Breast Reduction
in Seattle, WA
Large breasts can cause tremendous discomfort and an array of issues, from pain, shoulder grooving, and chafing to self-consciousness and exercise limitations. Breast reduction surgery removes excess fat, skin, and breast tissue to create a more youthful, shapely, and proportionate bustline.
Get In TouchTable of Contents
- See Results From Actual Patients: Breast Reduction Before & After Pictures
- What Our Patients Have to Say: Breast Reduction Testimonials
- Breast Reduction Cost in Seattle
- Why Choose Dr. Alexander Gougoutas for Your Breast Reduction in Seattle?
- What Is Breast Reduction?
- Benefits of a Breast Reduction
- Am I a Good Candidate for a Breast Reduction?
- How Is Breast Reduction Surgery Performed?
- What Other Surgeries May Enhance the Results of My Breast Reduction?
- How to Prepare for a Breast Reduction
- Breast Reduction Recovery & Aftercare
- What Results Can I Expect From a Breast Reduction?
- Breast Reduction FAQs
See Results From Actual Patients: Breast Reduction Before & After Pictures
This 41 year-old patient from Redmond, WA had a bilateral breast reduction / lift as part of a mommy makeover (240 gram right breast reduction and 251 gram left breast reduction). Post-operative photos taken at ~ 3 months.
What Our Patients Have to Say: Breast Reduction Testimonials
“I had a consultation with Dr. Gougoutas to learn more about breast reduction surgery. I was very apprehensive about the process and was planning on doing a few consultations with other surgeons; however, after meeting Dr. Gougoutas that all changed. He performed my breast reduction surgery a few weeks later and I’m so glad I went with him. He had great bedtime manner, reassured all my concerns and overall did a great job. Highly recommend.”
“I cannot say enough good things about my experience with this practice and with Dr. Gougoutas. From my very first consultation through recovery, I felt genuinely cared for and supported every step of the way.”
“I had the pleasure of having a breast reduction by Dr. Gougoutas and I can’t recommend him more. His thorough approach to his consultation made me feel confident that I was in the best hands. Dr. Gougoutas is truly an amazing surgeon-his expertise and attention to detail are evident in the great results I received. If you are looking for a surgeon who is highly skilled Dr. Gougoutas is the one to trust. His combination of professionalism and genuine kindness makes all the difference in such a personal journey.”
Breast Reduction Cost in Seattle
The cost of breast reduction in Seattle varies depending on factors such as surgeon’s experience, chosen technique, anesthesia fees, and other variables.
Dr. Gougoutas uses advanced breast surgery techniques to tailor every breast reduction to each individual patient. The estimated price range for a breast reduction at Puget Plastic Surgery lies between $14,200 and $18,500, without insurance. Prices vary if insurance is used, as well as depending on individual needs. Detailed cost estimates are provided during your private consultation.
Why Choose Dr. Alexander Gougoutas for Your Breast Reduction in Seattle?
Dr. Alexander Gougoutas is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with extensive training in aesthetic and reconstructive breast surgery.
His background in breast reconstruction and advanced microsurgery training has equipped him with a specialized understanding of restoring the breast form. This sets him apart when it comes to cosmetic and functional breast reduction surgery, where breast shape and proportion are restored with artful care. Dr. Gougoutas uses advanced techniques, such as the use of absorbable internal mesh, when appropriate.
Dr. Gougoutas emphasizes a patient-centered approach and understands the importance of clear, transparent communication, patient education, and long-term follow-up care. It’s his mission to provide the best possible service so patients can feel confident in their results and cared for throughout their entire surgical journey.
Book Your Breast Reduction Consultation Today
You deserve to feel comfortable in your skin. Discover the power of balance with breast reduction. Call us today at (206) 320-6138 or complete our online contact form to schedule a consultation with Dr. Alexander Gougoutas.
What Is Breast Reduction?
A breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) is primarily a functional procedure, though clearly one with aesthetic benefits. It is designed to treat typical symptoms associated with large breasts (such as neck and back pain, skin irritation, and discomfort during physical activity) while improving breast shape. This is typically accomplished by removing excess skin, breast, and subcutaneous tissue while lifting and reducing the diameter of the nipple-areola complex.
