Breast reduction can be done for functional reasons, relieving symptoms, or for cosmetic reasons, improving the quality of life. Our goal is to do both. Back, neck or shoulder pain experienced prior to surgery can be relieved. Physical activity levels can be increased, as activities that were difficult and painful can now be participated in comfortably. Overall, the procedure helps women improve their self-image and be more content with life.

Most women who present for breast reduction have complaints of upper body pain secondary to the weight of the breasts. Often, they will have refrained from physical activity and sports participation, and they feel uncomfortable about their appearance. Breast reduction can alleviate these complaints.

The procedure removes fat, glandular tissue and skin from the breasts, making them smaller, lighter and firmer. It can also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple. The tendency of the breasts to droop with time is reversed, and a higher, more natural position is established. The goal is to give the patient smaller, better-shaped breasts in proportion with the rest of her body.

The surgery is performed at the Institute of Aesthetic Surgery and Medicine at Northern Westchester Hospital, a state-of-the-art facility approved by the Joint commission for the Accreditation of Hospital Organizations. A superb staff of board-certified anesthesiologists provides anesthesia. Services range from the latest twilight sedation techniques to make you comfortable while local anesthesia is used, to general anesthesia if that is your preference. 

The procedure involves an anchor-shaped incision that circles the areola, extends downward and follows the natural curve of the crease beneath the breast. Liposuction may be used to remove excess fat from the underarm area. A special surgical bra is worn for approximately four weeks after surgery, and sutures are removed between the seventh and tenth post-operative days.

Although much of the swelling and bruising will disappear in the first few weeks, it may be as much as six months before the breasts settle into their new shape.

Of all plastic surgery procedures, breast reduction results in the quickest body-image changes. Patients are rid of the physical discomfort of large breasts, their bodies look better proportioned and clothes fit better.