The nipple is then moved upwards and the tissues closed to form a smaller breast. As in breast lift, the scars are usually around the areola, in a vertical line extending down from the nipple area, and along the lower fold of the breast. The surgery usually takes from one to two hours but can take longer. It is done under general anesthesia, so you will be asleep through the operation. Breast reduction is usually done in the hospital and may require an overnight stay.
Most women can return to work in three weeks and to all normal activities in three to four weeks.
After having breast reduction, as with breast lift, you may lose feeling in your nipple or breast for at least six weeks. This loss of feeling usually subsides gradually as the swelling goes down after surgery, but in some women it can last as long as a year or even be permanent. If the breast is especially large and hangs very low, the nipple and areola may have to be completely removed and resewn onto the breast higher up, in which case the nipple and areola will permanently lose all feeling. Breast reduction, like breast lift, leaves permanent scars. These can be lumpy and red for months following surgery, fading bit by bit until they are less noticeable.