation. Many women find it difficult to exercise comfortably or find properly fitting clothing. Breast reduction surgery in Los Angeles can significantly improve these issues by removing excess skin and breast tissue.
In addition to reducing breast size, a breast lift is performed during the procedure to create a more youthful, perky, and proportionate breast appearance.
Who Is a Candidate for Breast Reduction?
Many women meet with breast reduction specialists when symptoms and daily limitations persist and they want a clear plan for relief and improved comfort.
You may be a candidate for breast reduction surgery if overly large breasts are causing ongoing physical symptoms or daily limitations. Dr. Hirsch serves patients in Sherman Oaks and throughout the Los Angeles area.
Common concerns can include:
- Chronic neck, back, or shoulder pain
- Shoulder grooves from bra straps
- Rashes or skin irritation beneath the breasts
- Difficulty exercising comfortably
- Trouble finding properly fitting clothing or bras
During your breast reduction consultation with plastic surgeon Dr. Hirsch, we’ll review your medical history, discuss your ideal breast size, and explain the details of the breast reduction procedure and recovery. You can also request a consultation online.
What Happens During the Breast Reduction Procedure
During the breast reduction procedure with Dr. Hirsch, the technique used depends on each patient’s anatomy, breast size, and treatment goals. Several approaches may be considered to safely remove excess tissue while improving breast shape.
Surgical techniques may include a vertical breast reduction, donut reduction, or the most common approach, the inverted-T or anchor pattern (also known as the Wise pattern). In some cases, liposuction may also be used to further contour the breast shape and create a balanced result.
Benefits of Breast Reduction Surgery
The benefits of breast reduction surgery can include both physical relief and aesthetic improvement. Many patients experience immediate improvement in symptoms and long-term quality of life benefits.
- Relief from chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain
- Improved posture and physical comfort
- Easier participation in exercise and physical activity
- Better-fitting clothing and bras
How Breast Reduction Can Relieve Pain and Improve Quality of Life
By removing excess skin and breast tissue, breast reduction surgery can reduce the physical strain that contributes to chronic discomfort. For many women, this can lead to meaningful relief from back, neck, and shoulder pain, as well as fewer issues with shoulder grooves and skin irritation beneath the breasts.
Beyond physical relief, breast reduction surgery may improve confidence and overall quality of life. Many patients also find it easier to be active and more comfortable in clothing once their breast size is reduced and reshaped. You can view breast reduction before and after photos to see real patient results.
Breast Reduction Recovery
Breast reduction recovery is typically straightforward. The procedure is often performed as an outpatient surgery, allowing most patients to return home the same day. Recovery is generally smooth, with pain or discomfort usually remaining minimal.
Many women are able to return to normal daily activities within 1–2 weeks. Dr. Hirsch provides detailed post-operative instructions to support proper healing and a comfortable recovery.
- Week 1: Rest and focus on following your post-operative instructions. Keep activity light and allow your body time to heal.
- Week 2: Many patients are able to return to normal daily activities as recovery progresses, depending on the type of work and comfort level.
- Weeks 3–6: Gradually increase activity as directed by Dr. Hirsch. Strenuous exercise is typically resumed later in recovery, based on how healing is progressing.
Recovery Guidelines
- Keep activity light early on and follow your post-operative instructions
- Avoid heavy lifting until cleared by Dr. Hirsch
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing
- Gradually resume exercise based on how healing is progressing
For existing patients, please download post-operative instructions
Insurance Coverage and Care
Insurance coverage for breast reduction can vary depending on your plan and the facility used. In many cases, breast reduction may be covered by insurance when it’s deemed medically necessary. If you are exploring insurance approval, reviewing your specific PPO plan requirements can help you understand what documentation may be needed and what criteria your plan may use.
Dr. Hirsch serves patients from Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley, the Conejo Valley, and throughout California, as well as nationally and internationally. He is able to work with most major PPO insurance plans, including Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare, depending on the facility used.
Breast Reduction Videos
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Patient Reviews
I can’t speak more highly of Dr. Hirsch and his office team! I got a breast reduction about a month ago. The day of surgery went smoothly. The team at Tarzana hospital was amazing. Since then any question or concern I have over post-op has been answered in a matter of hours by Dr. Hirsch or Brittany. They have been amazing and I really couldn’t be happier with his work. Everything looks great and I very highly recommend him!
– Sami M.
