Frequently Asked Questions

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Get answers to the most common questions about breast reduction surgery, recovery, scarring, cost, and what to expect as a patient at the Connecticut Breast Reduction Center.

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Frequently Asked Questions Answers

About the Procedure

Breast reduction is one of the most rewarding procedures in plastic surgery. If you’re considering it, you probably have questions about what’s involved, how long it takes, and what the results actually look like. Here are the answers to the ones we hear most.

Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to make your breasts smaller, lighter, and more proportional to your body. The procedure also includes a lift, so your breasts will sit higher on your chest with a more natural shape. It’s performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure, meaning you go home the same day.

Most breast reductions take about two to three hours. More complex cases may take a bit longer. We focus on getting the best result for your body rather than rushing through the surgery.

Yes. A lift is built into every breast reduction. Dr. Reilly removes excess tissue and skin, then reshapes and repositions the breast so your results are both smaller and more lifted.

That depends on your body, your goals, and how much tissue needs to be removed. During your consultation, we will talk through what’s realistic and help you decide on a size that fits your frame and lifestyle. Keep in mind that cup sizes vary across brands, so the conversation focuses more on proportion and how you want to look and feel.

In most cases, yes. The nipple and areola are repositioned higher on the breast as part of the reshaping process. We use techniques that keep the nipple connected to its blood supply and nerve pathways to preserve sensation and function.

You can share your preferences, especially if scarring is a concern. But the technique is ultimately a medical decision based on your anatomy, the amount of tissue that needs to be removed, and what will give you the best results.

Candidacy

Not everyone needs the same approach, and the right time to move forward depends on your age, health, and goals. These questions can help you figure out if you’re a good breast reduction candidate.

Most women who are in good overall health and bothered by the size of their breasts are strong candidates. Ideally, your weight is stable, your breast development is complete, and you’re not currently pregnant or breastfeeding. The best way to find out is to schedule a consultation with the Connecticut Breast Reduction Center.

No. There is no minimum cup size for breast reduction. We focus on how your breast size affects your body, your comfort, and your daily life. Some patients are a D cup and in significant pain. Others are larger and managing fine. What matters is your experience.

Yes. Dr. Reilly performs breast reduction on teens when symptoms are severe and breast development has stabilized, typically at least two years after the start of menstruation. He meets with both the patient and their family to make sure everyone feels comfortable moving forward.

If you’re planning to become pregnant in the near future, we may recommend waiting. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can change the size and shape of your breasts, which could affect your results. That said, many women have the surgery before having children and are happy they did. It’s a personal decision worth discussing during your consultation.

A stable weight helps your results last. If you’re in an active weight loss phase, we’ll talk through the right timing during your consultation.

We ask patients to be smoke-free for a period of time before and after surgery for the best healing. If you smoke, we’ll walk you through the timing during your consultation.

Recovery

Recovery from breast reduction is more manageable than most patients expect. Here are answers to the most common questions about pain, downtime, and getting back to your routine.

Most patients take about one to two weeks off from work. You’ll feel sore and tired during the first week, but it improves quickly. Light activities can resume within the first few days. By six weeks, most patients are back to their full routine, including exercise.

Most patients describe it as soreness and tightness, which is well-managed by medication in the first few days. Many patients switch to over-the-counter pain relievers within a week.

Light walking is encouraged right away. Most patients can return to moderate exercise at about four weeks and full activity, including running and weight training, at six weeks. We will clear you based on how you’re healing.

Yes. You’ll wear a supportive surgical or sports bra around the clock for about six weeks. This supports healing, reduces swelling, and helps your breasts settle into their new shape. Avoid underwire bras during this time.

If you have a desk job, most patients return within one to two weeks. If your job requires physical activity or heavy lifting, you may need up to four to six weeks. Our team will give you specific guidance based on your situation.

You’ll notice a difference right away, but your final results take time. Swelling can last several weeks to a few months. Most patients see their true results by about three to six months, with continued subtle improvements up to a year.

