Is a Breast Reduction Painful?

Some discomfort is normal after breast reduction surgery, particularly in the first few days. Most patients describe the sensation as soreness or tightness rather than sharp pain, and Dr. Daly will provide pain management options to keep you comfortable during recovery. Many women are surprised at how manageable the discomfort is and how quickly they begin to feel relief from their previous symptoms, such as back and shoulder pain.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

In addition to your initial consultation, you’ll have a pre-operative visit to finalize your surgical plan and review instructions. After surgery, Dr. Daly typically sees patients for follow-up appointments within the first week, then again periodically over the next few months to monitor healing. On average, you can expect about 3–5 visits throughout the entire process, with ongoing support available whenever needed.

How Long Until I See Results?

You’ll notice an immediate difference in your breast size and physical relief right after surgery, but swelling and healing will take time to settle. Most women begin to see their new shape taking form within 4–6 weeks, with final results visible around 3–6 months post-op. Scars will continue to fade over time, and with proper care, your results will feel natural, balanced, and long-lasting.

What is the Difference Between a Breast Reduction and a Breast Lift?

A breast reduction and a breast lift are both transformative procedures that share some commonalities, but they serve different purposes. In both a breast reduction and a breast lift, the breast is lifted, the nipple is re-centered on the breast, and the areola can be made smaller. The primary difference is that in breast reduction, the goal is to reduce the size of the breasts, whereas in a breast lift, the goal is to maintain the same breast size. A breast reduction is designed to remove excess breast tissue, fat, and skin, alleviating discomfort and achieving a smaller, more proportionate breast size. On the other hand, a breast lift focuses on reshaping and repositioning the breasts to a higher, more youthful position without significantly changing their size. It’s ideal for those seeking to address sagging or loss of firmness caused by aging, pregnancy, or weight fluctuations. In some cases, a hybrid approach combining the two procedures can be used to achieve optimal results. Whichever path you choose, our goal is to help you feel lighter, more confident, and beautifully balanced.

Can I Combine a Breast Reduction With Other Procedures?

Breast reduction is often combined with other procedures, particularly those that enhance the overall shape and symmetry of the breasts or the body. Breast reduction is frequently combined with a tummy tuck as part of a “mommy makeover ”. Some patients also choose to combine breast reduction with liposuction , particularly in areas like the bra line, flanks, or underarms, to create a more refined contour and improve clothing fit. During your consultation, Dr. Daly will listen to your goals and help determine whether a combined approach is appropriate and safe for you.

Sacramento, CA

Breast Reduction

Introduction to Breast Reduction

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure designed to remove excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to achieve a breast size more proportionate to your body. For many women, overly large breasts can cause pain in the back, neck, or shoulders as well as skin irritation under the breasts. Beyond these physical issues, large breasts can limit an active lifestyle or make it hard to find clothing that fits well. Breast reduction surgery can help alleviate these symptoms as well as enhance body confidence and overall quality of life. With a focus on personalized care and natural-looking results, our goal is to help you feel more comfortable and confident in your body. Dr. Daly in Sacramento offers a unique, feminine approach to the procedure, allowing patients to feel more like themselves and at ease with their bodies.

Before & After Photos

Gallery

Photo Gallery

What is Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction is a surgical procedure in which tissue and fat are removed from the breasts to decrease their size. During a breast reduction, the breast is reduced in size, the breast is lifted, the nipple is recentered on the breast, and the areola is often made smaller. Typically caused by genetics or changes in weight, many women with larger breasts seek out the procedure and often combine it with others, such as body contouring or nipple reduction, to further enhance their aesthetic appearance. Breast reduction is a life-changing procedure that brings a significantly positive impact on one’s quality of life, and for that reason, is one of Dr. Daly’s favorite procedures to perform for patients in the greater Sacramento area.

A woman is pictured against a light gray background. She is light-skinned and has shoulder-length brown hair. Her arms are raised, with her hands near her head. She's wearing a white, strapless, ribbed-knit bra. The image focuses on the upper torso and arms, and the woman's expression is pleasant and relaxed. Her gaze is directed slightly to the right of the frame. The lighting is even and neutral. - Breast Reduction in Folsom, CA

Who Are the Best Candidates For Breast Reduction?

In Sacramento, individuals who are physically healthy, non-smokers, and struggling with the daily challenges of having disproportionately large breasts are considered ideal candidates for the procedure. This might include women who have chronic discomfort, skin irritation, emotional distress related to body image, difficulty being active the way they would like to be, or who just want smaller breasts! Women of all ages can be candidates, though it’s recommended to wait until breast development has stabilized for optimal results. Breast reduction can also be a great option for those whose breast size has changed due to weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or genetics.

What Are the Benefits of Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction surgery can be life-changing—physically, emotionally, and even socially. On a physical level, patients often experience immediate relief from chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain. The procedure can reduce skin irritation beneath the breasts, improve posture, and make physical activity more comfortable and accessible. Clothing also tends to fit more naturally and flatteringly, offering a wider range of styles and bras that no longer require excessive support. Emotionally, the transformation can be just as impactful. For many women, overly large breasts are a source of self-consciousness or unwanted attention. After surgery, patients frequently report feeling lighter, more confident, and at ease in their bodies. The result isn’t just a smaller bust, it’s the ability to move through life with less restriction and more self-assurance.

