Introduction to Breast Reduction

There’s a common phrase that gets thrown around often: “Bigger is better”. While this may be true with many things (who’s going to turn down a larger slice of cake?), there are situations in which bigger is not only worse but can be detrimental. In the case of larger breasts, many women suffer from back pain, shoulder pain, and even just general discomfort. Heavy breasts can lead to significant physical burdens, chronic pain, and emotional distress, often impacting a woman’s self-esteem. Some women feel self-conscious or experience disproportionately large breasts that interfere with their daily lives and overall well-being.

At Plastic Surgery Scottsdale, Dr. Alexander Golger, an experienced breast surgeon at our Scottsdale practice, provides breast reduction surgery to help his female Scottsdale patients achieve a better quality of life with breasts that are more suitable for their body type and needs. To learn more about this procedure, please continue reading the information provided below.

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What Sets Dr. Golger Apart as the Premier Breast Reduction Practice in Scottsdale?

  • Dr. Alexander Golger stands out as a top breast reduction surgeon in Scottsdale because of his deep commitment to safety, aesthetics, and patient satisfaction. With over 15 years of experience in cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery, Dr. Golger is a seasoned breast surgeon and breast reduction specialist in Scottsdale who has successfully helped hundreds of women achieve relief from discomfort and regain confidence in their appearance.
  • Dr. Golger is a board-certified plastic surgeon by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and is also a member of The Aesthetic Society and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) — a distinction that ensures his training meets the highest standards in the field.
  • He completed his medical degree at the prestigious University of Toronto, followed by a highly competitive residency in plastic surgery at the same institution.
  • Dr. Golger creates customized treatment plans for each patient, ensuring results that not only feel better but look beautifully natural and proportional to your figure. He ensures that each patient’s needs are met and that patients are well-informed about their options to achieve optimal outcomes. His practice is built around trust, compassion, and achieving outcomes that enhance both health and confidence.

What is Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction surgery is a fantastic solution for problems that are caused by large, drooping breasts (also called breast hypertrophy), which can affect women of practically any age, even occurring amongst those in good physical shape. Overly large breasts, oversized breasts, and large breasts can cause neck pain, posture problems, and poor posture, often limiting participation in physical activities. This condition can often lead to neck and back pain because it stretches the nerves, forcing you to stand and walk to compensate for the strain put on the muscles and bones of your back. If left untreated, it can negatively affect a woman’s posture.

In addition to improving the aforementioned problems, breast reduction can also refine the size and shape of your breasts. The procedure improves breast size and breast shape, making your breasts more proportional to the rest of your body and potentially providing an upward lift.

Some of the more common reasons women choose to receive a breast reduction include:

  • Back, neck, or shoulder pain caused by the weight of excessively large breasts
  • Breasts that are too large in proportion to the body frame
  • Get indentations in their shoulders from tight bra straps
  • Have heavy, pendulous breasts with nipples and areolas that point downward
  • Must restrict physical activity due to the size and weight of their breasts
  • One breast is larger than the other
  • Suffering from skin irritation beneath their breasts
  • Chronic neck pain and posture problems due to oversized breasts

There are two primary techniques used during breast reduction:

  • Anchor Breast Reduction: This technique involves an incision that is made encircling the areola, extending vertically to the inframammary fold, and then horizontally across the breast crease. The Anchor incision allows the maximum amount of room for Dr. Golger to reshape enlarged breasts suffering from severe breast ptosis. During this procedure, excess breast tissue and excess skin are removed, and the nipple may be moved to a higher position for improved contour. Areola reduction can also be performed if needed for better proportion. When a significant amount of tissue is removed, special care is taken to maintain the blood supply and sensation.
  • Lollipop Breast Reduction: With the Lollipop technique, a vertical incision is made starting around the areola and extending downward to the natural fold beneath the breast. This approach provides Dr. Golger and his team with excellent access to remove excess fat, skin, and glandular tissue while reshaping the breast for a more lifted and balanced appearance. The nipple may also be repositioned higher on the breast mound to enhance symmetry, and areola reduction can be performed if needed for better proportion. One of the main advantages of this method is that the resulting scar is discreetly placed and typically well-concealed by bras and swimwear. For patients requiring a more extensive reduction, we take careful measures to protect nerve function and maintain healthy circulation to the nipple and surrounding tissue.

