Breast Reduction in Scottsdale, AZ

Oversized breasts can create social and functional setbacks for women. Furthermore, extremely large breasts can lead to insecurity issues and embarrassment, as well as neck and back pain. Our team of plastic surgeons in Scottsdale, AZ, helps countless women get back their confidence and feel more comfortable through a cosmetic breast reduction.

Table of Contents

What Is a Breast Reduction?

This cosmetic surgery at Forma Plastic Surgery reduces excess fat, tissue, and skin to recontour the breasts to a more compatible size. Breast reduction surgery also reduces the size of the nipples/areolas and repositions them, so they are symmetrical with the new breast size and look natural.

For more information, contact our Scottsdale, AZ, office to schedule a consultation.

Before & After

Breast Reduction Incisions

Donut

A donut incision, also called a periareolar incision, is made around the edge of the areola. This technique is typically used for women who need a small to moderate reduction or a slight lift. Because the incision stays within the natural border of the areola, it often results in a more discreet scar.

Lollipop

The lollipop incision includes an incision around the areola plus a vertical line down to the breast fold. This approach allows the surgeon to remove more tissue and reshape the breast with greater precision. It’s a common technique for moderate reductions and provides significant lifting and contouring.

Anchor (Wise-Pattern)

The anchor incision includes three parts: around the areola, vertically down to the breast fold, and along the crease beneath the breast. This method provides the most access for tissue removal and reshaping, making it ideal for larger reductions or cases requiring extensive correction. It offers the most dramatic improvements in shape and comfort.

Breast Reduction Incisions

Breast Reduction Procedure: Step by Step

Anesthesia

Breast reduction surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia to ensure you are fully comfortable throughout the procedure. Our surgeon and anesthesia team will monitor you closely from start to finish to maintain your safety and keep you relaxed during the operation.

Incisions

Our surgeon will choose an incision pattern based on your anatomy and surgical goals. Standard options include the donut, lollipop, or anchor method. These incision types provide access for removing excess breast tissue and reshaping the breasts. The placement of the incisions is designed to help create natural contours while keeping scarring as discreet as possible.

Tissue Removal and Reshaping

During the procedure, our surgeon removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to reduce the weight and volume of the breasts. After the appropriate amount of tissue is taken, the remaining breast structure is sculpted to create a smaller, more lifted, and well-balanced shape. This step is tailored to each patient to ensure proportionate results.

Nipple and Areola Positioning

Once the breast has been reduced and reshaped, the nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher, more youthful location. If needed, the areolas may also be reduced for better harmony with the new breast size. Care is taken to maintain natural alignment and preserve sensation as much as possible.

Closing the Incisions

After reshaping is complete, the incisions are closed with layered sutures to support the new breast contour. The incision along the breast crease is often used when additional access is needed for larger reductions, helping the lower scar remain hidden in the natural fold.

Final Contouring

Before completing the procedure, our surgeon evaluates both breasts carefully to ensure symmetry, smooth contours, and a balanced appearance. In some cases, drains may be placed to reduce fluid buildup, depending on the surgical plan. Once everything looks symmetrical and stable, the procedure is finished, and dressings are applied.

Breast Reduction Recovery and Results Timeline

After surgery, we will take you to a quiet recovery area and then release you home to heal. A small, tube-like draining device will most likely be inserted to assist with bleeding and swelling. A medical sports bra will be provided for a few days to boost blood flow to the breasts. We use modern methods, which result in minimal scarring. However, it’s important to remember that scarring is a factor with this procedure. Within about a month, your breasts will naturally fall into position, and the post-op effects will dissipate. It’s crucial to stay at a healthy weight so that the outcomes are not compromised.

Nipple and Areola Changes After Breast Reduction

As part of breast reduction surgery, the nipples and areolas are often adjusted to match the new breast size and shape. This may include reducing the size of enlarged areolas and repositioning the nipples higher on the breast for a more youthful, balanced appearance. Our surgeons use advanced techniques to preserve blood flow and sensation whenever possible, though temporary changes in nipple sensitivity can occur during healing. The goal is always to create breasts that look natural, proportionate, and harmonious with your body while helping you feel more confident and comfortable.

Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery?

If you suffer from oversized breasts that interfere with daily life, breast reduction surgery may be what you need to get the body you wish for. Breast reduction is helpful for women who deal with constant worry or cannot lead a fulfilled and active life because of the weight of their breasts. If you also deal with ongoing skin rashes or irritations (as well as back pain), this surgery can greatly diminish these annoyances. Patients must be near their ideal body weight and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of this cosmetic procedure.

What Are the Benefits of Breast Reduction?

There are many reasons women choose to undergo breast reduction surgery with Forma Plastic Surgery in Scottsdale, AZ. Some of the most common benefits include:

Relief from pain: Overly large breasts can cause neck, back, and shoulder pain due to the added weight they place on the body. Breast reduction surgery can alleviate this discomfort and improve your overall quality of life.
Improved self-confidence: Many women with oversized breasts struggle with feelings of insecurity and embarrassment. By reducing their breast size, they feel more comfortable in their skin and have renewed confidence.

Better-proportioned body: Breast reduction surgery can help create a more balanced and proportionate figure, especially for women with smaller frames. This also makes it easier to find clothing that fits properly.
Increased physical activity: With smaller, lighter breasts, many women find it easier to engage in physical exercises that were previously uncomfortable or even impossible. This leads to improved health and a more active lifestyle.

