Breast Reduction in Delafield
Lighter, balanced, and finally comfortable.
Breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) is a surgical procedure that removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to decrease breast size and reshape the breasts. It addresses both cosmetic concerns and functional issues such as chronic back pain, neck pain, shoulder grooving, and skin irritation caused by disproportionately large breasts. Breast reduction is one of the highest patient-satisfaction procedures in plastic surgery, with studies showing significant improvements in physical and psychosocial well-being.
At a Glance
- A systematic review and meta-analysis found that satisfaction with breasts improved from a preoperative score of 22.9 to 73.0 postoperatively on the BREAST-Q scale[5]
- Approximately 76,734 breast reduction procedures were performed in the United States in 2024, representing a continuing upward trend[4]
- A long-term study found that quality-of-life improvements after breast reduction persisted for a median of 21 years, even through hormonal changes from pregnancy and menopause[6]
- Breast reduction addresses both functional symptoms and aesthetic concerns, with postoperative quality-of-life scores reaching levels comparable to the general healthy population[5]
Overview
Breast reduction removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to create smaller, lighter, and more proportionate breasts. The procedure also repositions the nipple and areola to a higher, more natural position. It is performed to relieve physical symptoms caused by macromastia (overly large breasts), including chronic back and neck pain, shoulder grooving from bra straps, skin rashes beneath the breasts, and difficulty participating in physical activities.
Several surgical techniques exist, each producing different scar patterns. The most common is the Wise pattern (anchor or inverted-T), which involves incisions around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and along the inframammary fold. The vertical (lollipop) technique uses incisions around the areola and vertically downward, without the horizontal component. The surgeon selects the technique based on the amount of tissue to be removed, breast shape, and patient anatomy.
Breast reduction is consistently associated with some of the highest patient satisfaction rates among surgical procedures. Research using the validated BREAST-Q questionnaire demonstrates significant improvements across physical well-being, psychosocial well-being, sexual well-being, and overall satisfaction with breasts following the procedure.
What to expect
- A comprehensive preoperative evaluation includes a physical examination, breast measurements, and discussion of goals and expectations. Mammography or breast imaging may be obtained as a baseline.
- The surgeon marks the incision pattern on the breasts while the patient is standing, identifying the new nipple position and the tissue to be removed.
- General anesthesia is administered. The surgical site is prepared and draped in a sterile fashion.
- Incisions are made according to the planned pattern. The most common approaches are the anchor (inverted-T) or vertical (lollipop) technique.
- Excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are excised. The nipple-areola complex is repositioned upward on a pedicle that maintains its blood supply and innervation.
- The remaining breast tissue is sculpted and reshaped. The skin is redraped over the new breast mound and closed with layered sutures.
- Surgical drains may be placed to reduce fluid accumulation. A supportive surgical bra or dressings are applied.
- The patient is monitored in the recovery area and typically goes home the same day. Detailed postoperative instructions are provided for wound care, activity restrictions, and follow-up scheduling.
How a breast reduction works
- The surgeon makes incisions according to the chosen pattern, most commonly the anchor (Wise) pattern, which includes an incision around the areola, a vertical incision from the areola to the breast crease, and a horizontal incision along the inframammary fold.
- Excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are removed. The amount removed depends on the patient's anatomy, symptoms, and desired outcome. Tissue is sometimes sent for pathologic examination.
- The nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher, more natural location. In most cases, the nipple remains attached to its blood supply and nerve connections during repositioning (pedicle technique), which helps preserve sensation and the potential for breastfeeding.
- The remaining breast tissue is reshaped and the skin envelope is tightened to create a more proportionate, lifted breast contour. Internal sutures support the new breast shape.
- The incisions are closed in layers. Drains may be placed temporarily to prevent fluid accumulation. The procedure typically takes approximately three to five hours and is performed under general anesthesia.
When it's recommended
- Chronic back, neck, or shoulder pain attributed to breast weight
- Deep shoulder grooves from bra straps
- Skin irritation, rashes, or infections beneath the breast fold
- Difficulty participating in exercise or physical activities due to breast size
- Breast size disproportionate to body frame
- Postural problems related to breast weight
- Self-consciousness or psychosocial distress related to breast size
- Breast asymmetry where one breast is significantly larger than the other
Is a breast reduction right for you?
Reach out to learn more from Dr. Lucas Boehm.
Concerns it addresses
Recovery & aftercare
- Most patients take one to two weeks off from work or school. Swelling, bruising, and mild to moderate discomfort are expected during the first few weeks.
