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Breast Reduction

Expert Breast Reduction Surgery Can Help

Many Scottsdale, Glendale, and Phoenix, Arizona breast reduction patients have benefited from the skill and experience of Dr. Angelchik. Breast reduction surgery is performed to improve the appearance and size of the breasts by lifting them and creating a shapelier, more proportionate breast. For many patients, the procedure can alleviate the physical and psychological discomfort of living with very large breasts.

Doctor Certifications

Dr. Angelchik was certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) in 1996 and successfully completed a rigorous recertification process in 2006 and 2016. He participates in the Maintenance of Certification program through the ABPS. He is a member in good standing of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He has also been named to Castle & Connolly’s Top Doctors in America every year since 1996.

Dr. Paul Angelchik is a Phoenix plastic surgeon who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Angelchik is well-trained and experienced in all forms of plastic surgery, namely breast enhancement and facial rejuvenation. He has been serving patients for over 20 years. Dr. Angelchik brings his surgical experience, expertise, and quality care to patients in and around Phoenix, Arizona.


What is Breast Reduction?


Breast reduction is a surgical procedure that aims to reduce breast and fatty tissue in order to create smaller, more proportional breasts. Techniques commonly use incisions to surgically remove the tissues, although liposuction can sometimes be used during the same surgical session. Breast reduction in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale, AZ area often accompanies other breast procedures like a breast lift or nipple surgery. It’s sometimes performed as a part of a mommy makeover because of the effect that pregnancy can have on the breasts.

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Who is a Candidate for Breast Reduction?


Exceptionally large breasts can be disabling in terms of back, neck, and shoulder pain. It is often difficult for these women to find bras or clothing that fit properly. They may feel self-conscious in public and avoid activities which make their breasts stand out (such as jogging or aerobics). Breast reduction surgery can help.

If you are at least 18 years old, are in good health, and want to reduce the size of your breasts, then you are a candidate for breast reduction surgery. You should also have fully-developed breasts. Candidates also include those who have physical discomfort in the shoulders, neck, and back due to the size of their breasts, or are self-conscious about their breast size. A large breast size can affect your posture, limit physical activities, and cause skin or breathing problems. You can discuss this further with Dr. Angelchik during your consultation.

He is a very skilled surgeon and her new breasts are even better than expected. Can’t say enough for this doctor. Read More >

What are My Options for Breast Reduction?


One of the most important decisions to be made before your breast reduction is the type of incision to be used. There are three options:

Periareolar Incision

This incision follows around the pigment of the areolae and allows for reduction of the skin and tissue. It allows for easily-concealable scarring and less-extensive reduction of the breasts.

Keyhole Incision

This incision follows the periareolar incision but includes an additional incision down to the breast crease. This allows for additional reduction of the breast but can produce visible scarring that can be concealed with clothing.

Anchor Incision

This incision is an extension of the keyhole incision with additional incisions following the breast crease. This technique allows for the most extensive reduction of the breasts, although some scarring can be concealed within the breast fold.

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How to Prepare For Breast Reduction Recovery

You’ve decided it’s time to have a breast reduction, but you’re not sure what to expect afterward. There are many details involved in recovering from any form of breast augmentation or plastic surgery. Our board-certified plastic surgeon in Phoenix can give you detailed instructions on how to prepare your home and yourself for the post-surgery healing process. Here […]

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Questions about Breast Reduction

Am I a good candidate for breast reduction surgery? If you are at least 18 years old, are in good health, and want to reduce the size of your breasts, then you are a candidate for breast reduction surgery. You should also have fully developed breasts. Candidates also include those who have physical discomfort in the shoulders, […]

Read Blog >

How is Breast Reduction Performed?


Breast reduction is performed in an ambulatory surgery center or hospital setting in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale, AZ area. The vast majority of patients go home the same day. Patients with other medical problems may be hospitalized overnight when indicated, but this is rare. Once general anesthesia is administered, a predetermined incision is performed so that the fat and breast tissue can be removed.

Liposuction of subcutaneous fat in the lateral chest wall may be incorporated into the procedure to contour this region, but is not usually used for major volume reduction. The surgery typically takes 2 -3 hours. It may take longer in extremely large cases. Once the surgery is complete, you’ll be fitted with a surgical bra to support and compress the area.