Breast reduction, performed by an experienced surgeon, can address both functional and aesthetic concerns, thereby improving quality of life and body confidence.

Breast Reduction Quick Facts

  • Surgery Time: Approximately 3–4 hours
  • Price: Approximately $8,500–$12,000 (Cost may vary depending on case complexity. Please inquire during your consultation for a personalized quote.)
  • Recovery: Most patients return to work and light activity within 1–2 weeks; full recovery takes 4–6 weeks.
  • Results: Noticeable immediately, with final shape and contour settling in over 3–4 months as swelling subsides.

What Are the Benefits of Breast Reduction?

Our female patients who undergo a breast reduction in Scottsdale, AZ, can enjoy the following benefits:

  • Alleviated back, neck, and shoulder pain
  • Better proportioned body
  • Clothing fits better
  • Fast recovery time
  • Improved hygiene
  • Improved posture
  • More active lifestyle
  • Reduced skin irritation

Many patients experience immediate relief from physical burdens, such as pain and discomfort, allowing them to resume their daily routines more easily after surgery. The procedure can also help reduce self-consciousness by improving body image and confidence, while providing natural-looking results that complement each patient’s unique shape.

Who Are The Best Candidates For Breast Reduction?

A breast reduction can be performed at any age; however, we highly encourage you to wait for your breasts to fully develop before considering this surgery, which usually occurs between the ages of 18 and 23. Ideal candidates for breast reduction surgery are those who meet specific criteria related to physical symptoms, health status, and lifestyle factors. Meeting these specific criteria makes someone a good candidate for the procedure. We believe that good candidates possess the following characteristics:

  • In overall good health
  • Maintain realistic expectations from procedure results
  • Nonsmokers

We have also found that childbirth and breastfeeding can have a significant and unpredictable effect on the size and shape of your breasts. This is why many women choose to undergo breast reduction after having children and feel that they can address any subsequent changes later. If you plan to breastfeed in the future, please discuss this with Dr. Golger during your consultation.

What’s the First Step?

If you believe a breast reduction in Scottsdale could benefit you, we strongly recommend contacting our practice to schedule a consultation. When you come in for your appointment, you will meet with Dr. Golger, who will evaluate your breasts. You will have the opportunity to express your concerns and goals for the procedure, as well as share your medical history. It is especially important to disclose all current medications you are taking, as this information helps ensure your safety and allows the doctor to assess your overall health and surgical suitability as a patient. It is very important to be open and honest with the doctor, as he will be creating your surgical plan, and any bit of information allows him to make safe and informed decisions.

Once Dr. Golger has crafted your plan based on the details gathered from your meeting, and you agree with his assessment, our Patient Coordinator can assist you in scheduling your surgical date. You will also be provided with instructions to follow before your surgery that will promote a healthy and successful outcome.

5 Steps to Prepare for My Breast Reduction?

To prepare for your breast reduction surgery, Dr. Golger and his team will provide you with a detailed pre-operative plan. Here are some general steps to expect:

  1. Medical Evaluation: You may be asked to undergo lab work or a baseline mammogram prior to surgery.
  2. Adjust Medications: Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and Vitamin E, unless directed otherwise.
  3. Stop Smoking: If you smoke, you must stop at least 4 weeks before and after surgery to avoid healing complications.
  4. Arrange Help: Have a family member or trusted friend available to drive you home and assist you during the first few days post-op.
  5. Prepare Your Recovery Space: Set up a comfortable area in your home with pillows, easy-to-reach essentials, and entertainment to help you rest properly after surgery.

What to Expect on the Day of Breast Reduction Surgery

On the day of your Breast Reduction surgery, you will first be administered general anesthesia. Once you are sedated, Dr. Golger will make incisions that are strategically planned so that excess breast fat and glandular tissue can be removed and shape your breasts to have a nice aesthetic contour. This operation is a surgical procedure involving the removal and reshaping of breast tissue to achieve the desired size and appearance. Should you require it, your nipples can also be repositioned so they sit in a natural location on your newer, smaller breasts. Once he is finished, Dr. Golger will use sutures or medical tape to close the wounds. Your breasts will either be wrapped with compression gauze or you will be asked to wear a specialty support bra (often referred to as a surgical bra) for support and to prevent excessive swelling.

Generally, a breast reduction procedure takes approximately three to four hours.

