Large, heavy breasts can affect how you feel during exercise, work, sleep, and everyday activities. Neck, shoulder, or back discomfort, bra-strap grooves, skin irritation, and difficulty finding supportive clothing are common reasons patients consider breast reduction. At American Surgical Arts in Mullica Hill, NJ, Dr. Sean Bidic and Dr. Vinay S. Gundlapalli are both board-certified plastic surgeons with cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery experience.
What Does Breast Reduction Change?
The operation reduces breast volume by removing excess tissue, fat, and skin. The remaining tissue is reshaped, and the nipple and areola are typically repositioned to suit the new breast contour.
Reducing breast weight may ease concerns such as:
- Neck, shoulder, or back discomfort
- Bra straps digging into the shoulders
- Irritation beneath the breast crease
- Difficulty exercising comfortably
- Problems with clothing or bra fit
- Breast size that feels out of proportion with your frame
Reshaping the breast also creates some lifting. If sagging is your primary concern and you are comfortable with your current volume, a breast lift may be a better match.
How Do Dr. Bidic and Dr. Gundlapalli Plan Breast Reduction?
Your anatomy and the amount of tissue being removed guide the surgical approach. Common incision patterns include a vertical, or “lollipop,” incision and an inverted-T, sometimes called an “anchor,” pattern. Liposuction may also be incorporated when localized fat needs additional contouring.
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Before surgery, Dr. Bidic and Dr. Gundlapalli discuss the proposed incision pattern, expected scars, nipple position, breast shape, and how much reduction is appropriate for your body and goals.
See What Our Patients Have To Say...
"I came into the office for a Breast Reduction and saw Dr. Vinay Gundlapalli. He was amazing from start to finish. He answered my questions thoroughly and made me feel at ease when I was so nervous to have this procedure done. He has such great bedside manners and made sure that I was completely comfortable in every aspect. I had my procedure done in June and it was honestly the best decision I ever made. I cannot thank Dr. Gundlapalli enough for everything he did for me. I will be forever thankful. He is such a great doctor, and his staff is amazing. I am grateful for Jessica, his assistant, as she speaks Spanish and made the transition very easy for me. I am now looking into getting a Blepharoplasty with Dr. Gundlapalli as I will never go anywhere else for any services. Very satisfied patient." - M.A.
What Is Recovery Like?
Swelling, bruising, soreness, and tightness are expected early in recovery. You will need someone to drive you home, and we will give you instructions for your support garment, incisions, medications, activity, and follow-up visits.
Restrictions change as healing progresses. Incisions also mature gradually, so scars usually continue to change in appearance over time.
Future pregnancy, aging, or meaningful weight changes can alter breast shape after surgery. Keeping your weight reasonably stable can help maintain your postoperative proportions.
Why Choose American Surgical Arts for Breast Reduction in Mullica Hill?
Dr. Bidic and Dr. Gundlapalli are both certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and bring reconstructive as well as cosmetic breast surgery experience to treatment planning. American Surgical Arts also has a fully accredited outpatient surgical center in Mullica Hill, allowing consultation, surgery, and postoperative care to remain within the same practice.
Just as importantly, the plan is based on more than a cup-size goal. Our surgeons consider breast weight, skin quality, nipple position, body proportions, symptoms, and the changes you want to make.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Reduction
Will Breast Reduction Leave Scars?
Yes. Scar location depends on the incision pattern required. The lines typically evolve as they mature, although they do not disappear completely.
Can Breast Reduction Affect Breastfeeding?
It can. Removing and reshaping tissue may affect milk production or delivery. Our article on breastfeeding after breast reduction discusses this in more detail.
Do I Have to Lose Weight First?
Not necessarily. Your overall health and weight stability are considered when deciding whether surgery is appropriate.
Will Insurance Cover Breast Reduction?
Some insurance plans provide coverage when specific medical criteria are met. Requirements differ by policy, so coverage should be reviewed with your insurer and our office.
How Is a Reduction Different From a Breast Lift?
A reduction removes volume while reshaping the breast. A lift primarily changes position and contour without the same degree of volume removal.
Talk With Our Surgeons About Breast Reduction
You do not have to make decisions about breast size, scarring, or recovery without a clear understanding of what surgery involves. Contact us at American Surgical Arts to meet with Dr. Sean Bidic and Dr. Vinay S. Gundlapalli in Mullica Hill, NJ. Call 856-362-8898 to discuss whether breast reduction may help with your physical concerns and goals.