Breast Reduction Surgery: Procedure, Recovery and Results
Updated: 2 days ago
Written and medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: November 2026 · How we review
Quick Answer
Breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) is surgery that makes the breasts smaller by removing fat, glandular tissue and skin. It's often done to relieve back, neck and shoulder pain and skin irritation caused by large, heavy breasts. Surgery takes about three to five hours. Most people take one to two weeks off work. Scars are permanent but fade.
What the research says
Breast reduction eases pain: in 29 studies with 4,173 women, breast reduction greatly relieved shoulder pain, bra-strap grooving, back pain, neck pain and headaches, and improved physical functioning (Chadbourne EB et al., Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 2001) [2]
It improves quality of life compared with no surgery: pooling randomized trials, breast reduction significantly improved pain, physical function and psychological well-being compared with women who didn't have surgery (Lin Y et al., Annals of Plastic Surgery, 2021) [3]
Key takeaways
Breast reduction removes fat, tissue and skin to make breasts smaller.
It relieves back, neck and shoulder pain from large breasts.
Surgery takes about three to five hours.
Most people return to work in one to two weeks.
Insurance often covers it when medically necessary.
What is breast reduction?
During breast reduction, the surgeon removes excess breast tissue and reshapes the breast so it's smaller, lighter and in better proportion to your body. The nipple and areola are moved to a higher position. Men with gynecomastia may have a similar procedure. Sources: [1]
Why it's done
Many people find relief from years of pain.
Back, neck or shoulder pain.
Deep grooves from bra straps.
Skin irritation or rashes under the breasts.
Trouble exercising or finding clothes that fit.
Low self-esteem or discomfort with how your breasts look. Sources: [1, 2]
How to prepare
You'll need someone to stay with you the first night.
Share your medical history, including medicines, allergies, smoking, past surgeries, pregnancies and breastfeeding plans.
Have your breasts measured and photographed; you may need a mammogram.
Stop smoking before and after surgery.
You may need to stop aspirin or anti-inflammatory medicines like Motrin® or Aleve®.
Stock up on loose tops, gauze, surgical bras and acetaminophen.
Arrange a ride home and someone to stay with you at least the first night. Sources: [1]
What happens during surgery
Surgery takes about three to five hours.
You get general anesthesia and are asleep.
The surgeon makes a keyhole-shaped incision around the nipple and down the breast.
Excess fat, tissue and skin are removed.
The nipple and areola are moved higher.
The incisions are closed, and drainage tubes may be placed.
Your breasts are wrapped in a dressing or surgical bra. Sources: [1]
You may go home the same day or stay at least one night. Sources: [1]
Risks
Risk | Notes |
Pain and tiredness | Common at first |
Scars | Permanent but fade over time |
Changes in nipple sensation | Sometimes permanent |
Trouble breastfeeding | Depends on how much tissue is removed |
Poor healing | Rare; may need a skin graft |
Avoid heavy lifting for the first few weeks to protect your incisions. Sources: [1]
Recovery
When | What to expect |
First few days | Soreness, swelling and tiredness |
1 to 2 weeks | Most people return to work or school |
At least 1 month | Avoid exercise and strenuous activity |
Several weeks | Return to physically demanding activities |
Follow-up visits remove bandages and stitches. Sources: [1]
Insurance coverage
Insurance often covers breast reduction when it's medically necessary. You may need photos, your height and weight, and a letter from your surgeon describing your symptoms and the estimated amount of tissue to be removed. Sources: [1]
When to call your surgeon
A fever.
Pus or unusual discharge from an incision.
Stitches coming apart early.
One or both breasts swelling with pain and pressure. Sources: [1]
Conclusion
Breast reduction can relieve years of pain and make everyday activities easier. Talking openly with your surgeon about your goals, recovery and breastfeeding plans helps you get the best result.
Keep learning: read about breast lift surgery and breast augmentation.
Frequently asked questions
What is breast reduction?
Surgery that removes breast fat, tissue and skin to make breasts smaller.
Who is a good candidate?
People with pain or other problems caused by large breasts.
How long does surgery take?
About three to five hours.
Will I have scars?
Yes, but they fade over time.
Can I breastfeed after breast reduction?
Maybe; it depends on how much tissue is removed.
Will I lose nipple sensation?
Sensation can change and is sometimes permanent.
How long is recovery?
One to two weeks off work and at least a month before exercise.
Does insurance cover breast reduction?
Often, when it's medically necessary.
Can men have breast reduction?
Yes, for conditions like gynecomastia.
When should I call my surgeon?
For fever, discharge, opened stitches or painful swelling.
Related Reading
Breast Reduction Scars: Healing Timeline, Types and Treatment explains how breast reduction scars heal.
Breast Augmentation: Types, Surgery, Recovery and Risks Explained surgery to enlarge the breasts.
Gynecomastia Surgery: A Guide to Male Breast Reduction breast reduction for men.
Cosmetic Surgery: A Guide to Aesthetic Procedures an overview of cosmetic surgery.
Liposuction: What It Is, Surgery, Recovery, and Results another way to remove fat.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): A Guide to Procedure, Recovery, and Results another body contouring surgery.
References
Cleveland Clinic. Breast Reduction. Cleveland Clinic. Last updated September 22, 2021. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11025-breast-reduction
Chadbourne EB, Zhang S, Gordon MJ, et al. Clinical outcomes in reduction mammaplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. 2001;76(5):503-510. PMID 11357797. https://doi.org/10.4065/76.5.503
Lin Y, Yang Y, Zhang X, et al. Postoperative health-related quality of life in reduction mammaplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Annals of Plastic Surgery. 2021;87(1):107-112. PMID 33346564. https://doi.org/10.1097/SAP.0000000000002609
Medical disclaimer
This article is for general education only and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Talk to your doctor about your own diagnosis and treatment, and seek emergency care right away for severe or sudden symptoms.
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