Breast Reduction Recovery and Results


Drains are used for 5-6 days and removed in-office. Skin sutures are absorbable and do not require removal. Pain after surgery is described by most patients as moderate, rather than severe. If liposuction is performed, this is typically the most uncomfortable area, and is described as “sore”. Pain medication and antibiotics are provided for use after the procedure. Most patients go back to work or school after two weeks, although this can be longer if they have a physically demanding job.

A non-underwire bra is required for 4 weeks or longer if there are any healing problems on the suture line. A screening mammogram is recommended at 6 – 12 months after surgery to establish a postoperative baseline, which demonstrates any changes from surgery, which may influence the interpretation of future studies.

Breast reduction patients are generally very satisfied with a breast reduction procedure because it makes such a positive difference in their lives. For most women, the surgery is very effective at relieving symptoms of pain and muscle strain. Patient satisfaction is typically very high. It may be less effective if there is underlying arthritis or other musculoskeletal problems contributing to discomfort.

Schedule a Consultation


Dr. Angelchik is a top breast surgeon in the Glendale area and can create the right breast reduction procedure for you during a consultation. Contact our office by calling or filling out our online form to schedule an appointment in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale, AZ area.

FAQ’s

Can breast grow back after reduction?

It is possible for changes in breast size to occur after a breast reduction procedure. This happens most often with events like weight gain or pregnancy.

Can you drink alcohol after breast reduction?

It’s recommended to avoid drinking alcohol for at least 5 days after your surgery. This is because alcohol can negatively impact your ability to heal.

Do you lose feeling in your nipples after breast reduction?

It’s relatively common to temporarily lose feeling in the nipples after breast surgery with certain incision patterns. Dr. Angelchik can discuss the use of specific incision patterns if this is a concern.

Do you lose weight after breast reduction?

Depending on the size of your breasts, you will lose some weight, but not more than a few pounds on average. This is simply due to the nature of removing a significant amount of tissue during surgery.

How can I reduce my cup size?

The best way to reduce your cup size is through breast reduction surgery. Dr. Angelchik can give you the most realistic estimate of how much tissue can be removed during your procedure.

How dangerous is breast reduction surgery?

Breast reduction comes with risks like any other surgery. The best way to achieve a safe and low-risk outcome is by selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon.

How do breast reductions work?

Breast reductions work by removing fatty tissue, breast tissue, or both from the breasts through surgery. This may be achieved using surgical removal or liposuction. Typically, skin is also excised, and each breast is lifted into a more upright position.

How do I know if I need a breast reduction?

Breast reduction is best for patients who have symptoms like back pain, chafing, difficulty exercising, and more. The best way to determine if you can benefit from breast reduction is by consulting a board-certified plastic surgeon.

How long does it take for swelling to go down after breast reduction?

After a breast reduction, swelling should begin to subside within 1-2 weeks. It can take several more weeks for all swelling to subside.

How long does it take to recover from a breast reduction?

You should plan to take 1-2 weeks away from work or school after breast reduction. You should also plan to limit your activity level for 6-8 months after surgery.

How many cup sizes can you go down with breast reduction?

It can be difficult to determine a specific cup size when it comes to breast surgery, but most patients experience a reduction in 1-2 cup sizes on average.

How much do breast reductions cost?

There are multiple factors that determine the cost of your breast reduction. Dr. Angelchik will give you a detailed cost estimate during your consultation.

What causes breast reduction?

Many women pursue breast reduction because their large breasts interfere with daily living and activities. For example, they may have difficulties exercising or finding clothing that fits appropriately. For many women, a breast reduction can achieve significant relief and a drastically improved lifestyle.

What happens after breast reduction?

After breast reduction, you will need to rest and recover for 1-2 weeks. During this time, you should limit your activity level and put certain restrictions on your day-to-day living. Dr. Angelchik and our team will provide detailed instructions to follow for best results.

When can I sleep without a bra after breast reduction?

