BREAST REDUCTION IN BRYN MAWR & PHILADELPHIA, PA

Main Line Plastic Surgery in Bryn Mawr offers breast reduction to help patients relieve pain and achieve their aesthetic goals. Breasts are an important aspect of a woman’s femininity and attractiveness. However, their size may harm the patient’s life. It is common for women with very large breasts to experience physical issues, such as chronic back and neck pain, that make it hard to lead an active lifestyle. Patients may have difficulty participating in physical activities and finding clothing that fits properly. Our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Raymond Jean, has helped many women improve the quality of their lives through breast reduction. It is easy to schedule a consultation and begin this exciting journey toward a renewed sense of comfort and confidence.

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Table of Contents

what is breast
reduction?
BREAST REDUCTION
TECHNIQUES
CONSULTATION &
PREPARATION FOR
BREAST REDUCTION
BREAST REDUCTION
PROCEDURE
BREAST REDUCTION
RECOVERY
CANDIDATES FOR BREAST
REDUCTION SURGERY
BENEFITS OF BREAST
REDUCTION
COST OF BREAST
REDUCTION IN BRYN
MAWR & PHILADELPHIA
IS BREAST
REDUCTION COVERED
BY INSURANCE?
WHAT MAKES OUR BREAST
REDUCTION SURGERY
DIFFERENT FROM OTHERS?
what is breast
reduction?
BREAST REDUCTION
TECHNIQUES
CONSULTATION &
PREPARATION FOR
BREAST REDUCTION
BREAST REDUCTION
PROCEDURE
BREAST REDUCTION
RECOVERY
CANDIDATES FOR BREAST
REDUCTION SURGERY
BENEFITS OF BREAST
REDUCTION
COST OF BREAST
REDUCTION IN BRYN
MAWR & PHILADELPHIA
IS BREAST
REDUCTION COVERED
BY INSURANCE?
WHAT MAKES OUR BREAST
REDUCTION SURGERY
DIFFERENT FROM OTHERS?
Woman in blue camisole cupping breast with hand to show fullness

WHAT IS BREAST REDUCTION?

Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to achieve a size that is more in proportion with the body. The goal of breast reduction is to give a woman smaller, lifted breasts that are more comfortable and less restricting to her lifestyle. During the procedure, Dr. Jean makes incisions and removes excess tissue before reshaping the breasts and repositioning the nipple. The reduction surgery typically takes 2 to 5 hours to perform under general anesthesia. As a result, women get smaller, uplifted breasts that improve their comfort and self-confidence.
How much the patient would like to reduce their breasts is completely their decision. There is no right or wrong answer. Most of our patients aim to reduce their breasts by 1-2 cup sizes.

before & after

Before and after comparison of breast augmentation results labeled BEFORE and AFTER
Before and after comparison of breast augmentation results labeled BEFORE and AFTER
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BREAST REDUCTION TECHNIQUES

WISE-PATTERN SKIN RESECTION

The wise-pattern (or inverted-T) skin resection is a common technique used in breast reduction surgery. It involves an anchor incision around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the crease. Excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin are removed through this opening. The remaining tissue is then reshaped, and the incisions are closed. This technique helps to lift the breasts while reducing their overall size.

The inferior pedicle technique also removes excess tissue through an anchor incision. However, there is an extra step to preserve nerves and blood flow to the nipple. The surgeon leaves a strip of tissue, called a pedicle, attached from the bottom part of the breast up to the nipple area. It contains the nerves and blood vessels that supply the nipple so it can stay healthy after surgery. With the pedicle intact, excess tissue is removed from around it, reshaping the breast. This technique helps maintain sensation in the nipple, which can be lost with other reduction methods.

The wise-pattern (or inverted-T) skin resection is a common technique used in breast reduction surgery. It involves an anchor incision around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the crease. Excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin are removed through this opening. The remaining tissue is then reshaped, and the incisions are closed. This technique helps to lift the breasts while reducing their overall size.