Scars

Scarring is one of the most common concerns patients bring up. Here’s what you should know.

Every breast reduction leaves some degree of scarring. The most common pattern is an anchor-shaped scar around the areola, down to the crease, and along the fold beneath the breast. Dr. Reilly places incisions strategically so scars are hidden beneath bras, swimwear, and clothing.

Scars go through phases. They start out red and raised, then gradually flatten and lighten over the first 12 to 18 months. Most scars end up as thin, flat lines. Consistent scar care helps speed the process.

The best scar results start with following our post-op instructions closely. Silicone sheets or gel can be introduced around three to four weeks after surgery, and gentle massage helps once your incisions are fully healed. Protecting your scars from sun exposure throughout the process is just as important.

Professional treatments like laser therapy, steroid injections, or scar revision surgery can improve their appearance. We monitor your healing at follow-up appointments and will recommend treatment if needed.

Breastfeeding and Sensation

Many patients want to know how breast reduction surgery will affect breastfeeding and nipple sensation. Here’s what the research and our experience show.

Many women breastfeed successfully after breast reduction. We use techniques that preserve function, and if it’s a priority for you, mention it at your consultation.

Most patients retain sensation. Some temporary changes in the weeks after surgery are normal and typically resolve.

Cost and Insurance

We understand that cost is a major factor. Here’s what you need to know about pricing, insurance, and financing.

Often, yes. Breast reduction is one of the plastic surgery procedures most commonly covered by insurance when symptoms are documented. Coverage depends on your specific plan, and the Connecticut Breast Reduction Center team can help you navigate the process.

The cost varies depending on the complexity of your case and you’ll get a detailed quote after your consultation.

Yes. The Connecticut Breast Reduction Center offers flexible financing options to help make breast reduction more accessible. You can learn more about payment plans during your consultation.

The Schnur scale is a chart insurance companies use to determine the minimum amount of breast tissue that must be removed for a reduction to qualify as medically necessary. It’s based on your body surface area. The Connecticut Breast Reduction Center team can help you understand what your plan requires and guide you through the documentation.

Long-Term Results

Breast reduction results are long-lasting, but there are a few things to keep in mind over time.

Your breasts may change slightly over time due to aging, gravity, weight fluctuations, or pregnancy. But most patients enjoy long-lasting results that are significantly better than where they started. Maintaining a stable weight and wearing a supportive bra can help preserve your results.

The tissue removed during surgery is gone for good. Maintaining a stable weight is the best way to preserve them.

The vast majority of patients do not need additional surgery. In rare cases, a revision may be considered if there are concerns about symmetry, scarring, or changes over time. We will monitor your results during follow-up appointments.

About Dr. Reilly

Choosing the right surgeon is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Here’s a bit more about our surgeon and what to expect when you see him.

Yes. Dr. John Reilly is a board-certified plastic surgeon and Chief of Plastic Surgery at Griffin Hospital. He trained at Yale and has over 25 years of experience in plastic surgery.

Yes. Your initial consultation is complimentary. It’s a chance to discuss your concerns, get a physical evaluation, and understand your options with no obligation.

Our practice works with many commercial insurance plans that have out-of-network benefits. The team can help you understand your coverage, submit documentation, and navigate the approval process. If you’re unsure whether your plan qualifies, call the office and they’ll help you figure it out.

Yes. If you’re not ready to come in or live outside the immediate area, virtual consultations are available. It’s a great way to ask questions, share your concerns, and get a sense of whether breast reduction is right for you before scheduling an in-person visit.

During your breast reduction consult, we will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, discuss your goals, and recommend a surgical plan tailored to your body. We will also cover insurance and cost. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of your options and what to expect.

Yes. While the practice is based in Connecticut, we see patients from throughout the region. If you’re traveling for your procedure, the team can help with logistics and scheduling.

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