You will be instructed to wear a specialized surgical bra for approximately six weeks after your procedure. Once cleared by Dr. Angelchik, you can return to sleeping without a bra.

When can I wear a normal bra after breast reduction?

You will need to avoid wearing normal underwire bras for at least six weeks. This is because underwire bras can irritate incisions and do not provide the necessary support offered by a surgical bra.

Does breast size affect weight?

For women with very large breasts, fat and breast tissue can have a noticeable impact on overall weight. This may be up to several pounds.

Does insurance pay for breast reduction?

In some cases, insurance does cover breast reduction procedures. We encourage breast reduction patients to speak with their insurance providers ahead of consultation to obtain specific details. This allows us to maximize coverage and plan your procedure accordingly.

Does weight gain increase breast size?

Many women experience weight gain in their breasts, meaning they increase in size with weight gain. This fat may or may not respond to weight loss.

Has anyone had a second breast reduction?

Secondary breast reductions are sometimes needed, especially for patients who experience weight fluctuations or pregnancy. Dr. Angelchik can give you the best estimate of whether a secondary procedure may be necessary or not.

How do you know when you need a breast reduction?

You may be able to benefit from a breast reduction if you experience noticeable symptoms like back pain, trouble breathing, or skin rash from having very large breasts. You may also benefit if you have difficulty exercising or finding appropriately fitting clothing.

How is the recovery from breast reduction?

You may be able to benefit from a breast reduction if you experience noticeable symptoms like back pain, trouble breathing, or skin rash from having very large breasts. You may also benefit if you have difficulty exercising or finding appropriately fitting clothing.

How long do stitches stay in after breast reduction?

Stitches often come out within 1-2 weeks, although Dr. Angelchik may use dissolvable sutures that do not need to be removed. Our team will help you understand whether you will need to return for removal or not.

How long does it take breast reduction to heal?

It can take an initial 1-2 weeks to heal after breast reduction, but it may take an additional 1-2 weeks for most swelling to go down and for incisions to completely heal. Your timeframe can depend on your natural rate of healing and how well you adhere to Dr. Angelchik’s instructions.

How much is 500 grams breast reduction?

It can be difficult to determine the specific cost of a breast reduction without consultation. Dr. Angelchik will give you a detailed estimate based on a variety of factors during your appointment.

How painful is a breast reduction?

Breast reduction can be easily managed with prescribed medications. During a consultation, Dr. Angelchik will recommend the safest and most reliable ways to manage discomfort after your procedure.

Is it OK to wear a sports bra after breast reduction?

During your initial recovery, you will wear a specialized surgical bra to support your breasts. After you move into the next phase of your recovery, it’s recommended to wear a supportive sports bra, avoiding underwire bras until cleared by Dr. Angelchik.

Is it worth getting a breast reduction?

Breast reduction comes with one of the highest rates of patient satisfaction of any plastic surgery procedure. Many patients experience a significant and noticeable reduction in symptoms after surgery, allowing them to exercise, wear new clothing, and more.

Why do breasts grow back after a reduction?

This can occur because of many different factors, including pregnancy, weight changes, hormones, aging, and more. Dr. Angelchik will discuss the possibility of these changes during your consultation.

Why do my breasts hurt and feel heavy?

Pain and heaviness in the breasts are common symptoms reported by breast reduction patients. By reducing the size of the breasts, many patients find relief.

The Angelchik Difference

Learn more about our philosophy and follow the patient journey to see what
makes us different and what to expect before, during and after your procedure.

  • Surgeon Consultation

    All patient consultations are conducted with Board Certified surgeon Dr. Angelchik and full medical history is discussed.

  • Custom Procedure

    Recommendations are based on the patient's expressed interests, health history and physical examination.

  • Personalized Experience

    Our staff offers a personalized experience for each patient with an educational and reassuring environment.

  • Highly Rated

    Consistenly on RealSelf, HealthGrades and Google. In Best Doctors and Castle & Connolly's Best Doctors.

Contact Us

If you're interested, please contact us today at 602-375-8888 to schedule your consultation. Our office provides excellent plastic surgery to clients in the Glendale, Phoenix, Tempe, Scottsdale, Mesa, Surprise and Peoria areas of Arizona.

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