Breast Reduction

Living with overly large breasts can create both physical discomfort and emotional distress. The weight of excess breast tissue often leads to chronic pain, posture problems, and even skin irritation that affects your daily life. At Texas Liposuction Specialty Clinic in Houston, we understand these challenges and offer breast reduction surgery (reduction mammaplasty) as a transformative solution to help you achieve a more comfortable, proportionate figure.

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Eric Payne has helped countless women find relief from oversized breasts. He combines technical precision with an artistic eye, ensuring both the physical relief you need and the beautiful, natural-looking results you desire. Our patients consistently report not just significant physical improvement, but also enhanced self-confidence, expanded wardrobe options and the freedom to engage in activities they once avoided.

Whether your breasts have been a lifelong burden or changed after pregnancy and weight fluctuations, we’re committed to helping you rediscover comfort and confidence in your body.

What Is Breast Reduction?

Enlarged breasts can occur for a number of reasons, including genetics and hormonal changes. Some women may also develop gigantomastia, a rare condition that causes the breasts to grow excessively large. Gigantomastia often appears during puberty, but it can be triggered by pregnancy, certain medications and autoimmune disorders like lupus. The most common type of gigantomastia is idiopathic, meaning it happens spontaneously with no obvious cause.

A breast reduction, or reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to decrease the size of the breasts by removing excess fat, skin and glandular tissue. When the breasts are too large and heavy, their weight can cause a number of problems that interfere with a woman’s comfort and quality of life, including chronic neck and shoulder pain, back pain, poor posture and skin irritation or rashes. Overly large breasts can also cause embarrassment and interfere with certain activities, making it difficult to exercise properly or wear certain clothing styles.

A breast reduction can eliminate these symptoms while improving the overall appearance of the breasts, making them smaller, lighter and more proportionate to the patient’s body frame. Breast reduction has one of the highest satisfaction rates of all plastic surgery procedures, with many women reporting feeling more confident and comfortable after surgery, able to wear clothing that matches their personal style and participate in physical activities like running with more ease.

Ideal Candidates for Breast Reduction Surgery

There is no age limit for reduction mammaplasty, although the sooner you undergo surgery, the longer you’ll be able to enjoy a more comfortable, vibrant life that isn’t dictated by your breast size. If you experience pain, discomfort or embarrassment due to your breast size, breast reduction may be right for you. Ideal candidates for this procedure include those who:

• Are in good overall health and at a stable weight
• Have fully developed breasts that are no longer growing
• Are not currently pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have realistic goals and expectations

Frequently, we see some very young women with enlarged breasts that develop during puberty, which is known as juvenile breast hypertrophy. This condition can be categorized based on severity: macromastia (excessive breast tissue is less than 5 lbs) and gigantomastia (excessive breast tissue is greater than 5 lbs). In these cases, the breast tissue continues to grow, and it is best to wait until breast size has stabilized for six to 12 months before surgery.

During your initial consultation with Dr. Payne, he will thoroughly evaluate your needs, concerns and goals to confirm that breast reduction surgery is right for you. He can also help determine if your procedure would be considered “medically necessary” and outline the steps you may need to take — such as documentation of certain symptoms — to qualify for insurance coverage.

Breast Reduction Techniques

Anchor Incision

One of the most common breast reduction techniques uses the anchor incision, also called the inverted-T technique. This approach involves three incisions to access the underlying breast tissue: one around the areola, one along the breast crease, and a vertical incision that connects these two. The final look of this incision pattern resembles an anchor, hence the name.

The anchor incision provides better access for removing a significant amount of excess skin, fat and breast tissue. It also allows your surgeon to reshape and contour the breasts. This technique offers the most dramatic reduction in breast size but involves some scarring — fortunately, the incision lines are strategically placed and not visible in most clothing, including swimwear. With time, the scars will flatten and fade, blending in with the surrounding skin.