Doctor Hirsch and his entire team are truly amazing! They went out if their way to get my daughter in before year end. Always greeted us with a smile and answers. Surgery day went super smooth and stress free. Tarzana Hospital was amazing as well. Now his work…. amazing, one clean line no post op issues, issues. Nothing! Her breasts look amazing so far after almost 10 Days. A million thanks Dr. Hirsch, Karla you ROCK and to the entire staff…. thank you for making her dream come true so beautifully.
– Penny D.
Frequently Asked Questions
Breast Reduction in Los Angeles
What is the difference between a breast lift and a breast reduction?
A breast lift (mastopexy) and a breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) are similar in that both procedures involve lifting the nipple and reshaping the breast. The main difference is that breast reduction surgery involves removing a significant amount of breast tissue, making the breasts smaller, while a breast lift only removes excess skin and a small amount of tissue to create a more youthful contour. Both procedures address sagging, but breast reduction is typically performed when a patient wants smaller, lighter breasts.
Click here to learn more about breast lift
What will my scars look like after breast reduction surgery?
The type of scarring after a breast reduction depends on how much breast tissue is removed and your specific surgical plan. The most common scar patterns include:
- Vertical Scar: A scar around the nipple that extends vertically down the breast.
- Anchor Scar: A scar around the nipple, vertically down the breast, and horizontally along the breast crease.
Dr. Hirsch will discuss the best approach for your surgery and what to expect for scarring during your consultation at our Sherman Oaks plastic surgery office. Over time, scars typically fade and become less noticeable.
What will happen to my nipple sensation after breast reduction surgery?
Nipple sensation after breast reduction surgery can vary. Some patients experience increased sensitivity, while others notice a decrease in sensation. The outcome depends on how much tissue is removed and the specifics of the surgery. In most cases, changes in sensation are temporary, but permanent changes are possible.
How do I keep my breasts as perky as possible after breast reduction surgery?
To maintain perky, lifted breasts after breast reduction surgery in Sherman Oaks, Dr. Hirsch may recommend using internal support, such as Galaflex mesh. This dissolvable mesh acts like an internal bra, providing additional support, especially for patients with thinner skin or older patients. The mesh dissolves over time but leaves behind extra support to help maintain the breast’s shape after your breast reduction.
To learn more about Galaflex mesh, feel free to browse the following page Galaflex Mesh (opens in a new tab)
Is breast reduction surgery covered by insurance?
Yes, breast reduction with Dr. Hirsch may be covered by insurance if it is deemed medically necessary. Anthem Blue Shield, Blue Cross, Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare consider symptoms such as chronic back, neck, or shoulder pain, rashes, or difficulties with physical activity that may qualify you for insurance coverage. Dr. Hirsch’s office in Sherman Oaks will work with you to confirm whether your procedure is covered by your insurance plan. Dr. Hirsch is able to work with most major PPO insurance companies on an in-network basis, depending on the facility that is used. Dr. Hirsch operates at Avalon Surgery Center in Glendale and Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center.
Learn more about insurance coverage of breast reduction surgery.
Will I be able to breastfeed after my breast reduction surgery?
Breastfeeding after breast reduction surgery is possible for many women, but the ability to breastfeed depends on how much breast tissue remains. Studies suggest a majority of women can successfully breastfeed after the procedure, but supplementation with formula may be needed. Dr. Hirsch will discuss your specific case during your consultation at his Sherman Oaks plastic surgery office.
When can I start exercising again after my breast reduction surgery?
You can start light activity, such as walking, the same day you come home after breast reduction procedure. Avoid prolonged bed rest to reduce the risk of blood clots. More strenuous activities, including exercise, can typically be resumed after 4-6 weeks, once your incisions have fully healed. Dr. Hirsch will provide a personalized timeline based on your recovery after your Sherman Oaks breast reduction surgery.
When can I go back to work after my breast reduction surgery?
Most patients return to work about 1-2 weeks after breast reduction surgery in Sherman Oaks, depending on how physically demanding their job is. Dr. Hirsch will give you personalized recommendations based on your recovery progress and job requirements.
Will I have drains after breast reduction surgery?
Dr. Hirsch may use drains during your Los Angeles breast reduction surgery, depending on how much tissue is removed. If drains are placed, you will be given detailed instructions on how to care for them and track their output. Drains are typically removed within a few days, and you can shower normally with them in place after your Sherman Oaks breast reduction.
To learn more about breast reduction, feel free to browse the following link: American Society of Plastic Surgeons Breast Reduction Page
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