Los Angeles Breast Reduction

Overly large breasts, or macromastia, can cause significant health problems. Large breasts can cause back and neck pain, and the excess weight of the breasts can lead to grooving from bra straps. The extra skin and weight of the breasts can also cause irritating rashes beneath the breasts. Not only can it be difficult for Los Angeles breast reduction candidates to find clothes that fit properly, but physical activities such as running can be impaired as well. Fortunately for women with overly large breasts, breast reduction surgery can help improve these symptoms! Patients often find that when the excess skin and breast tissue is removed, back/neck/shoulder pain is significantly improved. In addition, during surgery, a breast lift is performed to give a youthful, perky breast!

During breast reduction surgery in Los Angeles, Dr. Hirsch can perform several types of breast reductions including the vertical reduction, donut reduction, and of course the most common reduction which is the inverted “t” or anchor pattern (Wise pattern). He may also perform liposuction of the breasts in order to better contour the shape of the breasts.

The videos below illustrates the typical markings, as well as a breast reduction surgical procedure.

Markings

Procedure

Dr. Hirsch performs breast reduction surgery on patients who live in Los Angeles including the San Fernando Valley, Conejo Valley, all over California as well as the United States and Internationally! Breast reduction is usually an outpatient procedure, so patients are able to go home the same day as their surgeries. Most patients do not experience significant pain or discomfort after surgery and are able to resume their normal activities in 1-2 weeks.

For existing patients, please download post-operative instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the difference between a boob lift and a boob reduction?

A mastopexy (breast lift) is very similar to a reduction (reduction mammoplasty) in that the nipple is moved upwards in both procedures and the sagging, drooping appearance of the breast is corrected. However, in a breast reduction for patients in Los Angeles, there is a significant removal of skin and breast tissue, which makes the breast smaller. In a breast lift, the breast is reshaped and only skin and a small amount of breast tissue is removed.

Click here to learn more about breast lift

What will my scars look like after surgery?

There are several different scar patterns following a breast reduction depending on the amount of breast tissue that is present and the amount that you would like to be removed. In general, the most common scar patterns are the vertical (scar around the nipple and extending vertically down the breast) and the anchor scar (scar around the nipple, extending vertically down the breast, and horizontally under the breast). The type of skin pattern depends on the amount of breast tissue that is present and the amount that you would like to be removed. Dr. Hirsch will discuss scar patterns and surgical approaches at the time of your consultation at his Sherman Oaks plastic surgery clinic.

What will happen to my nipple sensation after my boob reduction surgery?

Nipple sensation is unpredictable! Sometimes, the nipples are more sensitive and sometimes they are less sensitive.

How do I keep my boobs as perky as possible after my boob reduction surgery?

One good option to help keep the breasts lifted and perky after reduction surgery is to use mesh, especially for older patients or those who have thin skin. The mesh acts as an internal bra, which helps support the breasts after the mesh dissolves. To learn more about Galaflex mesh, feel free to browse the following page Galaflex Mesh

Is boob reduction surgery covered by insurance?

Most major health insurance companies will cover the cost of breast reduction surgery, although you may need to show certain symptoms like neck and shoulder pain and that you have tried physical therapy. Dr. Hirsch’s office will work with you to verify that your surgery is covered by your insurance carrier.

Learn more about insurance coverage of breast reduction surgery.

Will I be able to breast feed my baby after my reduction surgery?

Breastfeeding after breast reduction is usually possible and depends more on how much breast tissue is left remaining than how much breast tissue is removed. In general, several published studies show that around 60% of women will be able to breastfeed after breast reduction surgery, although formula might be necessary as well.

When can I start exercising again after my boob reduction surgery?

You must walk the same day you come home after surgery! You should not lay in bed more than is necessary to reduce the risks of blood clots in your legs and lung problems. Once your incisions are fully healed, you will be able to increase the intensity of your exercises. This usually takes 4-6 weeks. Dr. Hirsch will let you know when it is ok to resume more strenuous exercises.

When can I go back to work after my boob surgery?

Most people take a week or so off work after breast reduction surgery, although the time may be more or less depending on the physical demands of your job.

Will I have drains after surgery?

Dr. Hirsch may use drains during your Los Angeles breast reduction, depending on how much breast tissue is removed. If drains are placed, please record their output on the sheet that Dr. Hirsch’s office provides for you so that he knows when they can be removed. You may shower as you normally would when the drains are present and wash their insertion sites with soap and water.

To learn more about breast reduction, feel free to browse the following link: American Society of Plastic Surgeons Breast Reduction Page