A breast reduction is more than just removing excess tissue and fat. The breast itself needs to be sculpted to a better shape. The techniques and incision patterns used in a reduction are essentially the same as those used in a breast lift but more tissue is removed. Drs. Reid and Gordon use modern techniques that optimize fullness in the upper part of the breast. The most common technique for performing a breast reduction uses a 3-part incision that looks like an anchor or an inverted “T”.

• Incision around your areola (the pigmented skin around your nipple)
• Vertical incision from the areola straight down to your breast crease
• Horizontal incision in the breast crease

Through these incisions, the nipple-areola complex is raised to a more aesthetically pleasing position, the breast tissue is reshaped and tightened, and the excess skin and tissue is removed. If you desire a smaller reduction and/or if your nipple isn’t too low, the horizontal incision may be avoided. At your consultation, your surgeon will describe the incisions that will give you the best result.

Is the horizontal scar mandatory?

While an important goal of surgery is to minimize incisions, it’s not the single most important factor. For many women who need a breast reduction, they have excess tissue in both the horizontal and vertical dimensions. The inverted “T” incision allows for removal of excess tissue in both dimensions and creates the best shape. Attempting to use fewer incisions on the wrong candidate can result in an inadequate reduction and/or poor shape. Drs. Reid and Gordon do not perform only one type of breast reduction, they modify their technique based on your anatomy and your goals. This will be discussed at length with you during your consultation and all proposed incisions demonstrated.

How much of a scar will be visible over time?

The scars are the biggest tradeoff associated with a breast reduction, but an overwhelming majority of our patients say the scars are well worth the improved quality of life they experience afterwards. Scar healing is genetically determined and highly individualized. During your consultation, your surgeon will review your skin type and look at other scars you may have to assess how your skin heals. Most patients find their scars a small price to pay for their new and improved appearance. We will teach you how to take care of your scars for the first three months after surgery. This helps to optimize the way they heal long term. Scars mature during the 12 months following surgery and most fade with time. If, for some reason, your scars become unsightly, we can perform laser scar treatment on them. BBL is a great option for removing any pinks/reds from scars.

Will my nipples be smaller after my breast reduction?

Your areola will be made smaller to match the proportions of your new breast. If your nipples are enlarged, they also can be reduced, but this is done less frequently. Click here for more information on nipple reduction. It’s important to remember that the nipple itself is not removed during surgery, but rather repositioned to a higher level on the chest wall. The nipple always stays attached to the tissue underneath because the deeper tissue contains the blood vessels and nerves that keep the nipple alive and give it sensation. Watch the short animation video to see how the nipple and the tissue are repositioned as a unit.