You may be a good candidate for a breast reduction if you have any of the following:

• Breasts that are too large in proportion to your body frame
• Heavy, pendulous breasts with nipples and areolas that point downward
• One breast that is much larger than the other
• Back, neck, or shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breasts
• Skin irritation beneath your breasts
• Indentations in your shoulders from tight bra straps
• Restriction of physical activity due to the size and weight of your breasts
• Dissatisfaction or self-consciousness about the largeness of your breasts

Breast reduction can be performed at any age, but patients are usually recommended waiting until breast development has stopped. Childbirth and breastfeeding may have significant and unpredictable effects on the size and shape of your breasts. Nevertheless, many Tampa-area women decide to undergo breast reduction before having children and feel that they can address any subsequent changes later. If you plan to breastfeed in the future, you should discuss this during your consultation with Dr. Azharian.

Breast reduction is usually a three- to-five hour procedure performed under general anesthesia. There are several incision options, including the following:

• Pedicle method: A circle cut around the areola and nipple
• Keyhole- or racquet-shaped pattern: An incision around the areola, continuing vertically down to the crease of the breast
• Inverted T or anchor-shaped method: An incision around the areola, continuing vertically down the breast and then horizontally across the underside of the breast fold

Dr. Azharian will select a technique based on the composition of your breast, the amount of reduction desired, and your preferences.

After the incision has been made, Dr. Azharian removes excess breast tissue, including glandular tissue, fat, and skin, through traditional surgical techniques or with liposuction. The remaining tissue may be sculpted or lifted. Before the incisions are closed, the nipple may also be repositioned centrally on the breast, if necessary. Finally, the incisions are brought together over the now-smaller breasts and then sutured closed.

When your reduction mammoplasty is done, you must wear a special surgical bra to reduce swelling and discomfort. You can expect some bruising and tenderness for the first few weeks, and there will be diminished nipple sensitivity for several months. Most breast reduction patients return to work about two weeks after the procedure.

Dr. Azharian will give you specific, individual advice about caring for yourself after a breast reduction, and her staff will make sure you are supported throughout your recovery. You will have a series of follow-up appointments to remove your stitches and dressings and to check on your progress. No matter where you reside in the Tampa area — be it Wesley Chapel, St. Petersburg, or elsewhere — we will keep an eye on you from the beginning to the end of your breast reduction process.

A consultation at Magnolia Plastic Surgery Center will help you make the right choices to meet your individual needs. To that end, Dr. Azharian will be pleased to show you her breast reduction before and after pictures. These photos are an excellent source of information to help you make your decision. Browsing through some breast reduction before and after pictures, which include women from Tampa, St. Petersburg, and other nearby locations, will give you a good idea of what can be achieved through breast reduction.

Dr. Azharian and her staff will be happy to discuss with you, on an individual basis, breast reduction prices. We warmly encourage you to consult our office with any questions you have about the surgery. Dr. Azharian also offers finance options to all of our patients.

The medical team at Magnolia Plastic Surgery Center welcomes breast reduction patients from Wesley Chapel, St. Petersburg, Plant City, Clearwater, Largo, Pinellas Park, Brandon and Spring Hill. Our experience and expertise has helped thousands of people in the Tampa region. Please schedule a consultation with us today and learn first-hand why we have become a top destination for breast reductions in Florida.

There is relief available through breast reduction surgery. This common cosmetic procedure eliminates excess tissue, skin, and fat in the breast to lighten the load and improve proportion. To enhance the shape and youthful appearance of the breast, the nipple and areola are repositioned to a more appropriate location during surgery.

Breast reduction surgery is often performed to bring about a more balanced look to asymmetrical breasts. It is common for a breast lift to be used in conjunction with a breast reduction. The quality of life can be restored following surgery.

Patients enjoy a relief from chronic pain, better freedom of movement and exercise,  more clothing options, and improved self-esteem.