Breast Reduction in Washington, DC

Name: Breast Reduction
Brand: Congressional Plastic Surgery
Rating: 5 (348 reviews)

Achieve a lighter, more proportionate silhouette with breast reduction surgery tailored to your body and your goals.

Relief From Pain Caused by Heavy Breasts

Women with overly large, heavy breasts can experience a range of symptoms, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, or rashes. When the breast tissue is too large for the woman’s frame and figure, it can lead to more personal issues, including embarrassment, trouble finding clothing that fits, and worries about drawing unwanted attention. Breast reduction surgery reshapes the breasts so they are in proportion to the figure.

What Is Breast Reduction Surgery?

Our Washington, DC, breast reduction surgery is a custom procedure that involves removing excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin, reshaping the breast mound, relocating the nipples, and creating a pleasing physical balance. Because breast reduction surgery is designed to correct a physical concern in addition to a cosmetic improvement, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) places breast reduction in the category of reconstructive surgery, as opposed to cosmetic surgery. Breasts that are too big or heavy for your frame and are out of proportion with your figure can cause back, neck, and shoulder pain, posture problems, difficulty with exercise, and other issues.

Breast reduction surgery provides a balanced, shapely breast size that’s in proportion with your body. Your surgery can alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with overly large breasts. Breast reduction surgery provides dramatic cosmetic enhancement, and often greatly improves confidence and self-esteem.

What to Expect During Your Breast Reduction?

Before your breast reduction surgery, you will have a thorough consultation with Dr. Chang or Dr. Jenny. They will will examine your breasts, review your medical history, and ask what your goals are for your breasts. You’ll have a chance to have your questions answered, and you’ll be walked through the steps of your breast reduction surgery in detail.

The Surgical Process

Your surgery will begin with general anesthesia. When this has taken effect, your surgeon will carefully make incisions around the areola and vertically downward from the center of the breast mound to the crease. In some cases, a further incision will also be made in the natural breast crease.

Reshaping and Closing

Once the incisions are made, your surgeon will remove excess fat, tissue, and skin to reduce the size of the breasts, lift and reshape them. He will create a higher, more aesthetically pleasing form, then reposition the nipples so that they point upward to achieve a more youthful, perkier look. Dr. Chang or Dr. Jenny will layer sutures deep within the tissue to support your newly sculpted breasts, and the incisions will be closed.

Real Patients Real Patients, Real Results

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Am I a Candidate for Breast Reduction?

If you are living with any of the following symptoms, you may be a candidate for breast reduction surgery:

Chronic Pain: The weight of heavy breasts can cause strain on the neck, back, and shoulders, resulting in chronic pain.
Poor Posture: Heavy breasts can cause poor posture, including rolling the shoulders forward, which can put pressure on the thoracic outlet (blood vessels and nerves between the collarbone and the first rib), compress nerves and blood vessels, and cause pain and tingling in the upper extremities.
Shoulder Grooves: The weight of heavy breasts pulling on the bra straps, day after day, can cut deep, painful grooves in the shoulders.
Skin Irritation: Rashes and skin irritation underneath the breasts, including heat rash, are common in very large-breasted women. It is difficult to keep the area under the breasts cool and dry when sweat cannot evaporate. Spillage out of a bra cup can also cause chafing on the sides of the breasts.

Testimonials What Our Patient Say

5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Chang is the best cosmetic surgeon I've come across.

"Dr. Chang is the best cosmetic surgeon I've come across. I thoroughly trust him, and his work is absolutely impeccable. Besides being a talented and professional surgeon, he is...

Sanja B.

5 out of 5 stars

He is a consummate professional, and his integrity and personal manner are outstanding.

"My husband had a cyst that was supposed to be a simple removal procedure. It was very deep and much more complicated to remove than initially diagnosed by a dermatologist. Dr. ...

Ellen S.

5 out of 5 stars

I am very pleased with the results.

"Highly recommend Dr. Christopher Chang. I had a relatively minor procedure that nonetheless required an 'artist's eye,' and I am very pleased with the results. Dr. Chang's mann...

Kevin R.

5 out of 5 stars

I would HIGHLY recommend you as a doctor!

Hi Dr. Chang, I am doing very well, and I would HIGHLY recommend you as a doctor!

Female (51, mommy makeover)

5 out of 5 stars

Thank you so much!

I went back to work today, and someone complimented me, saying I looked tiny! Lol, totally made my morning. Thank you so much!

Female (30, tummy tuck)

View all Testimonials

How Much Does a Breast Reduction in Washington, DC, Cost?

