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Breast reduction is a procedure designed to reduce excess breast tissue and reshape the breasts to better align with the rest of the body. For many women, overly large breasts can create both physical discomfort and challenges in daily activities, affecting posture, movement, and overall comfort. By addressing both size and shape, breast reduction can improve function while also creating a more balanced appearance.
Dr. Arnold S. Breitbart, MD, performs breast reduction surgery for patients in Long Island and Manhattan, NY, with an approach that considers both relief of symptoms and aesthetic outcome. With extensive experience in reconstructive and cosmetic breast procedures, he carefully plans each surgery to achieve proportional results while maintaining natural contour and symmetry.
What Is Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction, also called reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to create smaller, lighter, and more proportionate breasts.
Many women seek breast reduction not only for cosmetic reasons, but also for relief from the physical discomfort caused by overly large breasts, including:
- Chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain
- Shoulder grooves from bra straps
- Skin irritation and rashes beneath the breasts
- Limited ability to exercise or play sports
- Difficulty finding properly fitting clothing
For most patients, breast reduction provides both physical relief and aesthetic improvement, often boosting self-confidence and quality of life.
Why Do Patients Choose Dr. Arnold Breitbart?
- Double board-certified plastic surgeon, with advanced fellowship training in breast reconstruction at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
- Decades of surgical experience performing breast augmentation with a proven record of safety and satisfaction. View his Before & After Breast Augmentation Gallery for examples of his results
- Customized implant selection and incision techniques to achieve natural, balanced, and personalized outcomes
- AAAASF-accredited surgical suite, providing hospital-level safety in a private, comfortable environment
- Nationally recognized expert, honored by Castle Connolly and Newsday. Explore Dr. Breitbart’s Honors & Awards
- Artistically inspired approach, combining surgical precision with a refined sense of proportion and aesthetics, praised consistently in Patient Reviews
Procedure Overview
During breast reduction surgery, Dr. Breitbart:
- Makes carefully placed incisions to minimize visible scarring.
- Removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin.
- Repositions and reshapes the breasts for a lifted, youthful appearance.
- Moves the areola to a more natural position if necessary.
Surgical techniques may include:
- Vertical (“lollipop”) reduction: Best for moderate reductions with mild to moderate sagging. Involves an incision around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease.
- Inverted-T (“anchor”) reduction: Ideal for women with very large breasts or significant sagging. Uses incisions around the areola, vertically to the breast crease, and along the fold.
- Liposuction-only reduction: Suitable for women with good skin elasticity and excess fatty tissue rather than glandular tissue.
Each technique has advantages depending on your breast size, skin quality, and desired outcome.
Breast Reduction Recovery
Recovery is an important part of the process. While every patient heals differently, most can expect:
- Back to work: 1–2 weeks (depending on job activity).
- Strenuous exercise: Avoid for 4–6 weeks.
- Pain and swelling: Manageable with prescribed medications and support garments.
- Final results: Breasts settle into their new shape over several months, with scars gradually fading.
What to Expect from Breast Reduction Results
Breast reduction results are noticeable immediately after surgery, with continued improvement as swelling decreases and the breasts settle into their new shape. Many patients experience early relief from physical symptoms such as neck, shoulder, and back discomfort.
Over time, the breasts soften and scars gradually fade. While results are long-lasting, factors such as aging and weight fluctuations can still affect breast shape. Maintaining a stable weight and following post-operative care instructions can help preserve outcomes.
Many patients notice immediate relief from neck, shoulder, and back pain, as well as greater ease in daily activities like exercise, sports, and clothing choices.
Does Breast Reduction Include a Lift?
Yes. A breast reduction always includes an element of breast lift, since excess skin is removed and the breasts are elevated to a higher, more youthful position. The nipples and areolas are also repositioned for natural proportions.
Cost of Breast Reduction
The cost of breast reduction surgery varies based on factors such as:
- The surgical technique used
- Amount of tissue removed
- Facility and anesthesia fees
- Pre- and post-operative care
- Additional procedures combined with your breast reduction such as a tummy tuck, liposuction or arm lift.
During your consultation, Dr. Breitbart will provide a personalized estimate that covers all costs, including tests, garments, anesthesia, and follow-up visits.
Insurance Coverage for Breast Reduction
In many cases, breast reduction is considered medically necessary if large breasts cause pain or physical limitations. Insurance companies may cover the procedure if you meet their criteria.
Our office will assist with:
- Submitting required documentation and photographs
- Writing medical necessity letters
- Communicating with your insurance provider
If insurance coverage isn’t available, financing is offered through Cherry, CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit.
What Patients Have to Say About Dr. Breitbart
“I have been going to Dr. Breitbart for a few years now and have had a few procedures done. I had been to other plastic surgeons but would never ever see anyone other than Dr. Breitbart. Dr. Breitbart has all the qualities you look for in a doctor: Compassion, Strong Work Ethic, Professionalism, Knowledge, Confidence, Humility, and Passion for his work. I have been very pleased with all my results.”
– RealSelf Review of Dr. Breitbart
Are You a Good Candidate?
You may be a good candidate if you experience:
- Neck, shoulder, or back pain caused by heavy breasts
- Skin irritation, rashes, or infections under the breasts
- Difficulty finding bras or clothing that fit
- Limitations in physical activity or sports
- Self-consciousness about breast size
Ideal candidates should:
- Have realistic expectations about results and scarring
- Be in good physical health
- Not smoke (or be willing to quit before and after surgery)
Breast Reduction FAQs
Why Choose Dr. Arnold S. Breitbart for Breast Reduction?
Dr. Arnold S. Breitbart, MD, is a double board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in procedures that address both functional concerns and aesthetic goals. His training includes advanced fellowship work at Memorial Sloan-Kettering, providing a strong background in breast tissue reshaping and reconstruction. Surgical procedures are performed in an AAAASF-accredited facility that supports a consistent standard of safety and care. Over the course of his career, Dr. Breitbart has been recognized by Castle Connolly and Newsday for his contributions to plastic surgery and has been featured in national publications. His approach to breast reduction focuses on relieving physical discomfort while creating results that are proportionate, balanced, and consistent with each patient’s anatomy.
Breast Reduction Consultation Long Island, NY
Breast reduction can improve comfort, mobility, and overall body proportions by reducing excess tissue and reshaping the breasts. A detailed consultation allows for evaluation of symptoms, anatomy, and surgical options, including potential insurance considerations. Patients can explore treatment plans designed to provide both physical relief and long-term aesthetic balance. To learn more about breast reduction with Dr. Arnold S. Breitbart, MD, in Long Island and Manhattan, NY, schedule a consultation, call (516) 365-3511 today.
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