The inferior pedicle technique also removes excess tissue through an anchor incision. However, there is an extra step to preserve nerves and blood flow to the nipple. The surgeon leaves a strip of tissue, called a pedicle, attached from the bottom part of the breast up to the nipple area. It contains the nerves and blood vessels that supply the nipple so it can stay healthy after surgery. With the pedicle intact, excess tissue is removed from around it, reshaping the breast. This technique helps maintain sensation in the nipple, which can be lost with other reduction methods.

Woman wearing black lace underwire bra showing breast contour
Woman wearing white bra showing symmetrical breast augmentation enhancement results

CONSULTATION & PREPARATION FOR BREAST REDUCTION

The first step is to schedule a breast reduction consultation with Dr. Jean to discuss the patient’s goals and expectations for the surgery. Based on the health evaluation, he recommends the technique, incision placement, and amount of tissue to be removed that would achieve the desired outcome. Dr. Jean also explains the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure.
Next, we conduct standard preoperative tests, including blood work and possibly an EKG based on health history. The surgeon provides instructions to stop smoking and avoid taking certain vitamins, herbs, or medications that can increase bleeding risk before surgery. Clearance from a primary care physician may also be required in some cases. Patients are required to refrain from eating or drinking after midnight before the scheduled breast reduction.

BREAST REDUCTION PROCEDURE

ANESTHESIA

Dr. Jean uses general anesthesia for the breast reduction surgery to maximize patient comfort. Our anesthesiologist provides intravenous medications to put the patient into an unconscious state before the procedure begins. These drugs block pain signals and awareness in the brain during the operation. Vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, are closely monitored to ensure the patient’s safety and comfort under anesthesia.

Dr. Jean makes an anchor incision – around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and along the crease. In very rare cases, he uses a lollipop incision – the same as an anchor but with no horizontal cut along the breast crease. It is selected when a small amount of tissue needs to be removed. The incisions provide access to make all further changes in the breast shape.

Dr. Jean removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin from the breasts through the opening. The surgeon uses a specialized scalpel that simultaneously cuts and cauterizes to minimize bleeding. Liposuction may also be performed to remove fat. Reducing excess breast tissue is crucial for achieving the patient’s goals.
Dr. Jean repositions the nipple/areola complex higher on the breast. This can affect the nerves in the nipples and impact sensation. We use the more advanced techniques to prevent this, and most patients regain full sensation as their nerves adjust to the changes. The remaining tissue is reshaped into a smaller contour. There is no need for a separate breast lift surgery because it is already included.
Finally, the incisions are closed with layered sutures and surgical tape or glue. Temporary drains may be placed to prevent fluid buildup. Dressings and bandages are applied over the closed incisions.
Woman with long dark hair wearing black bra showing breast shape and volume
Woman with long blonde hair wearing pink tank top showing natural-looking breast enhancement

BREAST REDUCTION RECOVERY

WEEK 1
In the first week after breast reduction surgery, patients can expect swelling, bruising, and mild-to-moderate pain. Bandages and a surgical bra are worn to provide support as the breasts heal. Patients are advised to rest with limited movement of the arms and upper body. Pain medication is prescribed to maximize comfort.
During the second week, swelling and bruising continue to improve. The bandages and surgical bra remain in place. Patients can return to light activity, such as walking, but strenuous exercise is still restricted. Pain medication may still be needed to manage flare-ups.
Most of the swelling and bruising subside three to four weeks after surgery. At this point, the surgical bra may be replaced with a soft, supportive bra. Patients can gradually increase arm movement and resume easy household chores, driving, and other light activities. Any lingering pain should be mild.
At six weeks, patients can stop wearing a bra if comfortable. Breast reduction scars continue to mature and fade over the next few months. Most patients return to their normal routine by six weeks, including exercise. Complete healing takes up to a year, but major improvements are seen in the first 3-6 months after a breast reduction.