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Breast Reduction Recovery

After your breast reduction surgery, you’ll be moved to our recovery suite, where our medical team will closely monitor you as you wake up from anesthesia. Once you’re stable and alert, you’ll be discharged to recover at home—just be sure to arrange for a trusted friend or family member to drive you. Some soreness, swelling, and discomfort are normal in the days following surgery, but Dr. Golger will prescribe medication to help manage pain and provide you with detailed post-operative instructions to support a smooth healing process.

To aid in recovery and support your new breast contour, you’ll need to wear a compression bra or surgical garment. For the first several days, it’s helpful to have someone assist with daily household tasks. Light activity is encouraged, but it’s essential to avoid any physically demanding activities, including lifting heavy objects, for at least four weeks. Following these guidelines carefully will help minimize complications and promote optimal results.

8 Tips for Recovery

  1. Wear your compression bra as directed to reduce swelling and support the healing process.
  2. Sleep on your back, slightly elevated, to avoid pressure on your breasts.
  3. Stay hydrated and eat a nutritious diet to promote healing.
  4. Take medications as prescribed, and don’t skip pain relief if needed.
  5. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for at least 4 weeks.
  6. Attend all post-op appointments so your healing progress can be closely monitored.
  7. Avoid underwire bras for the first few months to reduce pressure on incision sites.
  8. Be patient with your scars — they will fade over time and can be treated with silicone scar sheets or topical gels.

How Much Does Breast Reduction Cost in Scottsdale, AZ?

The cost of a breast reduction in Scottsdale can vary based on several factors, including the technique used by Dr. Golger. During your consultation, we will be better able to help you understand exactly what your costs will look like based on the procedure approach.

In some cases, health insurance may cover this procedure; however, it may take some time to determine the specific coverage. We suggest that you contact your medical insurance provider to determine their requirements for Breast reduction surgery.

Why Choose Dr. Golger?

Dr. Alexander Golger is a highly skilled and experienced plastic surgeon and leader at Plastic Surgery Scottsdale. His extensive training and expertise in plastic and reconstructive surgery, combined with his artistic eye, allow him to achieve natural-looking and exceptional results for his patients. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care and attention to each patient, ensuring that they feel comfortable and supported throughout their Breast Reduction experience.

Dr. Golgler is a board-certified plastic surgeon and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS), the Fellowship of the Royal Colleges of Surgeons (FRCS), the Ontario Medical Association (OMA), the Canadian Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (CSAPS), and the Canadian Medical Association (CMA).

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Schedule Your Consultation

If a breast reduction in Scottsdale feels like the right choice for you, we encourage you to contact our practice to schedule your consultation with Dr. Golger. You can call our office directly or use our online contact form to request an appointment, and a friendly member of our team will be in touch with you. Your life shouldn’t be held back by pain or discomfort, and a breast reduction can do so much to help you with that.

Breast Reduction FAQs

Your procedure questions answered.

Genuine and Talented

I had an abdominoplasty done by Dr Golger here almost 2 years ago and realized I never left a review. Everyday Im so thankful for the confidence its given me. Dr Golger is one of the most professional, genuine and talented doctors Ive encountered.

Extremely Happy

My experience with Dr. Golger, and his team was a dream! From the consultation to the post-op follow up appointments, they treated me with genuine warmth and care. I am extremely happy with my results, and the healing process was absolutely seamless.

Wonderful Staff

Dr golger is an amazing surgeon he knows what he is doing I went to him for a breast reduction and I couldn’t be much happier. Both Cathy & Josie are amazing as well. Really happy i came across Dr. golger and his wonderful staff.

Highly Recommend

I highly recommend avenue plastic surgery. I just had a breast reduction and I am extremely pleased! Everyone in the office was amazing at answering any questions I have had over the phone as well . Dr Golger made me feel so comfortable .

Phenomenal Surgeon!

Dr. Golger is a phenomenal surgeon!! I can't recommend him enough. He flawlessly performed my breast reduction and lift in June 2022 then performed my breast reconstruction immediately after having my cancer prevention mastectomy done.

Very Ethical

Very ethical Dr he was kind patient and understanding. He took his time to explain the procedure. I decided to go back to my original Dr and Dr Golger refunded my deposit without any issues as promised. I highly recommend Dr Golger. Thanks to Valerie for her exceptional customer service

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