Your Northern Virginia breast reduction surgery can vary in cost, based on the extent of the procedure required to achieve your unique needs. The specific price for your procedure will be determined after a consultation with Dr. Chang, who will design a surgical plan for you.

woman looking to the side | woman touching her face | cherry blossom tree

Breast Reduction Incisions

A breast reduction can be performed with several types of incisions.

Lollipop

The incisions are placed around the areola and vertically downward from the center of the breast mound to the crease.

Anchor

The incisions are around the areola, vertically down the lower portion of the breast mound, and in the natural breast crease.

Breast Reduction Scars

As the surgery involves incisions, you will have scars. They are carefully placed so they are hidden from view, even in low-cut tops, bras, or bikinis.

Meet the Providers Behind Your Care

The expertise of our board-certified surgical team guides every procedure at Congressional Plastic Surgery.

Dr. Christopher Chang has been named a Top Doctor by Washingtonian Magazine and Newsweek. He is double board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He trained at Harvard, NYU, Yale, and Johns Hopkins Hospital.

Dr. Hillary Jenny is a board-eligible plastic surgeon with training from MIT, the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and Johns Hopkins Hospital. She also completed a prestigious aesthetic surgery fellowship in Beverly Hills, specializing in rhinoplasty, facelift, and breast and body procedures.

Great People Make a Better Practice

Every member of our team was selected for the same reason: they're exceptional at what they do.

Meet the Full Team

Dr. Christopher Chang, MD

Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Founder

Meet Dr. Chang

Dr. Hillary Jenny, MPH, MD

Board-Eligible Plastic Surgeon

Meet Dr. Jenny

Monica Thompson, PA

Physician Assistant

Meet the Team

Carey McLaughlin, LME

Licensed Master Esthetician

Meet the Team

Your Breast Reduction Surgery What to Expect

Step 01

Day of Surgery

You will be prepped for surgery and put under anesthesia.

Step 02

Immediately After Surgery

After surgery, you will be monitored by medical personnel until given the okay to return home under the care of another adult. You will be wearing a surgical bra over your bandages.

Step 03

Recovery Timeline for Breast Reduction Surgery

If you are going to undergo breast reduction in Northern, VA, understanding what to expect in your recovery is an important issue.

Step 04

Week After Surgery

The week after your surgery, swelling, bruising, and shape issues start to resolve. You must still avoid lifting, stretching, bending, or any vigorous motions. Your activities are limited during the first week. No smoking or alcoholic beverages to be consumed.

Step 05

Two Weeks After Surgery

The swelling has significantly reduced at the two-week mark. Stitches are typically removed in ten days to two weeks. You will still need to wear the compression bra, but you are starting to feel like yourself and are able to return to work or other activities. No exercise other than walking.

Step 06

One Month After Surgery

Your breasts have taken on their new shape and are starting to look as they will when finally healed. You should feel well enough to return to your usual social activities, but not vigorous exercise.

Step 07

Three Months After Surgery

At three months, your breasts look natural and beautiful, but your scars have not fully faded, appearing as a red line on your skin. They are invisible when wearing bras, swimsuits, or revealing clothing.

Step 08

Six Months After Surgery

Your breasts look beautiful, round, and balanced, and you are far more comfortable with your figure, and sensitivity and numbness have faded away.

Step 09

One Year After Surgery

One year after your surgery, you are enjoying your new figure, your scars are fading to match your skin, and you are able to engage in all activities you missed due to overly large breasts, including vigorous exercise, jogging, or others. Life is good.

Aftercare Instructions

You will be provided with extensive post-op instructions that must be carefully followed. The basics of your instructions include:

Take all prescribed medications as directed, and ensure you complete the full course of antibiotics.
Do not remove the bra or bandages until instructed by our surgeon.
No smoking or drinking alcohol during recovery.
Rest as much as possible so your body can use its energy to heal.
Plan on ten days off work.
Watch for signs of infection, including swelling, redness, or pain more significant in one breast, bleeding, or foul-smelling discharge from incisions, or fever over 101 degrees.
Sleep on your back.
Take frequent short walks to increase circulation.
Use ice packs to control swelling.
Bathe only as directed.

Risks and Complications

All surgeries carry some risk. In breast reduction, the risks can include reactions to anesthesia, infection, excessive bleeding, uneven results, blood clots, poor wound healing, changes in sensation, and excessive scarring, among others.

Why Choose Dr. Chang for Breast Reduction in Washington, DC, and Northern Virginia?

Not all plastic surgeons can claim the outstanding education and level of professional experience that Dr. Change brings to breast reduction surgery. A graduate of Harvard, New York University, Yale, and Johns Hopkins, Dr. Chang received many awards and honors and gained experience at leading institutions, including Bethesda National Naval Medical Center, National Institutes of Health, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children’s Hospital, and Yale University School of Medicine.