Lollipop Incision

For women requiring a moderate reduction in breast size, the vertical or “lollipop” technique may be appropriate. This method uses two incisions: one around the areola and another vertically from the areola to the breast crease, eliminating the horizontal incision along the breast fold.

This technique typically results in less scarring than the anchor method while still allowing significant tissue removal and reshaping. The lollipop approach works well for women with moderate breast size and sagging who desire both reduction and improved breast shape.

Liposuction Breast Reduction

For patients with a high proportion of fatty tissue rather than glandular tissue, liposuction may be used either alone or in combination with other techniques. While this minimally invasive approach involves smaller incisions, it typically does not work well as a standalone approach for women, as it cannot remove excess skin or the dense tissue that contributes to enlarged breasts. However, liposuction may be a good option for male breast reduction surgery.

What to Expect During Your Breast Reduction Journey

Initial Consultation

Your breast reduction journey begins with a comprehensive consultation at Texas Liposuction Specialty Clinic. During this important meeting, Dr. Payne will evaluate your concerns, goals and medical history while examining the size and shape of your breasts. This assessment helps us understand your needs and determine the best surgical approach for your unique situation.

Your consultation also provides you with an opportunity to learn more about the treatment process and ask any questions you may have. We always encourage patients to share their desired outcomes and expectations clearly. Dr. Payne will explain the recommended techniques, your potential results and any limitations based on your anatomy. This collaborative discussion ensures you feel informed, comfortable and confident in your decision.

Preparing for Breast Reduction Surgery

During your initial consultation, Dr. Payne will outline any steps you need to take to prepare for your breast reduction. Follow his directions carefully, as proper planning and pre-op prep are important for a safe, effective surgery and a smooth recovery. He may ask you to:

• Quit smoking before surgery — nicotine and tobacco products decrease blood flow and impair healing, which can make side effects or complications more likely
• Discontinue the use of certain medications or over-the-counter drugs that affect bleeding/clotting, such as aspirin, NSAIDs and herbal remedies 
• Recruit a trusted friend or family member to drive you home after surgery
• Arrange for help with household chores, meal prep or childcare for a week or so; it’s important to rest and not overdo it in the early stages of the healing process
• Prepare a recovery space at home, stocked with everything you need to be comfortable
• Take the recommended time off from work and other obligations 

He will also provide you with guidelines on when to stop eating or drinking before surgery and outline any necessary medical tests you may need to complete. These include a thorough review of your medical history, breast cancer risk and a mammogram for patients over 40. 

Your Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction is performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia in Houston, Texas. Dr. Payne has hospital privileges at the Woman’s Hospital of Texas, Memorial Hermann Texas Medical Center and Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital. Breast reduction typically takes about two to three hours to complete, but this can vary from patient to patient. During surgery, Dr. Payne will make incisions that allow him to access and remove excess skin, fat and glandular tissue using either the lollipop or anchor technique, reducing the overall size of your breasts. This is done carefully to minimize scarring and ensure symmetrical results. 

Once the desired breast size is achieved, Dr. Payne will close your incisions and wrap your breasts in bandages. A surgical bra will also be applied to maintain compression and reduce swelling. After your procedure, you’ll spend time in the recovery area while the initial effects of anesthesia wear off, but you will be able to go home later the same day with detailed aftercare instructions. You will need someone to drive you, as the effects of anesthesia can linger.

Breast Reduction Recovery

The recovery process is a critical time for healing that directly impacts your final results. Understanding what to expect during this period helps you prepare mentally and physically for the journey ahead. At Texas Liposuction Specialty Clinic, we provide comprehensive support throughout your recovery to ensure optimal healing and comfort.

Immediately Post-Op (First 48 Hours)

The first two days after your breast reduction surgery are focused on rest and initial healing. You’ll likely experience grogginess from the anesthesia after your procedure, which is why having someone drive you home and stay with you for at least the first 24 hours is essential.

