What Is Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction reduces breast size by removing excess tissue and skin. Almost every breast reduction is also a breast lift, meaning that the breast and nipple are lifted higher on the chest so that they are not resting on your upper abdomen. Instead, they are placed in a more youthful position, and the areola size is reduced to match the new, smaller breast size.

Breast Reduction
Before & After Photos

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Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Reduction?

You may be an ideal candidate for breast reduction by Dr. Rodriguez if you:

  • Have deep bra strap grooves on your shoulders from the weight of your breasts
  • Have neck or back pain from large breasts
  • Suffer from skin irritation and rashes under the breasts
  • Cannot find clothes or bras that fit
  • Are unable to exercise comfortably due to large breasts
  • Have realistic expectations for this procedure
  • Are a non-smoker and do not use any nicotine
  • Have reasonable control of all health conditions
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How Breast Reduction Surgery Is Performed

Breast reduction is a breast surgery done under general anesthesia and is an outpatient procedure, meaning you will go home the same day.

For the size to be reduced and the position of the breast to be lifted, incisions are made in one of the following ways:

Vertical Pattern

This technique involves a scar around the edge of the areola and from the lower part of the areola down to the breast crease. This is commonly referred to as a “lollipop” incision and is frequently used by Dr. Rodriguez.

Wise Pattern

This type of incision leaves the same scar as a vertical pattern, with an additional scar along the crease under the breast. This is also commonly called an “anchor” scar.

Through these incisions, extra breast tissue is strategically removed. The amount of excised tissue depends on your goals and bra size preference.

Throughout the procedure, the nipple remains attached to the breast tissue beneath it, and both the nipple and the breast tissue are lifted higher on the chest. Finally, all the incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches, and a bra is placed around your chest.

Dr. Rodriguez

Why Choose Dr. Rodriguez?

Dr. Abigail Rodriguez blends advanced surgical expertise with refined artistry to create results that look natural, balanced, and enduring. Known for her compassion, transparency, and commitment to patient education and safety, she provides individualized care supported by a state-of-the-art facility, enhanced recovery protocols, and comprehensive follow-up—all designed to ensure you feel cared for, confident, and understood throughout your transformation.

Widely regarded as a top board-certified plastic surgeon in Houston and beyond, Dr. Rodriguez's excellence has been recognized by Newsweek as one of America's Best Plastic Surgeons and by Texas Super Doctors multiple times. She is trusted for her meticulous precision and genuine dedication to helping patients look and feel their most authentic and confident.

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Breast Reduction Recovery Process

This surgery takes 3-4 hours in most cases and is an outpatient procedure. You can switch to a supportive, soft sports bra at your first follow-up appointment. You should not wear an underwire bra until cleared by Dr. Rodriguez. Most patients can return to work after 2 weeks of recovery and resume exercise 6 weeks post-op.

Scars are inevitable in breast reduction surgery, but Dr. Rodriguez strives to make them as minimally noticeable as possible. In addition, scar therapy with a silicone product, such as silicone sheets, is recommended to improve the appearance of scars. 

Women who have breast reduction surgery with Dr. Rodriguez almost always say the scars are “worth it” and often state that they wish they had had this surgery sooner in life!

A Reputation Built on Results

Had a little surgery on my ear to stitch up a tear. Dr Rodriguez and her staff made me feel so relaxed...
Janet James
Awesome experience !! Just like I read all those reviews dr Abigail makes you feel so comfortable and...
Romina Lopez
I had an amazing experience during my consultation with Dr. Abigail Rodriguez and her patient care coordinator,...
Britney Alexander
Tuve la bendición de ponerme en manos de la Dra. Abigail Rodríguez para mi abdominoplastia y liposucción,...
Any Ramirez

Breast Reduction Benefits

  • Increases overall comfort
  • Reduces pain in the back, neck, and shoulders
  • Makes exercise and movement easier
  • Improves posture
  • Boosts confidence
  • Makes clothes fit better
  • Prevents skin irritation under breasts
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Flexible Financing For Every Budget

Paying for your procedure shouldn't stand in the way of feeling confident and comfortable in your skin. We offer flexible financing options, including CareCredit® and PatientFi®, to help make your treatment more manageable and accessible.

Our team will guide you through your options and support you during every step of your transformation.

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Breast Reduction FAQs

Is breast reduction painful?

Some discomfort and soreness are to be expected after surgery, but pain is manageable with prescribed medication. Most patients report that the long-term relief from prior symptoms outweighs any temporary discomfort.

How much tissue will be removed?

The amount of breast tissue removed depends on your goals and body proportions. Dr. Rodriguez will work closely with you to determine the right size for your desired outcome.

Do I need to maintain a stable weight before surgery?

It is recommended to be at a stable weight before undergoing breast reduction surgery. Significant weight fluctuations after surgery can impact the results.

Can men undergo breast reduction surgery?

Yes, men with excess breast tissue (a condition called gynecomastia) can benefit from breast reduction surgery. This is a separate technique tailored to their specific needs.

Can breast reduction surgery correct asymmetrical breasts?

Yes, breast reduction surgery can address asymmetry by removing different amounts of tissue from each breast. The goal is to create a balanced and proportionate appearance.

Dr. Rodriguez | Abigail Rodriguez M.D. Plastic Surgery

Premier Aesthetic Refinement

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Abigail Rodriguez in Houston, at either our Post Oak or Memorial City location, for high-quality, personalized aesthetic enhancements. We are easily accessible to patients from Katy, The Woodlands, and the entire Greater Houston area.

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