A Breast Reduction is a procedure in which the size of the breast is reduced. If done to lessen health risks, breast reduction surgery may be covered under your insurance. Breast reduction surgery has the highest satisfaction rate of any cosmetic procedure.

An incision is made on the underside of the breast and around the areola, the dark area of the nipple. Excess tissue is removed and the nipple is moved upwards to give the appearance of a naturally smaller breast. This surgery is done under general anesthesia, so you will sleep through the entire procedure.

Breast Reduction improves the shape of the breast, decreases the mass of the breast and corrects asymmetrical breasts. Removed fat is examined for signs of cancer and may serve as an early detector. You should have smaller breasts with less sagging and a decrease in conditions such as back strain, trouble breathing, sleep disruption, limited movement and skin irritation. Mammograms can be taken more easily and with higher accuracy.

Breast Reduction is safe, although as a surgical procedure it does have the risk of complications, such as infection, excessive scarring, loss of sensation, nerve damage, asymmetry, blood clots, wound separation, change in the shape or position of the nipple and inability to breast feed. In very rare cases, the blood supply to the nipple is lost, and the tissue dies. Additional surgery may be necessary.

Numbness, bruising and swelling are generally temporary. The risk of side effects can be reduced by following your doctor's advice and gently easing yourself back into your normal routine.

Because this is a surgical procedure, it requires some recovery time. You will need to arrange for transportation to take you home and rest for several days.

You should expect some pain, bruising and fatigue. Incision scars will be red at first and will fade over time.

You should see immediate improvement in conditions such as back pain. The final appearance of the breasts may take a couple months to settle.

The procedure typically takes a couple hours.

Only those with fully developed breasts can undergo this procedure.

Women with active infections are not candidates. Women who wish to breast feed their children should consider postponing surgery.

Results should be permanent, although breast size can be affected by other factors, such as pregnancy and weight gain. In order to achieve the desired results, it is recommended that you do not have breast reduction surgery at the beginning of any weight loss regime.

Liposuction offers a quick recovery time and may be an option; however, the shape of the breast cannot be adjusted. Those whose breasts are sagging should consider a breast lift.

Additional treatment should not be necessary but can be performed in the case of dissatisfaction or complications.

All surgeries leave scars and require recovery time. In many cases, the milk ducts are cut during surgery, leaving the patient unable to breast feed.

The patient's individual surgeon will provide specific instructions prior to surgery. There will be guidelines on eating, drinking, smoking and medications to take and avoid. Patients should make arrangements for someone to drive them home after the surgery.

Sleep with your head and back elevated. You will also have to wear a surgical bra 24 hours a day for about a month. You will be able to move more comfortably at this point, although you should still avoid lifting, bending or straining. After two weeks, your stitches will be removed, but you should avoid vigorous exercise for at least a month.