Breast Reduction
Surgery to reduce breast weight and reshape the breasts, with individualized goals and tradeoffs.
Consult with Dr. Henry Huson at Queen City Plastic Surgery in West Chester, Ohio, serving the Cincinnati area.
- Setting
- Confirmed with your treatment plan
- Anesthesia
- General
- Procedure time
- Individual estimate at consultation
- Recovery
- Often 1 to 2 weeks for desk work; longer for lifting
- Results
- Develop over months; results vary
General planning information. Your procedure, anesthesia, recovery, and results depend on your health and treatment plan. Returning to work does not mean full healing.
About the procedure
Breast reduction removes skin, fat, and breast tissue. It can help with symptoms associated with heavy breasts, such as shoulder grooves, skin irritation, and limitations during exercise. Other causes of pain should also be considered during evaluation.
The nipple is usually moved while remaining attached to a tissue pedicle, but some reductions require a free nipple graft. The technique affects blood supply, sensation, and breastfeeding potential. A particular cup size cannot be guaranteed because bra sizing varies. Insurance coverage depends on the plan and medical criteria; confirm participation and authorization before scheduling.
Good candidates
- Neck, shoulder, or back pain from breast weight
- Shoulder grooving from bra straps
- Rashes beneath the breasts
- Difficulty exercising or finding clothing that fits
Candidacy is confirmed at your consultation. Dr. Huson will tell you honestly if a different approach would serve you better.
Before & after
Coming soon
Before and after photos for breast reduction will be added here.
What to expect
Your consultation
The consultation reviews your goals, medical history, medications, nicotine use, and examination findings. Discuss alternatives, the proposed setting and anesthesia, realistic changes, costs, and the support you will need during recovery.
The procedure
Excess tissue is removed and the breast reshaped. The nipple usually remains attached to a tissue pedicle, but some reductions need a free nipple graft. Your surgeon should explain how the proposed technique affects blood supply, sensation, and breastfeeding.
Recovery
A reduction can relieve breast weight, but soreness, swelling, and wound care continue during recovery. Open areas or delayed healing can lengthen restrictions. Return to exercise requires individual clearance.
Risks and limitations
- Wound separation, asymmetry, infection, and prominent scars can affect the result.
- Nipple or areola loss, altered sensation, and reduced or lost ability to breastfeed are possible.
This is not a complete list. Your clinician should explain the risks of the specific procedure and anesthesia, including bleeding, infection, healing problems, and any medical factors that change your risk.
Other options
Supportive garments and treatment of other causes of pain may help without surgery. A breast lift addresses position rather than weight. The right choice depends on symptoms, goals, and examination.
Planning your consultation
Bring your medication list and relevant medical history. Ask about the facility, anesthesia team, follow-up, time away from work, and help at home. Request an itemized estimate covering the procedure, anesthesia, facility, and any additional care; confirm coverage directly if insurance may apply.
Common questions
Bring the rest to your consultation. There is no such thing as too many.
Can I breastfeed afterward?
Breastfeeding may be reduced or impossible, particularly after a free nipple graft. Discuss this before surgery; retaining a tissue attachment does not guarantee feeding ability.
Can I choose an exact cup size?
You can discuss proportions and goals, but cup sizes differ across bra brands and cannot be promised.
Does insurance cover breast reduction?
Coverage and prior authorization depend on the plan, medical criteria, and the practice’s participation. Obtain confirmation before assuming that it is covered.
Related procedures
View all 6Sources and further reading
Patient education from Queen City Plastic Surgery. Updated . General information does not replace a personal medical assessment. Sources explain general procedures and do not establish the services or protocols of this practice. Contact the practice with questions or to request a correction.
Ready to talk about Breast Reduction?
Consultations are free, unhurried, and educational. Bring your questions and your goals; leave with an honest plan.