What’s the First Step?

If you’re considering breast reduction surgery, the first step is to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Daly at her office in Folsom. During this appointment, she’ll listen carefully to your conce s, answer your questions, and perform a physical evaluation to determine whether breast reduction is the right choice for you. This is a collaborative process—your comfort, goals, and lifestyle all play an important role in shaping the surgical plan. You’ll also discuss your medical history, your desired breast aesthetic, and explore potential outcomes. Dr. Daly believes in building a foundation of trust with every patient, so you’ll never feel rushed or pressured. Instead, expect an honest and thoughtful dialogue designed to help you make the most informed decision for your body and overall well-being.

What to Expect on the Day of Breast Reduction Surgery

On the day of your breast reduction, Dr. Daly and her surgical team will walk you through every step of the process, from pre-op markings to anesthesia. The procedure typically takes a few hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Daly will reshape the breasts, remove excess tissue, and reposition the nipples for a more youthful, natural contour. Once the surgery is complete, you’ll be taken to a recovery area where the team will monitor you as you wake up from anesthesia. Most patients retu home the same day, accompanied by detailed post-operative instructions and reassurance that Dr. Daly remains available throughout their healing jou ey.

Recuperation & Healing

Breast Reduction Recovery

Recovery after breast reduction is a gradual but empowering process. Most patients take about one to two weeks off work or school to rest and allow their bodies to heal. You’ll likely experience swelling, bruising, and some tende ess initially, but these symptoms improve steadily with time. Dr. Daly will provide a soft surgical bra to wear in the early stages and personalized instructions to help minimize discomfort and support a smooth recovery. Within a few weeks, many women begin to feel more mobile, lighter, and free, both physically and emotionally.

How Much Does a Breast Reduction Cost in Sacramento, CA?

The cost of breast reduction surgery in Sacramento can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure and the specifics of your surgical plan, but generally averages to about $12,000. During your consultation, Dr. Daly’s team will provide a comprehensive quote that includes all associated fees—surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, facility costs, and post-op care. Financing options may also be available to make the procedure more accessible.

Our Ethos

Why Choose Dr. Daly?

When you trust someone to change your body, you deserve a surgeon who prioritizes technical skill, artistry, compassion, and true listening. Dr. Lauren Daly, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Sacramento, CA, brings a fresh, modern perspective to breast augmentation by customizing every procedure to the patient’s unique body, goals, and lifestyle. Known for her meticulous eye for balance and proportion, Dr. Daly’s approach avoids the “overdone” look and instead focuses on creating natural-looking enhancements that empower women to feel beautiful, feminine, and true to themselves.

Breast Reduction FAQ’S

Some discomfort is normal after breast reduction surgery, particularly in the first few days. Most patients describe the sensation as soreness or tightness rather than sharp pain, and Dr. Daly will provide pain management options to keep you comfortable during recovery. Many women are surprised at how manageable the discomfort is and how quickly they begin to feel relief from their previous symptoms, such as back and shoulder pain.
In addition to your initial consultation, you’ll have a pre-operative visit to finalize your surgical plan and review instructions. After surgery, Dr. Daly typically sees patients for follow-up appointments within the first week, then again periodically over the next few months to monitor healing. On average, you can expect about 3–5 visits throughout the entire process, with ongoing support available whenever needed.
You’ll notice an immediate difference in your breast size and physical relief right after surgery, but swelling and healing will take time to settle. Most women begin to see their new shape taking form within 4–6 weeks, with final results visible around 3–6 months post-op. Scars will continue to fade over time, and with proper care, your results will feel natural, balanced, and long-lasting.
A breast reduction and a breast lift are both transformative procedures that share some commonalities, but they serve different purposes. In both a breast reduction and a breast lift, the breast is lifted, the nipple is re-centered on the breast, and the areola can be made smaller. The primary difference is that in breast reduction, the goal is to reduce the size of the breasts, whereas in a breast lift, the goal is to maintain the same breast size. A breast reduction is designed to remove excess breast tissue, fat, and skin, alleviating discomfort and achieving a smaller, more proportionate breast size. On the other hand, a breast lift focuses on reshaping and repositioning the breasts to a higher, more youthful position without significantly changing their size. It’s ideal for those seeking to address sagging or loss of firmness caused by aging, pregnancy, or weight fluctuations. In some cases, a hybrid approach combining the two procedures can be used to achieve optimal results. Whichever path you choose, our goal is to help you feel lighter, more confident, and beautifully balanced.
Breast reduction is often combined with other procedures, particularly those that enhance the overall shape and symmetry of the breasts or the body. Breast reduction is frequently combined with a tummy tuck as part of a “mommy makeover”. Some patients also choose to combine breast reduction with liposuction, particularly in areas like the bra line, flanks, or underarms, to create a more refined contour and improve clothing fit. During your consultation, Dr. Daly will listen to your goals and help determine whether a combined approach is appropriate and safe for you.

Get Started Today

Schedule Your Consultation

If you’ve been living with the physical or emotional weight of overly large breasts, you don’t have to continue doing so in silence. To explore whether breast reduction is right for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation at our Folsom office. Contact our practice or complete the consultation request form to schedule your appointment today.

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