Breast reduction surgery is often confused with breast lift surgery (mastopexy). One key difference between these operations is that a breast reduction almost always includes a mastopexy, but a mastopexy does not always include a reduction. If you feel like your breasts are too big even when supported in a bra, then a breast reduction is likely the right operation for you.
Benefits of a Breast Reduction
Some of the potential benefits of a breast reduction include:
- Improved proportions
- A lifted, firmer, more shapely breast contour
- Relief from chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain
- Improved posture and correction of slouching caused by breast weight
- Reduced nerve issues, including numbness and tingling in the upper extremities
- Better hygiene, minimized skin inflammation, rashes, and infections under the breasts
- Exercise and physical activity are more comfortable
- Better fit in clothing, swimsuits, and bras
- Increased confidence
Am I a Good Candidate for a Breast Reduction?
Ideal breast reduction candidates are close to their ideal weight and often demonstrate:
- Large breasts that are out of proportion to the rest of their body
- Chronic pain in the shoulder, neck, and/or back
- Chronic irritation or a history of infections within the breast folds
- Shoulder strap grooving
- Difficulty finding bras or clothing that fit
- Limitations in physical activity
- Self-consciousness about the size of their breasts
Candidates should be in good health, non-smokers (or willing to quit), and realistic about what surgery can achieve. Ideally, candidates should have finished breastfeeding for 8 to 12 months before surgery.
To determine if you’re a good candidate for breast reduction surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Gougoutas today by calling (206) 320-6138.
How Is Breast Reduction Surgery Performed?
Breast reduction surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, under general anesthesia or deep sedation—always overseen by an anesthesiologist.
In very rare instances, breast reduction may be performed with liposuction if excess breast size is primarily caused by fatty tissue. Most likely, though, one of the following incision techniques will be most effective:
- Vertical (lollipop) incisions: An incision around the areola plus a vertical incision down to the breast fold; best for a moderate reduction in breast size.
- Anchor (inverted-T) incisions: Three incisions are placed around the areola, vertically down, and along the breast fold; this allows for maximum tissue removal and reshaping.
What Is an Internal Brassiere?
If appropriate, Dr. Gougoutas may recommend the use of an absorbable mesh to provide internal support and improve the durability of your breast reduction. This mesh gradually dissolves over about three months, leaving behind a thin, strong layer of tissue that functions as an “internal bra.”
What Other Surgeries May Enhance the Results of My Breast Reduction?
A breast reduction is primarily a functional operation, meaning most of its benefits come from dramatically improving one’s quality of life. There are, however, aesthetic considerations that must be taken into account to achieve the best possible results. The two most common procedures performed at the time of a breast reduction are a lateral axillary lift or liposuction of the “tank top bulge” and bra roll.
With a lateral axillary lift, the breast reduction incisions are extended to tighten up the loose tissues along the side of the breasts into the armpit. You can see examples of ancillary breast procedure results in our before and after gallery. These procedures are never covered by insurance, but can be added on a self-pay basis to any breast reduction procedure.
Patients may also choose to undergo additional self-pay procedures at the time of a breast reduction to limit anesthesia time and/or surgical procedures. If you have any questions regarding the feasibility of combining procedures, Dr. Gougoutas will address these with you during your consultation.
How to Prepare for a Breast Reduction
Dr. Gougoutas will provide you with thorough instructions before your procedure, but the following guidelines are useful to keep in mind when preparing for your breast reduction:
- Stop smoking, vaping, and using nicotine products. Nicotine impairs healing and can cause complications such as tissue necrosis.
- Avoid alcohol and certain medications. Blood thinners and anti-inflammatory drugs are commonly paused prior to surgery for your safety.
- Arrange for support. A friend, family member, or professional caregiver should be able to drive you to and from surgery and assist you in the first few days with tasks such as meal preparation, medication reminders, and light household tasks.
- Set up a comfortable and accessible recovery area. Make sure it’s stocked with pillows, snacks, water, entertainment, and easy-to-reach items.
- Follow all pre-operative instructions, including fasting, lab work, and any other individualized directions provided by Dr. Gougoutas.
