Plastic Surgery
What Is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Last reviewed: May 2026 · Haute MD Editorial Team
Breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty) removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to reduce breast size, relieve physical symptoms, and create a more proportionate breast shape. It is one of the highest patient satisfaction procedures in plastic surgery, producing dramatic improvements in chronic neck pain, back pain, shoulder grooving from bra straps, skin rashes under the breasts, and difficulty with physical activity.
Who is a candidate for breast reduction?
Candidates typically have macromastia (overly large breasts) causing physical symptoms including chronic neck, back, or shoulder pain; skin irritation or rashes under the breast; difficulty with exercise; posture problems; and difficulty finding clothing that fits. Functional breast reduction is frequently covered by insurance when documented physical symptoms meet coverage criteria.
Techniques
Vertical (lollipop) scar: removes tissue through incisions around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease. Inverted T (anchor) scar: used for larger reductions; incisions around areola, vertically, and horizontally in the breast crease. Liposuction-only reduction: appropriate for selected patients with primarily fatty breast tissue and good skin elasticity with mild ptosis.
Insurance coverage
Many insurance plans cover breast reduction when documented physical symptoms are present and minimum weight removal criteria are met (typically 500 grams per breast or more). Pre-authorization from your insurance company before surgery is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does breast reduction surgery cost?
When covered by insurance, out-of-pocket costs are limited to copays and deductibles. Self-pay costs range from $7,000-$15,000 depending on surgeon, facility, and geographic location.
Can I breastfeed after breast reduction?
Breastfeeding ability may be affected by breast reduction. The risk depends on the technique used and amount of tissue removed. Discuss your plans for future breastfeeding with your surgeon before scheduling surgery.
How long is recovery from breast reduction?
Most patients return to light activity within 2 weeks and work within 2-3 weeks. Physical activity is restricted for 4-6 weeks. Swelling continues to resolve over 3-6 months.
Will insurance cover breast reduction?
Insurance coverage depends on your plan, documented symptoms, and whether minimum removal criteria are met. Your plastic surgeon's office can assist with pre-authorization documentation.
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Dr. Daniel Careaga
Double Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Plastic Surgery · Coral Gables, FL
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Dr. Alexandra Condé-Green
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Plastic Surgery · Boca Raton, FL
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Dr. Samuel Lin
Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Plastic Surgery · Boston, MA
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