- A supportive surgical bra or compression garment is typically worn for several weeks to minimize swelling and support the healing breast tissue.
- Strenuous physical activity, heavy lifting, and vigorous exercise are generally restricted for at least four to six weeks following surgery.
- Surgical drains, if placed, are usually removed within the first week. Sutures may be removed or may dissolve on their own, depending on the technique used.
- Final breast shape and scar maturation may take several months to a year to fully develop. Swelling gradually resolves over this period.
Alternatives
- Breast lift (mastopexy) without tissue reduction for sagging without excess volume
- Liposuction-only breast reduction for patients with primarily fatty breast tissue
- Physical therapy and supportive garments for symptom management without surgery
- Weight loss, which may reduce breast size in some individuals
Related treatments
How much does a breast reduction cost?
A breast reduction at Consona with Dr. Boehm costs around $11,250. The exact amount depends on your unique goals and treatment needs. Schedule a consultation today to learn more and receive a personalized quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) is a surgical procedure that removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to decrease breast size and improve breast shape. It can relieve physical symptoms such as back pain, neck pain, and shoulder grooving caused by disproportionately large breasts, and typically repositions the nipple to a more natural location.
- The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, so patients do not feel pain during surgery. Mild to moderate discomfort, swelling, and soreness are expected during the first one to two weeks of recovery. Pain medication is typically prescribed for the initial recovery period, and most patients report that discomfort is manageable.
- Breast reduction is generally considered a safe procedure when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. It is one of the highest patient satisfaction procedures in plastic surgery. As with any surgery, there are risks, which are discussed in the safety section above.
- Most patients take one to two weeks off from work. Strenuous activity and heavy lifting are typically restricted for four to six weeks. Swelling gradually subsides over several weeks to months, and final breast shape may take up to a year to fully develop.
- The procedure takes approximately three to five hours under general anesthesia. The surgeon removes excess tissue through incisions, repositions the nipple, and reshapes the breast. Most patients go home the same day. A supportive bra or compression garment is worn during the initial recovery period.
- People who currently smoke, have uncontrolled diabetes or other conditions that impair healing, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or whose breasts are not fully developed may not be suitable candidates. A thorough evaluation by a board-certified plastic surgeon can determine individual eligibility.
Breast Reduction risks & candidacy
Who should avoid this
- Active breast infection or untreated breast disease
- Uncontrolled diabetes or other conditions that significantly impair wound healing
- Active smoking (smoking compromises blood flow and increases complication risk)
- Current pregnancy or active breastfeeding
- Unrealistic expectations about surgical outcomes
- Breasts that are not yet fully developed
- Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant use without medical clearance
- Morbid obesity (may increase surgical risk and affect outcomes)
Possible risks
- Permanent scarring along incision lines (scars typically fade over time)
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation, which may be temporary or permanent
- Potential inability to breastfeed, depending on the extent of tissue removal
- Wound healing complications, including delayed healing or wound separation
- Infection at the surgical site
- Bleeding or hematoma formation
- Breast asymmetry in size, shape, or nipple position
- Fat necrosis (areas of hardened, dead fat tissue)
- Partial or complete loss of nipple-areola complex (rare)
- Unfavorable scarring, including hypertrophic or keloid scars
- Need for revision surgery
Your surgeon
Care that respects what makes you, you.
Dr. Lucas Boehm is a Wisconsin native, board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon and the founder of Consona Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics. His practice is dedicated exclusively to aesthetic surgery of the face, nose, breast, and body, with particular expertise in deep plane facelifts, rhinoplasty, and aesthetic breast surgery. He completed his undergraduate education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin, and completed his plastic surgery residency there as well. He then pursued an Aesthetic Society-endorsed fellowship in aesthetic surgery under the mentorship of Dr. Bradley Calobrace in Louisville, Kentucky. Known for meticulous attention to detail, he approaches each case with precision and intention. His philosophy emphasizes harmony and balance – enhancing what is already beautiful while ensuring every change feels natural, thoughtful, and uniquely you.
- Board-certified
- Am. Board of Plastic Surgery
- Fellowship-trained
- Aesthetic surgery
- 12+ years
- In practice
Sources & references
This article draws on 7 sources, including peer-reviewed research, leading medical institutions.
Government & research
Medical institutions
Medically reviewed by Dr. Lucas Boehm, MD · Last reviewed: 2026-06-13