Breast Reduction Recovery & Aftercare
You will emerge from surgery with your chest wrapped in bandages and a surgical bra or support garment. You’ll be monitored in a recovery room until it’s time to be discharged and driven home. You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions, including incision care, medication instructions, and activity restrictions. For best results and to avoid complications, follow these carefully and attend all follow-up appointments.
Bruising, swelling, and soreness are expected to peak in the first few days and gradually improve thereafter. Rest is critical for optimal healing, although gentle walking is encouraged to promote circulation and prevent blood clots. It’s important to wear your surgical bra or support garment to support your breasts as they heal and tissues settle.
Most patients feel ready to drive and return to work at a desk job after about two weeks. You’ll need to continue to follow activity restrictions for at least six to eight weeks, or until cleared by Dr. Gougoutas. These restrictions include raising your arms above your shoulders, rigorous exercise, and strenuous activity.
For a general guide to activity restrictions and what to expect in the first several weeks after surgery, please see our breast reduction aftercare instructions.
What Results Can I Expect From a Breast Reduction?
Initial results are often obscured by swelling, although your breasts will most likely be noticeably smaller right away. Swelling, soreness, tingling, and asymmetrical healing are common after breast reduction and will gradually resolve over three to six months.
You can expect an early glimpse of your final results after about one to two months, at which time many patients like to shop for new bras. You may, however, continue to notice subtle changes for 6 to 12 months after surgery.
Breast reduction patients enjoy smaller, lighter breasts for a long time, if not a lifetime. However, the breasts can still undergo changes, especially in the case of future pregnancies or weight fluctuations. Aging will also likely cause the breasts to sag, although they’ll always benefit from having had surgery. To preserve your results, maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle, and ideally plan your breast reduction after you are finished with pregnancies.
How do I know if a breast reduction will be covered by my insurance?
Insurance companies have strict requirements when determining if a breast reduction is medically necessary. Though it varies between insurance companies, most require documentation of both long-standing complications of large breasts and failure of conservative, non-surgical interventions (such as physical therapy, massage therapy, chiropractic interventions, over-the-counter pain medications, etc.). Additionally, insurance companies typically require a minimum amount of weight be removed from each breast that is proportional to your height and weight. At the time of your consultation, Dr. Gougoutas will review these requirements with you to determine if your breast reduction is medically necessary.
Can I breastfeed after a breast reduction?
Maybe. While many women are able to breastfeed after a reduction, some are not able to do so. Whatever your baseline breastfeeding potential is, it can be reduced after undergoing a breast reduction. If breastfeeding is important to you, it is recommended to wait until you are done breastfeeding before pursuing a reduction.
How long after I’m done breastfeeding should I wait before getting a breast reduction or lift?
Changes in breast tissue may persist for up to a year after breastfeeding. In general, it is recommended that you wait at least 8–12 months after completion of breastfeeding to pursue a reduction.
I’ve had a breast reduction in the past and think I need another one. Is this possible?
Yes, a second breast reduction is possible. However, a second breast reduction carries increased risks compared to a primary breast reduction, and, in general, less tissue can be removed during a second breast reduction. Insurance is also less likely to cover a breast reduction if one has been performed previously.
Do I need a mammogram before my breast reduction?
If you are 40 years or older or otherwise have a strong family history of breast cancer, a mammogram will be required before pursuing your reduction. Regularly scheduled mammograms will also be required following your breast reduction.
Will I have surgical drains after my breast reduction?
Surgical drains are not routinely used in breast reduction surgery. If liposuction is performed at the time of your breast reduction, however, then one surgical drain will be placed in each breast. Drains will remain in place for three to five days following surgery and will be removed in the clinic.
Where are breast reduction scars located?
Most commonly, the scars for a breast reduction are seen around the nipple, below the nipple to the breast fold, and within the breast fold—like an “anchor” when viewed from the front.
Book Your Breast Reduction Consultation Today
If you’re ready to feel lighter and experience the comfort and confidence of smaller breasts, the first step is choosing a highly skilled breast surgeon. Dr. Alexander Gougoutas is a board-certified plastic surgeon with a background in breast reconstruction and years of experience helping patients achieve beautiful breast reduction results.
To schedule your breast reduction consultation, call (206) 320-6138 or complete our online contact form today.