Dr. Frank Lalezar provides personalized aftercare instructions to help you navigate every stage of your breast reduction recovery. From your first post-op day to your final follow-up, you’ll have ongoing support and direct access to Dr. Lalezar and his team. Below, you’ll find a detailed overview of what to expect after surgery, along with tips to help you prepare.
Breast Reduction Procedure (What to Expect)
Before breast reduction
Your breast reduction begins with a private consultation, during which Dr. Lalezar takes the time to understand your concerns, medical history, and goals for surgery. This is your opportunity to discuss symptoms like back or shoulder pain, bra strap grooving, or lifestyle limitations caused by breast size. You’ll also review your expectations, body proportions, and desired breast size.
During this consultation, Dr. Lalezar will conduct a comprehensive physical examination, taking precise measurements and assessing the size, shape, and symmetry of your breasts. He will evaluate your skin quality and nipple position to determine the most effective surgical technique. If needed, you’ll be recommended to undergo a mammogram prior to surgery.
You’ll also receive detailed preoperative instructions, including which medications to avoid, how to prepare your home for recovery, and guidelines around smoking or alcohol use.
During breast reduction
On the day of your surgery, you’ll be placed under general anesthesia for your comfort and safety. The procedure typically lasts 2 to 4 hours, depending on the extent of tissue removal. Dr. Lalezar uses carefully planned incisions to remove excess breast tissue, fat, and skin while preserving the aesthetics of your breasts. The two most common techniques include:
• Anchor-shaped incision: Ideal for more substantial reductions, this pattern involves incisions around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the fold.
• Lollipop incision: Suitable for moderate breast reductions, this technique involves a circular incision around the areola and a vertical incision down to the breast crease.
Dr. Lalezar reshapes the remaining breast mound to create a more balanced, lifted contour. He also repositions the nipple and areola to a more youthful height. Surgical drains may be placed to prevent fluid accumulation. Once complete, your incisions are closed, and your breasts are dressed with sterile bandages and a supportive surgical bra.
After breast reduction
Immediately following surgery, you’ll rest in a recovery area under close supervision. Most patients return home the same day, though you’ll need someone to drive you and stay with you for the first 24 to 48 hours.
The first week of recovery typically involves mild to moderate swelling, bruising, and soreness. Dr. Lalezar will prescribe pain medications to help manage any discomfort. You’ll need to avoid lifting, bending, or strenuous movement, and it’s important to wear your support bra to reduce swelling and support healing. Within a few days, you’ll return for your post-operative visit to remove any surgical drains and stitches and check your healing progress.
Over the next 6 to 8 weeks, swelling will gradually subside, and your breasts will settle into their new shape. Most patients return to light activity or work within 10 to 14 days, while full physical activity, including exercise, can resume after 4 to 6 weeks. The scars will initially appear pink but will fade significantly with time and proper scar care.
Schedule your consultation
Dr. Frank Lalezar is a board-certified plastic surgeon known for his meticulous surgical techniques and compassionate, patient-centered approach. With extensive experience in breast procedures, he takes the time to understand your concerns and customizes every surgical plan to suit your body and goals. Whether you seek relief from physical discomfort or want to restore proportions, Dr. Lalezar delivers natural, balanced results. Schedule your personalized consultation for breast reduction at Madison Avenue in New York City.
