Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammaplasty)
By Dr. Tim Neavin, MD | Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Last updated: October 2025
Available at our offices:
Breast Reduction in Beverly Hills
About Dr. Tim Neavin
My philosophy in breast reduction centers on achieving harmony between form and function. After years of practice, I’ve learned that the most successful outcomes come from listening carefully to each patient’s concerns and designing a surgical plan that addresses both their physical discomfort and aesthetic goals. Breast reduction isn’t just about removing tissue—it’s about creating a balanced, proportionate silhouette that allows you to move through life with confidence and comfort.
During our consultation, I take time to understand your unique situation. We’ll discuss your symptoms, examine your anatomy, and review realistic expectations together. I believe in transparency throughout this process, walking you through exactly how the procedure will address issues like back pain, shoulder grooves, and skin irritation. My goal is to ensure you feel fully informed and comfortable with every aspect of your treatment plan.
What sets my approach apart is the attention to detail in achieving natural-looking results. I carefully consider how your new breast size will complement your overall frame, ensuring the outcome looks like it belongs on your body. When insurance coverage may apply, I’ll guide you through that process with clear documentation and honest assessments of your candidacy.
What is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction is a surgical procedure designed to reduce breast size while creating a more youthful, lifted appearance. This breast surgery involves removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to achieve breasts that are more proportionate to your body and significantly more comfortable for daily activities. In many cases, breast reduction surgery qualifies for insurance coverage when patients meet specific medical criteria.
The primary focus of breast reduction is symptom relief. Many of my patients come to me struggling with chronic back and neck pain, deep shoulder grooves from bra straps, and skin irritation under the breast fold. By reducing the weight and improving the position of the breasts, we can eliminate these issues while creating a more attractive contour that fits better in clothing.
Every breast reduction I perform is customized to the individual patient. I consider factors like your body proportions, lifestyle needs, and personal preferences to determine the optimal size and shape. Some patients want a dramatic reduction, while others prefer a more modest change. My job is to help you find the right balance between symptom relief and your aesthetic vision.
Breast Size, Symptoms & Candidacy
The decision to pursue breast reduction typically stems from physical symptoms that interfere with your quality of life. Common complaints I hear include persistent neck and back pain, deep grooves in the shoulders from bra straps, and rashes or irritation under the breast fold. Many patients also report difficulty finding well-fitting clothes and feeling self-conscious about their appearance.
During your evaluation, I’ll assess your symptoms, take detailed measurements, and discuss your goals. I often show patients before-and-after photos of similar cases to help visualize potential outcomes. We’ll talk about realistic size goals and what amount of tissue removal might be necessary to achieve your desired results. This conversation helps ensure we’re aligned on expectations before moving forward.
Candidacy depends on several factors beyond just breast size. I look for patients who are in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and are bothered enough by their symptoms to justify surgery. Sometimes a less aggressive approach is appropriate, while other cases require more significant tissue removal to achieve meaningful symptom relief and aesthetic improvement.
Reduction Techniques & Scar Patterns
I choose the surgical technique based on your specific anatomy and reduction goals. My priority is always achieving excellent shape and symmetry while minimizing scarring. The incision pattern I select depends on how much tissue needs to be removed and how much skin tightening is required. Here are the main approaches I use:
| Approach | Incision Pattern | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vertical (lollipop) | Around the areola + vertical to crease | Moderate reductions with reshaping | Concise footprint, strong shaping |
| Wise-pattern (anchor) | Around the areola + vertical + short crease line | Larger changes and extra skin | Max envelope control |
| Liposuction-assisted | Small access points | Select candidates with good recoil | Limited elevation effect |
In addition to tissue removal, I often need to resize and reposition the areola to create natural-looking proportions. I take great care in preserving nipple sensation and the ability to breastfeed when possible. During our consultation, I’ll explain which technique is best suited for your goals and show you exactly where the incisions will be placed.