Breast Reduction Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of anesthesia is used?

This procedure is most often performed under general anesthesia, but may be performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation.

Are the results permanent?

The surgery does not halt the aging process, but if you maintain a healthy weight, your breasts should look plump and natural for many, many years.

What should I eat after?

The effects of anesthesia can impact your digestion, so stay hydrated and eat easy-to-digest, soft foods in the early stages.

When can I smoke after?

It is best to end the smoking habit, but if you plan to smoke following surgery, you must wait at least two months.

When can I return to work?

Most patients can return to work within ten days to two weeks after their Washington, DC, breast reduction, while some feel well enough to return to work in one day.

When can I do intense exercise again?

You can return to intense exercise in about six weeks.

How long does the surgery take?

The surgery varies but takes between two and five hours to complete.

Can I drive home after surgery?

You cannot drive after surgery, and cannot until your incisions have healed, and you are off any pain medication.

When can I wear a bathing suit in public after?

You should feel comfortable wearing a bathing suit in about six weeks, or earlier.

When are my final results?

Full results are achieved at about three months, with full scar fading taking up to a year.

When can I wear a real bra?

You should be able to wear a regular bra at about six weeks.

Can I breastfeed after a breast reduction?

If you plan to breastfeed in the future, the surgery will be planned to protect that ability.

When can I have sex after a breast reduction?

It is advised that you wait at least two weeks to have sex or engage in any vigorous physical activities.

Does breast reduction surgery affect breast sensitivity?

You may experience changes in sensitivity, which typically resolve over time.

Will I lose nipple sensitivity?

Your nipples may feel less sensitive for a time, but in most cases, sensation returns over time.

Will breast reduction surgery cause me to lose cleavage?

You will still have cleavage, but much less. If your breasts are more widely spaced naturally, you may have almost no cleavage.

When can I have alcohol after?

It is best to avoid alcohol for at least one month, or longer.

Will my tattoo get damaged?

If your tattoo is on the breast skin, it could be affected by breast reduction.

How long should I wait to fly on an airplane?

For a short trip, you must wait at least two weeks. For a longer flight, wait six weeks.

When can I submerge in water?

You will need permission from our surgeon, but generally, you can submerge your breasts in two to four weeks after surgery.

Am I too old for breast reduction? Is there a cut-off age?

There is no cut-off age for breast reduction, as such. The decision about surgery will be based on your general health and safety.

Breast Reduction in Washington, DC

Relief From Pain Caused by Heavy Breasts

What Is Breast Reduction Surgery?

What to Expect During Your Breast Reduction?

The Surgical Process

Reshaping and Closing

Real Patients Real Patients, Real Results

Related Procedures

Schedule A Consultation

Am I a Candidate for Breast Reduction?

Testimonials What Our Patient Say

Dr. Chang is the best cosmetic surgeon I've come across.

He is a consummate professional, and his integrity and personal manner are outstanding.

I am very pleased with the results.

I would HIGHLY recommend you as a doctor!

Thank you so much!

How Much Does a Breast Reduction in Washington, DC, Cost?

Breast Reduction Incisions

Lollipop

Anchor

Breast Reduction Scars

Meet the Providers Behind Your Care

Great People Make a Better Practice

Dr. Christopher Chang, MD

Dr. Hillary Jenny, MPH, MD

Monica Thompson, PA

Carey McLaughlin, LME

Your Breast Reduction Surgery What to Expect

Day of Surgery

Immediately After Surgery

Recovery Timeline for Breast Reduction Surgery

Week After Surgery

Two Weeks After Surgery

One Month After Surgery

Three Months After Surgery

Six Months After Surgery

One Year After Surgery

Aftercare Instructions

Risks and Complications

Why Choose Dr. Chang for Breast Reduction in Washington, DC, and Northern Virginia?

Breast Reduction Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of anesthesia is used?

Are the results permanent?

What should I eat after?

When can I smoke after?

When can I return to work?

When can I do intense exercise again?

How long does the surgery take?

Can I drive home after surgery?

When can I wear a bathing suit in public after?

When are my final results?

When can I wear a real bra?

Can I breastfeed after a breast reduction?

When can I have sex after a breast reduction?

Does breast reduction surgery affect breast sensitivity?

Will I lose nipple sensitivity?

Will breast reduction surgery cause me to lose cleavage?

When can I have alcohol after?

Will my tattoo get damaged?

How long should I wait to fly on an airplane?

When can I submerge in water?

Am I too old for breast reduction? Is there a cut-off age?

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