Breast Reduction in New Orleans
A breast reduction, also known as a reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure that reduces the volume of the breast by removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin. This results in a reduced size of the breast while improving the shape and location of the breast and nipple.
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Who Might Seek Out a Breast Reduction Procedure?
Patients with abnormally large breasts can experience both physical pain and emotional discomfort from the excess weight of the large breasts, their physical appearance, or lack of an active lifestyle. Large, pendulous breasts can affect one’s ability to perform certain activities and may also cause a person to have several physical problems such as:
- Headaches/migraine
- Neck and/or shoulder pain
- Back pain
- Shoulder grooving
- Rashes or other skin infections
- Inability to exercise
If you have large breasts and are experiencing any of these symptoms or are dissatisfied with the large size and appearance of your breasts, a breast reduction can remove the excess weight while reducing the size of the breast. This may improve the quality of your life. Dr. Hendrick has extensive experience performing breast reductions, which require specialized skills to provide a natural-looking result and preserve as much nipple sensation as possible. He will spend time with you during your consultation to hear your concerns about the appearance of your breasts and how you would like them to look. He will also tell you exactly what you can expect from your surgery.
You should inform him if you plan to become pregnant or lose additional weight in the future. Additional weight loss after a breast reduction can result in a further decrease in the size of the breast, potentially creating an unsatisfactory result. Also, if you plan to become pregnant, it is important to note that a previous breast reduction may reduce your ability to successfully breastfeed.
What Can Breast Reduction Accomplish?
A breast reduction can:
- Reduce the size and weight of the breast
- Reduce the size of the areolas (the darker skin around the nipple)
- Reshape the breast for a rounded appearance
- Correct drooping/sagging breast, lifting them higher on the chest
Meet The Surgeons
We’re dedicated to delivering more than treatment—we build lasting connections through compassion, skill, and personalized care. Our mission is to provide exceptional service and results, making us the trusted choice for cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery in New Orleans.
What Happens During a Breast Reduction?
Dr. Hendrick performs breast reduction procedures under general anesthesia. Incisions are made around the areolas, in a vertical line from the areola to the crease, and then along the natural breast crease. He then removes excess skin, fat, and breast tissue. The breast is then reshaped and evaluated for symmetry before the skin edges are sutured closed. Bandages are then applied followed by a surgical bra. If your cosmetic goals also include raising the position of breasts on the chest wall, a mastopexy (breast lift) may be included in your treatment plan.
Confidence Starts Here
Our team prioritizes your safety, comfort, and satisfaction from your initial consultation to postoperative care. Experience the power of breast reduction with Dr. Hendrick and regain confidence in your appearance. Call us today at (504) 533-8848 to schedule your breast reduction consultation.Â
Breast Reduction FAQs in New Orleans
What can I expect during recovery from a breast reduction?
Post-operatively, you should expect to experience some tightness, swelling, bruising, and soreness. These symptoms will gradually subside in the weeks following your surgery. You will be prescribed pain medication to help with any discomfort you experience. You will be fitted with a surgical bra after your surgery, which you must wear for several weeks.
Incisions are cared for each day by cleansing the incision lines with mild soap and water, and any external stitches will be removed during a post-operative examination. Most patients take 7-10 days off from work after a breast reduction. Exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for four to six weeks. Be sure to always discuss activity restrictions with Dr. Hendrick to avoid any complications after surgery.
A full set of post-operative instructions will be provided to you prior to your surgery. Feel free to ask any questions during your preoperative visit.
How long do the results of a breast reduction last?
Breast reductions typically have long-lasting results, but gravity, aging, weight loss, weight gain, and pregnancy can all cause changes to the results of your procedure.
Is breast reduction surgery or weight loss best relieving back and shoulder pain?
While weight loss can lessen breast size somewhat, many women still struggle with heavy, dense breast tissue that does not respond to diet and exercise. Breast reduction directly removes excess tissue and lifts the breast, which often provides more predictable relief from neck, back, and shoulder pain.
Can breast reduction help with rashes and skin irritation under the breasts?
Yes, large, heavy breasts may trap heat and moisture, leading to chronic rashes, itching, and infections in the breast crease. By reducing and lifting the breasts, skin can remain drier and more comfortable, often reducing or eliminating these symptoms.
What is recovery like after breast reduction surgery, week by week?
Most patients feel sore and tight for the first few days, then gradually become more comfortable over the first two weeks as swelling and bruising fade. Light activities and desk work often resume in 1 to 2 weeks, while exercise, heavy lifting, and full healing typically progress over 4 to 6 weeks or more.
How can I prepare for breast reduction surgery for the safest outcome?
Your surgeon may ask you to stop smoking, avoid certain medications or supplements, and maintain a stable, healthy weight before surgery. You will also receive detailed instructions about fasting before anesthesia, arranging a ride home, and having someone stay with you the first 24 hours after surgery.
How does breast reduction surgery affect future breastfeeding and nipple sensitivity?
Some women are still able to breastfeed after breast reduction, but there is a risk that milk production or duct function may be reduced depending on the technique used. Nipple sensation may temporarily increase, decrease, or change after surgery, and although it often improves over time, permanent changes are possible.
Are there non-surgical alternatives to breast reduction for smaller breasts?
Supportive bras, physical therapy, and posture training can help control discomfort from heavy breasts but will not actually reduce breast volume. Currently, surgery is the primary proven way to remove excess breast tissue and reshape the breast for a smaller, lighter contour.
What kind of scars should I expect after breast reduction surgery?
Breast reduction scars usually appear around the areola and extend vertically down the breast, sometimes with an additional line in the breast crease. Scars start out firm and pink, then gradually fade and flatten over 12 to 18 months, though they will never disappear completely.
Am I a good candidate for breast reduction if I have very large breasts and chronic pain?
You may be a good candidate if you have large breasts that cause persistent neck, back, or shoulder pain, bra strap grooving, posture problems, or skin irritation. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon will include an examination, review of your health history, and discussion of your goals to confirm candidacy.
How soon will I see results after breast reduction, and how long do they last?
You will notice smaller, lighter breasts immediately after surgery, though swelling and bruising can temporarily affect their appearance. As healing continues over several months, your final shape becomes more defined, and results are generally long-lasting if your weight remains stable.
Can breast reduction surgery be combined with breast lift or other procedures?
Breast reduction naturally includes a lifting component because excess skin is removed and the breast is reshaped higher on the chest. In some cases, it may be combined with other body contouring procedures, but your surgeon will help determine what is safe and appropriate for you.
What are the main risks and complications of breast reduction surgery?
As with any surgery, there are risks of bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, changes in nipple sensation, and visible scarring. Rarely, issues such as delayed healing, asymmetry, or problems with blood supply to the nipple or breast tissue may require additional treatment.
Will health insurance cover my breast reduction surgery for medical symptoms?
Some insurance plans may cover breast reduction when it is clearly documented that large breasts cause chronic pain, posture issues, skin problems, or other functional concerns. Your plastic surgeon’s office can frequently assist with submitting photos, measurements, and medical records to help determine whether your procedure qualifies for coverage.