Procedure Overview

Breast reduction (mammoplasty) is a life-changing procedure for so many people. When overly large breasts are causing pain and irritation and stopping you from doing your favorite activities, breast reduction can completely transform how you live your life. Our skilled providers have years of experience to give you the relief and results you deserve.

Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Reduction?

The reasons patients come in for breast reduction surgery are as different as the patients themselves. Some of the criteria we look for when determining whether someone is a good candidate for breast reduction surgery include the following:

  • Good general health
  • Non-smokers
  • Realistic expectations of the results
  • Back, neck, or shoulder pain due to breast size
  • Shoulder indentations from bra straps
  • Skin irritation in the breast crease
  • Struggling with physical activity due to breast size

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natural looking results

see what you COULD look like

One of the hardest parts of getting cosmetic surgery is knowing what you’ll look like after the procedure is done. Our providers can describe the procedure and the results perfectly, but being unable to see it can make some patients apprehensive. With the Crisalix 3D Imaging software, you can actually see a visualization of your “after” pictures.

At Iowa Breast Reduction, we are proud to offer the Crisalix 3D imaging technology. This game-changing tool allows you to see your “after” before you ever schedule your procedure.

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Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery begins with the administration of general anesthesia to ensure your complete comfort through the procedure. But unlike the typical anesthesia you might be familiar with, we use a pectoralis block called Exparel. From there, your provider will make the incisions to one or both breasts. The type of incisions used depends on your needs. The options include a lollipop incision or a keyhole incision.

Once the incisions are made, your provider will remove excess breast tissue and skin. Fat may also be removed using liposuction. If necessary, your surgeon will also place your nipple/areola complex in a more appropriate position. How much breast tissue is removed will depend on your ultimate goals. Breast reductions often achieve whole cup sizes, bringing very large breasts to a much more manageable proportion.

Once everything is removed and reshaped, the incisions are closed with sutures. Drains may be placed to allow any fluid buildup to escape. The procedure typically takes about 2-3 hours.

Recovery

Once your breast reduction surgery is over, you’ll be sent to the recovery room to wake up and start the recovery process. After you’re awake, you can go home the same day. You will need a friend or family member to drive you home. Before you leave, we’ll provide you with a surgical bra to help reduce swelling and bruising. We will also give you aftercare instructions for how best to care for yourself. Additionally, to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the healing process, your surgeon will prescribe pain medication.

Once you return home, you’ll want to take two to three weeks off work and possibly more if you have a labor-intensive job. During this time, you’ll want to limit your level of activity and continue to wear your compression bra. Your surgeon will tell you exactly when you can return to work and get back into your normal exercise routine during your follow-up appointments.

While you will likely notice some initial results right after surgery, the most significant results typically show up in the weeks and months as the swelling goes down. Final results appear approximately three to six months after surgery.

Schedule A Consultation

Are you tired of struggling with overly large breasts and ready to finally say goodbye to pain and discomfort? A breast reduction allows you to take back your life, enjoy activities you love, and wear clothes you’ve always wanted. Take the first step today and schedule a consultation. We personalize each patient’s experience and tailor your procedure to ensure you receive the beautiful results you’re looking for. To meet with Iowa’s best plastic surgeon for breast reduction, call our Coralville, IA office or fill out our contact form.

board-certified plastic surgeon

Meet our Providers

Our team lives and breathes plastic surgery. With years of specialized experience, our surgeons, nurses, and support staff are devoted to excellence. They will provide you with an unparalleled level of care and expertise to ensure you receive the outstanding results you’re looking for.

MEET OUR PROVIDERS

Testimonials

Upon my first visit, Dr. Andrews was warm and welcoming and has sooooo much knowledge, he truly cares about his patients. Emma and Stormy are amazing for all the questions and post-surgery care. And who can forget the right-hand man Mr. Marcus, always a friendly face and smile to make your day just a little better. Thank you all for your amazing commitment to patient care. I would recommend anyone seeking a breast reduction to see Dr. Andrews.

Dr. Andrews’ team is one of a kind. They are all extremely sweet and happy to answer any questions or concerns. Emma is a very personable nurse who helped make all of my experiences comforting. As a college student, I greatly appreciated Dr. Andrews asking to call my mom to inform her about the results of my appointment. Not many doctors take that time for those conversations, but I greatly admired his advocacy and professionalism. Highly recommend!

The entire staff is friendly and caring. Dr. Andrews and the nurses continue to provide top-notch post-surgery care, addressing any questions and concerns fully and compassionately. Overall, a good experience.

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