How is Breast Reduction Done? [Quick Guide]
Many prospective patients understand why a procedure is needed but not how the process works. Understanding how breast reduction is made can bring peace of mind to those considering the surgery on what happens and why it’s essential to find a plastic that’s well-versed in the procedure.
If you’re seeking expertise on breast reduction in San Antonio, TX, consult with Dr. Baumholtz. Otherwise, read on to learn how breast reduction is done.
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An Overview of Breast Reduction Surgery
Breast reduction surgery, or mammoplasty, is a procedure involving the removal of fat, tissue, and skin to reduce the size of a patient’s breasts. The reduction is usually made to relieve patients’ discomfort caused by large breasts or to improve appearance.
If you’re considering breast reduction surgery, it’s essential to find a competent, capable plastic surgeon experienced with the procedure. That ensures there will be minimal complications in the process and have a professional that will work towards your desired results.
Once you’ve chosen a surgeon for breast reduction surgery, how does the process work?
How Do You Prepare for Breast Reduction Surgery?
An initial consultation with your physician will gauge whether breast reduction surgery is right for you. This will lead to a preparation phase where you agree that you can benefit from the procedure.
The surgeon will prepare for your breast reduction surgery by checking off the following:
- Review your medical history and general health
- Discuss desired size and shape of your breasts
- Run through the expected process of the surgery, including risks and benefits
- Examine, measure, and photograph your breasts for medical records
You may be required to undergo some of the following to prepare for breast reduction surgery:
- Have a mammogram
- Stop smoking six weeks before and after surgery
- Avoid taking medicines and supplements that could affect bleeding, such as aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs
Once the preparation process is complete, how is breast reduction done?
What Happens in Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery generally involves an incision in the breasts, followed by liposuction to remove excess fat to the agreed size. You can find more details below for the procedure process.
- The surgeon will make an incision around the nipple and areola on each breast
- Excess breast tissue, fat, and skin will then get removed
- The remaining breast tissue will then get reshaped as symmetrically as possible
It’s important to note that methods of breast reduction can vary, and you should discuss the process with your physician. The surgeon will do their utmost to make each breast look-alike during surgery, but size and shape can have minor variations.
So what happens post-procedure?
What Happens After the Procedure?
Breast reduction surgery usually takes around 2-3 hours to complete. After the procedure, it’s not uncommon for patients to stay 1-2 nights in the hospital to ensure the recovery process goes smoothly.
Patients waking up from the procedure will find that their breasts will be covered with bandages in a surgical bra to hold them in place. During your hospital stay, the surgeon might place tubes under each arm to drain excess blood or fluid.
You’ll get discharged after a couple of days, where you’ll likely experience the following the first few days after the procedure:
- Tenderness around your breasts
- Possible swelling and bruising on the breasts
- You’ll need to wear a front-closing surgical bra to support your breasts
Once recovery begins post-procedure, how long will life return to normal?
See Before and After Photos of Breast Reduction Surgery
How Long Does It Take to Recover from Breast Reduction Surgery?
The general recovery period from breast reduction surgery is around 4-6 weeks. You’ll need to limit sports, exercise, and physical activity while your breasts heal and avoid any complications during recovery.
Patients will have to wear a surgical bra during this time to assist in the healing and reduce the swelling on their breasts. You’ll also notice scarring immediately after the procedure, where most will go away, but some will remain.
Your surgeon will recommend regular follow-ups to ensure the recovery process is going to plan. You’ll see the full extent of breast reduction results around six weeks after the procedure.
Where Can I Learn More About Breast Reduction?
Ask the question, “how is breast reduction done?” You could get a few different answers as many procedures require varied approaches. If you’re considering breast reduction surgery and want to know more about how it works, request a consultation at Baumholtz Plastic Surgery.
Dr. Baumholtz is an experienced breast reduction surgeon who’ll walk you through precisely how the procedure works for you from start to finish.
Baumholz Plastic Surgery with Dr. Baumholtz in San Antonio
ABOUT DR. MICHAEL BAUMHOLTZ
Meet Dr. Michael Baumholtz — or simply “Dr. B” — one of San Antonio’s most respected and trusted board-certified plastic surgeons. Known for his warm personality and remarkable precision, Dr. B combines artistry, experience, and honest communication to deliver natural, confidence-building results. Patients appreciate that he tells them what they need to know, not just what they want to hear — ensuring every transformation is guided by expertise, safety, and integrity.
With dual board certifications in General and Plastic Surgery, Dr. B brings decades of advanced training from world-class institutions including Baylor College of Medicine and the University of Texas Health Science Center. His rare blend of academic excellence, technical mastery, and genuine compassion has made him the surgeon of choice for discerning patients seeking aesthetic excellence. As former Division Chief of Plastic Surgery at the Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital and an educator of future surgeons, he sets the standard for quality and care.
Beyond the operating room, Dr. Baumholtz has authored or co-authored more than a dozen peer-reviewed publications and book chapters and delivered over 40 national and regional presentations. A guest oral examiner for the American Board of Plastic Surgery and Executive Committee Member of the Texas Society of Plastic Surgeons, he continues to advance surgical education while mentoring the next generation of physicians.
When you choose Dr. B, you’re choosing more than a surgeon — you’re partnering with a skilled artist who listens, educates, and delivers. His boutique, patient-focused practice offers a calm, supportive environment where every detail matters, from consultation to recovery.
