Breast Reduction — Stubbs Center
Surgical · Breast

Breast
Reduction

Alleviate the pain and discomfort of large breasts by removing excess tissue, fat, and skin — resulting in breasts that are more proportionate to your body and an improved quality of life. Plan on 1 to 2 weeks of downtime.

1–2 wks
Downtime
Insurance
May be covered
Triple Board
Certified surgeon
Overview

What is a breast reduction?

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure that aims to alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with large breasts by removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin. If you know you would enjoy life more with smaller, lighter breasts, a breast reduction can give you the freedom to exercise comfortably, wear the clothing you like, and participate in activities without worrying about how your breasts look or feel.

Also known asReduction mammoplasty
Performed byDr. Jason Stubbs, board-certified cosmetic surgeon
GoalRemove excess breast tissue, fat, and skin for a more proportionate, comfortable result
Downtime1 to 2 weeks; most patients return to desk work within the first week

Breast reduction surgery offers a range of meaningful improvements — both physical and emotional. Dr. Stubbs will help you determine whether you are a good candidate during your consultation.

1
Pain reliefReduces chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain caused by the weight of large breasts
2
Improved postureEases strain on the spine and shoulders that develops over time from carrying excess breast weight
3
Enhanced physical activityFacilitates easier movement and greater comfort when participating in sports and exercise
4
Better clothing fitOpens up a wider range of clothing options that fit and flatter more naturally
5
Increased confidenceCan meaningfully boost self-esteem, body image, and overall quality of life
6
More proportionate appearanceReveals breasts that are better balanced with your overall body size and frame

During a breast reduction, Dr. Stubbs removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin, then reshapes and lifts the remaining tissue. The nipple and areola are repositioned to a natural, higher placement on the breast mound.

How it's performed

Incisions are made to remove excess tissue and skin. The pattern of incisions depends on the amount of reduction needed and your anatomy. Common approaches include incisions around the areola, vertically down the breast, and along the breast crease.

The breast tissue is then reshaped and the nipple and areola complex are repositioned. The result is smaller, lighter breasts that sit in a more youthful position on the chest.

Consultation & planning

During your consultation, Dr. Stubbs will review your goals and medical history and discuss realistic expectations for your outcome.

It is important to be in good overall health before surgery. Let Dr. Stubbs know about any medications you are taking, as some may need to be paused prior to your procedure.

Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how manageable recovery is. Medications will be prescribed for antibiotics and pain control, though most patients find over-the-counter pain medications are sufficient for comfort.

~1 week

Most patients return to daily activities and desk work within the first week

1–2 wks

Plan for 1–2 weeks of downtime; avoid strenuous activities during this period

Weeks

Gradually return to normal activities and exercise as recommended by Dr. Stubbs

Up to 1 yr

Scars continue to fade and mature for up to one year; medical grade scar therapy is available

Unlike most cosmetic procedures, breast reduction surgery may qualify for insurance coverage in cases where it is deemed medically necessary. Our team will help you navigate the process.

Insurance coverage

In some cases, breast reduction surgery may be covered by certain insurance companies. Our office will work directly with your insurance company to determine the full scope of your benefits.

Coverage typically requires documented evidence of medical necessity — such as chronic pain, postural problems, or skin conditions — along with conservative treatments that have been tried without sufficient relief.

If insurance does not apply, the surgery would be considered cosmetic. Our team can discuss financing options with you during your consultation.

1
We handle the processOur office works with your insurance company on your behalf to determine your coverage
2
Medical necessityCoverage is possible when chronic pain or other documented symptoms meet your insurer's criteria
3
Financing availableIf insurance does not apply, cosmetic financing options are available to help make surgery accessible

Common questions about breast reduction surgery, recovery, insurance, and what to expect from your results.

Yes — this is one of the most common and compelling reasons patients pursue a breast reduction. Removing excess breast weight directly reduces the chronic strain placed on the back, neck, and shoulders. Many patients report significant pain relief and improved posture following surgery.
In some cases, yes. Breast reduction may be covered by certain insurance plans when it is considered medically necessary. Our office will work with your insurance company to determine the scope of your benefits. If coverage does not apply, the procedure would be considered cosmetic and financing options are available.
Plan for 1 to 2 weeks of downtime. Most patients with desk jobs are back to work within the first week. You should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity during initial recovery and gradually return to exercise as recommended by Dr. Stubbs.
Scarring depends on the technique used and the amount of tissue removed. Incisions are typically placed around the areola, vertically down the breast, and along the breast crease. Scars are initially pink and slightly raised, but they fade and flatten over several months. Full scar maturation can take up to a year or longer, and medical grade scar therapy is available to support the process.
Medications will be prescribed for both antibiotics and pain control. However, for most patients, over-the-counter pain medications are sufficient to manage post-operative discomfort. You will also be advised to wear a supportive bra to minimize swelling and support the breasts during healing.
Take the next step

Ready to see what's possible?

Call us at (479) 485-3600 to schedule an appointment, or you can request a consultation online.

Book a consultation (479) 485-3600

STUBBS CENTER FOR COSMETIC SURGERY

STUBBS CENTER FOR COSMETIC SURGERY

Breast Reduction Gallery

Before and after photos showing a woman's chest, with visible scars indicating cosmetic surgery. The top images are before surgery, and the bottom images are after, with the woman’s breasts appearing smaller and more sculpted.
Comparison of a woman's breasts before and after cosmetic surgery, showing the results of breast reduction surgery with scars and smaller size in the after image.
Comparison of a woman's before and after results of breast augmentation surgery, showing front and side views with visible scars post-surgery.
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See Full Gallery