Breastfeeding After Breast Reduction Surgery

While most women can breastfeed after breast reduction surgery, the ability to do so can vary based on the surgical technique and how much tissue is removed. Because the procedure can affect milk ducts and nerves involved in milk production, some patients may experience reduced supply. Whenever possible, our surgeons use methods that preserve key structures to support future breastfeeding. If breastfeeding is important to you, discussing this with your surgeon during the consultation helps guide the surgical plan.

How Much Does Breast Reduction Cost in Scottsdale, AZ?

The cost of breast reduction surgery in Scottsdale varies from $6,000 to $12,000. This will be discussed during your consultation. Once we have developed your personal treatment plan, we can calculate your expenses. Breast reduction surgery often significantly improves a patient’s quality of life, so it is very important to focus on finding a skilled, artful plastic surgeon, such as the ones we employ at Forma Plastic Surgery.

Our team will happily help you find low-interest financing to make your treatment affordable so that you can achieve the best possible outcomes.

Does insurance cover the procedure?

Does Insurance Cover The Procedure?

In some cases, your health insurance might pay part of the cost of breast reduction surgery if it’s considered medically necessary. If you want to use your insurance, tell our provider so we can help you with your claim. You should also talk to your provider to find out whether your specific policy might cover the surgery and what they need to approve it. Your insurance might need measurements like weight, height, body mass index (BMI), and body surface area.

Enhance Your Body Image and Comfort with Breast Reduction

Our team at Forma Plastic Surgery has helped so many women reclaim their health for a fuller life with surgical breast reduction. During your first visit to our Scottsdale, AZ office, we will review all options to help you achieve your aesthetic goals and develop a customized treatment plan that fits your needs. There is no reason to continue living with the discomfort or lack of confidence that can sometimes accompany large breasts.

We welcome you to call our office in Scottsdale, AZ, to understand more about our outstanding breast reduction surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my nipples be moved?

In most cases, the nipples and areola are shifted up to a higher position on the breast during the surgery, so they appear symmetrical with the new breast shape and size. If a significant amount of tissue and skin is being removed, your nipple-areola complex may need to be moved. We will choose a technique such as an anchor incision so the nipple and areola can move higher on the breast. It is also possible to reduce the size of the areola with an areolatome. Your options will be discussed during your consultation, and we will help you decide on the best plan to achieve your goals.

Can I breastfeed after a breast reduction?

Breast reduction surgery can affect your ability to breastfeed. Although most women can breastfeed after a surgical reduction, some cannot. It’s difficult to know whether your surgery will interfere with breastfeeding. For this reason, we suggest that patients no longer breastfeed before having breast reduction surgery.

Can my breasts regrow after surgery?

Following reduction surgery, your breasts may get bigger or smaller with significant weight changes. This is why it is better to be at a healthy, stable weight before your surgery. During your consultation, we will discuss the best ways to prepare for your reduction and what to do afterward to ensure you are happy with your results.

What can I expect from the breast reduction consultation process?

During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate symptoms such as neck pain, heavy breasts, physical discomfort, and any emotional distress you may be experiencing due to breast size. You’ll discuss your aesthetic goals, review your health status, and talk about any medications you’re taking, including blood-thinning medications. Your surgeon will also examine your breast anatomy and explain what is achievable so you can have realistic expectations moving forward. Together, you will create a personalized surgical plan to address your concerns and help you achieve your desired results.

Is breast reduction painful?

Like any surgical procedure, some discomfort is expected, but most patients describe it as manageable. The breasts may feel sore or tight as the healing process begins, especially if you previously struggled with pendulous breasts, excess skin, or pressure on the chest wall. Wearing a surgical bra helps reduce swelling and improve comfort. Your surgeon will provide guidance and medication options to ensure you recover as comfortably as possible.

What is the difference between a breast reduction and a breast lift?

A breast reduction focuses on removing excess glandular tissue and fat to address disproportionately large breasts, body pain, and problems such as skin irritation, poor posture, and bra strap grooving. A breast lift reshapes the breast by tightening loose skin and elevating the tissue, and may include areola reduction to improve contour. While a reduction often provides functional pain relief, a lift is primarily performed for aesthetic enhancement. Both procedures aim to improve overall shape, and our experienced surgeon will help you determine which option best aligns with your desired aesthetic outcome.

Why should I choose a board-certified plastic surgeon for breast enhancement?

Choosing a board-certified specialist ensures your surgeon has advanced training in plastic and reconstructive surgery, including procedures such as breast augmentation and breast reduction. To receive a high-quality breast reduction, Scottsdale residents should look for doctors with board certification and membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. A skilled surgeon understands how to work safely with the blood supply, tailor results to a woman’s body frame, and deliver optimal outcomes in both form and function.

Can I combine breast reduction with other procedures?

Yes, many individuals choose to combine breast reduction with other body contouring procedures, such as a tummy tuck. This approach can help address physical symptoms, improve proportions, and enhance overall shape. Because many patients also experience chronic pain or asymmetry, pairing procedures can create balanced results and even remove excess fat in targeted areas. Options such as fat grafting may also be used to fine-tune contours based on the patient’s unique figure and aesthetic preferences.

Related Procedures

Breast Lift
Breast Reconstruction
Gynecomastia Treatment

*Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person. Images may contain models.