Breast Reduction
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9 Months After Surgery |
Overview
Breast reduction involves the removal of excess skin and breast tissue in patients with excessively large breasts. (Please see our section on gynecomastia for information on male breast reduction surgery). Typically it is performed to treat symptoms which often include neck, back and shoulder pain, and rashes under the breasts. The type and length of scars will vary depending on how large the breasts are prior to surgery. Most commonly, patients will end up with a scar around the areola and a vertical extension down to the fold under the breast. This scar is sometimes said to look like a "lollipop." Patients with very large breasts often require a scar with horizontal extensions, referred to as an "upside down T" or "anchor." Most patients will have plastic drains in place for a couple of days to prevent fluid collections. A sports bra is worn for the first 4 to 8 weeks following surgery.
Anesthesia type: General
Length of surgery: 3 hours
Risks: Infection, bleeding, poor scars, loss of nipple sensation, asymmetry, delayed wound healing, seroma, persistent back/neck/shoulder pain
Average recovery time: Most patients return to work within one week after undergoing a breast reduction. Typically Dr. Gallego allows his patients to begin easing back into their normal activities by 2-3 weeks. The majority of the bruising and swelling resolves by 4-6 weeks, and patients typically state they are feeling back to normal by 6-8 weeks.
Duration of effect: >10 years
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Useful Information on Breast Reduction
• ASPS information regarding breast reduction
About Gallego Plastic Surgery
Gallego Plastic Surgery has two offices conveniently located to serve you. Our Irvine Office is located in the city of Irvine and the serves the surrounding Orange County region. Our Corona Office is located in the city of Corona and the serves the surrounding Inland Empire and Riverside regions.
For more information, or to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Gallego, please contact us.










