Can I choose the cup size I want to have after surgery?

Sharing your goals with Dr. Ellis is an important part of the planning process. Together, you will evaluate your body’s proportions and frame and determine the general breast size you would like to have after surgery. Although Dr. Ellis will perform your procedure according to your goals, he cannot promise a specific or exact cup size.

Is breast reduction painful?

The surgery is performed with anesthesia, so you will not feel any pain during the procedure. Afterward, you may have some mild discomfort that is easily managed with prescription or over-the-counter medication.

How long will the results last?

The results of breast reduction are typically long-lasting. However, your breast size can fluctuate with weight gain or loss, hormonal changes, and pregnancy.

Does breast reduction leave scarring?

Breast reduction does leave scarring along the incision lines. Dr. Ellis can show you ahead of time exactly where your scars will be. With proper care, your scars should fade and improve in the six to 12 months following surgery, though they will never fully disappear. The good news is that all breast reduction scars can be easily hidden beneath a bra or bathing suit top.

Can I breastfeed after surgery?

If you hope to breastfeed after your surgery, Dr. Ellis will take this into account when designing your surgical plan. He will make every effort to preserve the milk ducts and milk glands to give you the best chance at breastfeeding in the future. However, there are no guarantees.

Can breast reduction change the size of my areolas?

Yes. Dr. Ellis can refine the size of oversized or stretched-out areolas if you desire.

Can I combine breast reduction with breast lift?

By nature, breast reduction surgery incorporates techniques to lift the breasts. After removing excess tissue, fat, and skin, Dr. Ellis tightens and lifts the remaining tissue higher on the chest wall for a perkier, more youthful breast shape.

How can I prepare for breast reduction surgery?

Focus on your overall health in the weeks leading up to your surgery. Stop using all tobacco products and avoid excessive amounts of alcohol. Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Reach out to Dr. Ellis and our team anytime with questions about the procedure or recovery.

What are the psychological benefits of breast reduction?

Many patients experience meaningful emotional benefits after breast reduction surgery. A more proportionate breast size can ease self-consciousness, improve body image, and boost overall self-esteem. Patients often feel more confident and at ease in social and professional settings. The physical relief from neck, back, and shoulder discomfort can also support better mental wellness, easing the anxiety and frustration that often accompany chronic physical limitations.s

Can breast reduction be customized?

Every patient’s body and goals are unique, which is why Dr. Ellis believes personalized care is essential. During your consultation, he works closely with you to understand your aesthetic and functional goals. Dr. Ellis tailors the surgical technique to match your body frame, desired breast size, and specific needs, ensuring results that are both beautiful and balanced. Techniques can range from focusing on fat, glandular tissue, or skin removal to adjusting the nipple and areola size and position for a harmonious outcome.

What other plastic surgery procedures is breast reduction frequently paired with?

Breast reduction is often paired with complementary procedures to enhance overall body contour and create a more balanced silhouette. Many patients combine breast reduction with a tummy tuck to recontour the midsection for a slimmer frame. Liposuction may also be performed on areas near the breasts, such as the underarms or back, to further refine the body’s shape. During your consultation, you and Dr. Ellis can discuss which complementary procedures may best enhance your results.

Is breast reduction revision ever necessary?

While breast reduction typically delivers long-lasting results, some patients may eventually want or need a revision. Reasons can include significant weight changes, hormonal shifts affecting breast size, or dissatisfaction with results from a previous surgeon. Dr. Ellis can perform revision surgery to address concerns, refine the aesthetic, or further reduce breast size as needed.

What are the risks associated with breast reduction surgery?

Like all surgeries, breast reduction carries some risks, including bleeding, infection, changes in nipple or breast sensation, and scarring. Dr. Ellis discusses all potential risks in detail during your consultation, along with the steps he takes to make your experience as safe and comfortable as possible.

Breast Reduction Surgery Chicago IL

Attractive African plus size woman in underwear radiating self-love on studio background

Breast reduction gives women with overly large, heavy breasts the opportunity to feel lighter, more comfortable, and more confident in their bodies. By thoughtfully reducing the size and weight of the breasts, the procedure eases the daily discomfort that often comes with a fuller chest.

If oversized breasts are holding you back from living an active, confident life, Dr. Marco Ellis can help. A trusted Chicago breast reduction surgeon, Dr. Ellis is known for his refined technique and compassionate approach. With his artistry and expertise, you can achieve a breast size that is beautifully proportioned to the rest of your body.

What Breast Reduction Can Improve

Breast reduction gently removes excess skin, fat, and tissue to bring the breasts into better proportion with the rest of the body. By reducing their size and weight, the procedure can ease or resolve many of the everyday challenges that come with overly large breasts. Many patients report relief from back, neck, and shoulder pain, along with improvements in breathing, posture, and chronic skin irritation.

Breast reduction can also open the door to a more active lifestyle. You can enjoy aerobic activities like running, biking, and swimming without large breasts getting in your way.

Just as importantly, breast reduction can be a wonderful boost to your self-confidence. You will enjoy a better body image and feel more at ease in your everyday life, without unwanted attention because of your breast appearance.

Surgical Details

Breast reduction is typically performed on an outpatient basis under anesthesia.

The incision options for breast reduction surgery include a circular incision around the edge of the areola (the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple); a keyhole-shaped incision around the areola and down to the breast crease; or an anchor-shaped incision around the areola, down to the breast crease and along the crease.

Through the incision, excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin are removed, and the remaining skin is lifted and shaped. In some cases, the nipple and areola may be repositioned higher on the breast. The areola can also be reduced in size if desired.

After surgery, the breasts will be wrapped in a supportive garment to provide gentle pressure on the healing tissues. It is common to experience some bruising, swelling, and mild discomfort that will resolve in the days following surgery.

Patients typically take one to two weeks off from work to recover and refrain from strenuous activities for three to six weeks. Dr. Ellis will see you regularly during your recovery to check your healing and clear you to resume exercise and the rest of your routine.

You will be able to see your improved breast shape almost immediately after surgery, with your results continuing to refine over the months that follow.

Breast Reduction Recovery

In the first days after surgery, it is normal to feel some soreness, swelling, and bruising as your body begins to heal. Dr. Ellis may place drains to help remove excess fluid and will provide a surgical bra that gently supports the breasts during recovery. Most patients are able to return to work and light activities within one to two weeks, though full healing may take a few months.

Comfort is a priority throughout your recovery, and Dr. Ellis will prescribe appropriate medications to ease any discomfort. Following all guidelines around activity, medications, and follow-up visits helps promote smooth healing and beautiful results. Dr. Ellis will let you know when it is safe to resume more strenuous activity like exercise. Walking is always encouraged and can even support better circulation for a quicker recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Reduction

Although there is no age minimum for breast reduction, Dr. Ellis generally recommends waiting until your breasts have fully developed. Reducing breasts that are still growing can lead to unpredictable results. If your breasts continue to grow after surgery, you may require a second procedure later in life.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Ellis

If you are considering breast reduction to enhance your comfort and confidence, Dr. Ellis would love to meet with you. Please call (312) 695-6022 or our practice to schedule your consultation.

Breast Reduction Surgery in Chicago, IL