During this immediate post-operative period, you may feel tightness, pressure, and general discomfort in your chest area. These sensations are completely normal and typically managed effectively with prescribed pain medication. Your breasts will be wrapped in gauze dressings and a surgical bra or elastic bandage to provide support and minimize swelling.

Critical Healing Period (The First Week)

Most patients experience the most noticeable discomfort during the first week of their recovery, with swelling and bruising typically peaking around days three to five before gradually subsiding. You’ll need to sleep on your back with your upper body slightly elevated to reduce swelling — using a wedge pillow can help maintain this position comfortably throughout the night. Limited arm movement is also recommended during this period to support proper healing.

Your first post-op appointment typically occurs within seven to 14 days, during which Dr. Payne will examine your incisions and healing progress, remove your sutures and address any questions or concerns you may have. He will also provide guidance on returning to work and incorporating light activities like walking or stretching back into your daily routine.

Returning to Your Normal Routine (Two to Four Weeks)

As you move beyond the first week, you’ll notice significant improvements in your comfort and mobility. Many patients transition from prescription pain medication to over-the-counter options during this time. The tight feeling in your chest begins to ease, though some swelling will persist. Most women return to work one to two weeks after surgery, depending on their job. Office workers typically go back sooner than those with more physically demanding occupations.

Your incisions will continue to heal, although the sensation in your breasts and nipples may fluctuate during this time — some areas might feel numb, while others may be hypersensitive. These changes are normal and gradually improve as the nerve endings heal and adjust.

Progressive Improvements (One to Three Months)

The one to three-month period brings continued improvement in your overall comfort and appearance. Most visible swelling subsides, and you’ll likely feel a growing sense of relief from the physical symptoms like chronic neck or back pain that prompted your surgery.

During this phase, you can gradually reintroduce more strenuous activities into your routine as approved by Dr. Payne. Around the six-week mark, most patients receive clearance to resume exercises like running, high-impact aerobics, and weight training for the upper body. Listen to your body during this transition and avoid pushing through pain or discomfort.

Your incision lines will continue to mature, typically appearing red or pink before gradually fading. Consistent use of recommended scar treatments, such as silicone sheets or gels, combined with sun protection, promotes optimal scar healing and minimizes visibility.

Breast Reduction Results

After surgery, your breasts will appear to be elevated, sitting higher on the chest wall. This is done intentionally — the breasts will “settle” with time into a more natural position, especially as swelling resolves. They may also feel less sensitive, particularly around the nipples and areola. While the reduced size of your breasts and improved proportions will be immediately apparent, it can take several months for your final results — shape, size and appearance — to develop.

Pain medication and compression garments will be prescribed to help manage pain, swelling and discomfort. Strenuous exercise will be restricted as your body heals, but walking several times a day after surgery is advised to promote circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. Most of your sutures will dissolve on their own, so limited incision care is needed. Dr. Payne will send you home with detailed aftercare instructions and activity guidelines to help ensure a smooth recovery, and you’re encouraged to call with any questions you may have. Your first follow-up appointment will be scheduled within one to three days to check your progress.

At Texas Liposuction Specialty Clinic, patient satisfaction is always our goal with breast reduction surgery. We want to improve your comfort and your confidence by reducing the size of your breasts. While the breasts naturally have some asymmetry that may remain after surgery, Dr. Payne uses advanced techniques to sculpt an aesthetically pleasing result. Breast reduction has one of the highest satisfaction rates among our patients, freeing them from the burden of overly large and heavy breasts so they can live the full, comfortable life they deserve.

Take the First Step Toward Relief & Confidence

If you’re experiencing physical discomfort, emotional distress or lifestyle limitations due to overly large breasts, breast reduction at Texas Liposuction Specialty Clinic may provide the relief you’ve been seeking. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Payne and his Houston-based team are ready to help you explore this life-changing procedure.

Call our office today at 713-461-8866 or complete our online contact form to begin your journey toward a more comfortable, confident life with breasts that complement your natural proportions. Your transformation starts with a simple conversation — we’re here to listen and help.