Breast reduction surgery may be the perfect solution for you if you are experiencing back problems due to breasts that are too large. This surgery removes fat and other glandular tissue in order to decrease the size of the breasts. Basically this procedure can give a woman breasts that are more in proportion with the rest of her body and is the opposite of a breast enhancement. This procedure can also decrease the size of the areola, the dark skin surrounding the nipple.

How the Procedure is Performed

The procedure will usually last for about two to four hours, which is an admittedly long time for any type of cosmetic surgery. There are many different methods by which this procedure can be accomplished. The most common method requires an anchor shaped incision around the areola that extends down the breast along its natural curves. The surgeon will then remove any excess fat and glandular tissue and move the nipple to its new position. The skin is then reformed around the nipple in order to form the new shape of the breast. In order to remove the excess fat, liposuction may be used. The operation may be inpatient or outpatient.

The Recovery Period

As with other plastic surgery, there will be a period of rest following the surgery before you may return to work and regular daily activity. You should be back to work and social activities in about two weeks, as long as it is nothing too stressful. Any heavy lifting or pushing should be avoided for three to four weeks. Finally, it will take roughly six months before the breasts will settle into their new shape. Expect plenty of bruising and swelling to occur in the first couple weeks following the surgery.

The Cost of Breast Reduction Surgery

You can expect a breast reduction surgery to run about $2,000 to $4,000. Altogether, that's about how much other breast surgeries, such as breast enhancement, cost.

The Risks Involved with Breast Reduction

Most surgeries have risks and breast reduction surgery is no exception. The most notable risk is the long permanent scars that usually result. These scars are usually worse for smokers. Breasts may be slightly mismatched after the surgery and you may lose feeling in your breasts. You will also no longer be able to breast feed since the milk ducts are removed during the procedure.