Breast Reduction
Removes breast tissue, fat and skin to reduce size and reshape the breast. For most patients this is as much about comfort as appearance. A mammogram is required before this procedure.
Who is a good candidate for breast reduction?
Neck, shoulder and back pain; grooving from bra straps; rashes under the breast; difficulty with exercise; breasts out of proportion with your frame.
What happens during breast reduction?
Size reduction and lift happen together — the nipple is repositioned as tissue is removed. Nipple sensation usually returns but can change permanently. Breastfeeding after reduction is possible for some patients but cannot be guaranteed.
How long is recovery after breast reduction?
One to two weeks off work. Supportive bra for six weeks, no upper-body training for six. Most patients notice the physical relief within days.
Breast reduction is sometimes covered by insurance when symptoms are documented. We will tell you honestly whether your case is likely to qualify.
What a breast reduction quote includes
- The surgeon's fee — the operation itself
- The facility fee — the operating room and the staff who run it on the day
- Anesthesia — administered and monitored by the anesthesia provider
- Surgical supplies — the sterile instruments, dressings and materials used on the day
- Routine post-operative visits — your follow-up appointments after surgery are included
You'll receive an individualized, itemized quote at your consultation. If a quote elsewhere is much lower, ask which of these five parts it leaves out.
Consultations are unhurried, with time for questions. Surgery, consultations, sizing and follow-up all happen at our
Rancho Bernardo office, which has an operating room on site.
Surgery can also be performed at the
Carlsbad Surgery Center, where Dr. Vande Ven holds
operating privileges.
Frequently asked questions
Is breast reduction ever covered by insurance?+
Sometimes. Insurers can cover reduction when it's medically necessary — typically documented symptoms like neck, back or shoulder pain, with criteria that vary by insurer and often include how much tissue would be removed. None of this is a promise of coverage. Dr. Vande Ven does not take insurance cases, so reduction at this practice is self-pay.
Will a lift or reduction affect nipple sensation or breastfeeding?+
Both are real risks of these procedures. Changes in nipple sensation are usually temporary but can be permanent, and breastfeeding after a lift or reduction can't be guaranteed — technique matters, so raise it before surgery if it matters to you.
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