The Reduction Procedure: Step by Step
On the day of surgery, I begin with careful markings that guide every aspect of the procedure. These markings ensure symmetry and help me achieve the exact shape we discussed during your consultation. The surgery itself involves removing the predetermined amount of breast tissue and skin, then reshaping the remaining tissue to create an attractive, youthful contour.
Throughout the procedure, I pay close attention to maintaining blood supply to the nipple and preserving as much sensation as possible. I use advanced techniques for tissue handling and wound closure to promote optimal healing and minimize scarring. The entire process typically takes two to four hours, depending on the complexity of your case.
Most patients go home the same day with detailed post-operative instructions. I provide you with everything you need to feel confident about your recovery, including 24-hour contact information for any questions or concerns. My team and I believe that clear communication and thorough preparation are essential for a smooth recovery experience.
Recovery Timeline
Recovery from breast reduction follows a predictable pattern, and I’ll guide you through each phase. The key is following instructions carefully and being patient as your body heals. Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how manageable the recovery process is when they know what to expect.
- Days 1–3: Soreness is managed; rest and brief walks help circulation.
- Week 1–2: Showering per guidance; light work may resume if cleared.
- Weeks 3–6: Gradual activity; avoid heavy lifting until cleared; supportive garments continue.
- 3–12 months: Lines mature; the outline stabilizes as the envelope adapts.
One of the most rewarding aspects of breast reduction recovery is how quickly patients notice improvement in their symptoms. Many tell me they feel lighter and more comfortable within just a few weeks, even before the swelling has completely resolved. The long-term results continue to improve as the tissues settle and scars fade.
Expected Results
The results of breast reduction are typically dramatic and long-lasting. Patients consistently report significant improvement in back and neck pain, better posture, and increased confidence in their appearance. Clothes fit better, exercise becomes more comfortable, and many discover activities they had previously avoided due to breast size.
Cost & Coverage
Breast reduction is often covered by insurance when specific medical criteria are met. I work closely with patients to document symptoms and provide the necessary information for insurance approval. For those paying privately, I offer transparent pricing and financing options to make the procedure accessible. My team will walk you through all aspects of the financial process during your consultation.
Risk & Patient Safety
As with any surgical procedure, breast reduction carries some risks, which I discuss thoroughly with every patient. I minimize these risks through careful patient selection, meticulous surgical technique, and comprehensive post-operative care. Most complications, when they occur, are minor and easily managed. I emphasize the importance of following all pre- and post-operative instructions to ensure the safest possible experience.
Proper wound care and sun protection are simple steps that significantly improve your final results.
Breast Reduction vs Other Procedures
Breast reduction differs from other breast procedures in its primary focus on symptom relief through tissue removal. Unlike a breast lift, which primarily addresses sagging, or breast augmentation, which adds volume, reduction surgery removes excess tissue to create smaller, lighter, more comfortable breasts. Occasionally, patients who have had significant reductions later consider small implants for additional volume, but most are thrilled with their lighter, more manageable size.
Our Clinic & Care Team
My practice is built around providing exceptional patient care in a comfortable, professional environment. From your initial consultation through your final follow-up visit, my team and I are committed to making your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. We believe that excellent communication and personalized attention are just as important as surgical skill in achieving outstanding results.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will I feel lighter?
Most patients notice significant relief from breast weight and related symptoms within the first few weeks after surgery, even before swelling has completely resolved.
How are scars placed?
I design incision patterns to follow natural breast contours, typically around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease. For larger reductions, a small horizontal incision along the crease may be necessary.
Is this considered a cosmetic procedure?
While breast reduction does improve appearance, most patients seek this surgery primarily for symptom relief. Many cases qualify for insurance coverage based on medical necessity rather than cosmetic preferences.
Dr. Tim Neavin is an outstanding plastic surgeon Professional with an uplifting bedside manner to make you feel comfortable post surgery; he sees the beauty in you and improves it with the right cosmetic technique. – Hugo