CANDIDATES FOR BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY

If a patient experiences problems in their daily life due to the size of their breasts, then they may be a good candidate for breast reduction. Common issues that can be addressed with this surgery include:
Line illustration of a woman examining her underarm area
Chronic back, neck, or shoulder pain
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Painful grooves caused by the bra straps digging into the skin
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Problems exercising and engaging in athletic activities
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Postural issues caused by the weight of the breasts
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Chafing or irritation of the skin underneath the breasts
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Problems finding clothing that fits well
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Unwanted attention focused on breasts
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Feelings of self-consciousness

In addition, breast reduction candidates should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations for the outcomes of their procedure. If they smoke, they will need to quit before surgery and during the recovery period since nicotine can affect healing and results.

BENEFITS OF BREAST REDUCTION

This surgery has extremely high rates of satisfaction: 90.3% of women who have had breast reduction procedures report that they are happy with their results. Breast reduction can improve their health, appearance, comfort, and lifestyle. Some of the benefits of this surgery include:

Improved physical comfort

Reduction in chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain

Improved ability to participate in favorite athletic activities

More positive body image and self-confidence

Balanced figure and proportional body contours

No drooping breasts and excess skin

Better clothing choice

Women who have had a breast reduction tell us that they now feel more satisfied shopping for clothes and swimsuits. They have joined exercise classes they formerly would not have considered. They have taken up sports or hobbies that they have always considered doing but avoided. In most cases, our breast reduction patients develop a completely new body image, which is based on confidence rather than being continually self-conscious.
Woman wearing black bra showing fuller breast contour after augmentation
Woman in beige bra cupping her breasts with both hands

COST OF BREAST REDUCTION IN BRYN MAWR & PHILADELPHIA

Breast reduction cost in Bryn Mawr and Philadelphia ranges from $5,000 to $15,000. The price includes the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, operating room use, and post-surgery garments. Patients should understand that the cost depends on several factors, such as the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon’s experience and credentials, and the geographic location.

Main Line Plastic Surgery offers competitive prices while providing top-quality care. Patients can receive accurate cost estimates during the initial consultation with our surgeon. We offer flexible financing from CareCredit to make our breast reduction procedures more comfortable.

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why We don't participate with insurance for Breast reduction?

The focus of an insurance breast reduction is to relieve pain.  The insurance dictates the amount of breast tissue that must be removed (this amount for many patients would leave them with disproportionately small unattractive breasts).  Your insurance companies main goal is to eliminate your symptoms.  They really don’t care how your breasts looks afterwards. It is a functional surgery as far a they are concerned, not a cosmetic one. We have had patients present for breast augmentation after having insurance based breast reduction by another surgeon due there breasts being disproportionately small to their body. Now needing two surgeries instead of just one.  While our goal with breast reduction is to reduced the size of your breasts, we do so in a way that just as strongly focuses on making beautify breast that fit with your body.  Many times this includes liposuction of bra fat which is not allowed by insurance companies.  

Our focus with breast reduction surgery is you! Achieving the results you want, with you guiding the desired appearance of your breasts not some insurance company protocol.  Dr Jean performs esthetic breast reductions, where the focus is on achieving beautifully proportionate smaller and lifted breasts, and not just a reduction in size. 

Woman with curly dark hair smiling while adjusting bra strap on shoulder

WHAT MAKES OUR BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY DIFFERENT FROM OTHERS?

Dr. Jean combines artistic talent with surgical skills that were honed through comprehensive training and decades of experience. His commitment to research and advancing techniques ensures that patients benefit from the latest innovations in the field. Dr. Jean listens carefully to women’s concerns and develops personalized plans.
Each breast reduction surgery performed by our doctor is carefully executed to achieve the best aesthetic results. With his attentive care, artistic insight, and dedication to patients’ well-being, Dr. Jean is an excellent choice for women seeking breast reduction. This procedure can be truly life-changing due to increased comfort, confidence, and ability to participate in new activities.