Dr. Michael C. Glafkides
San Mateo Plastic Surgery

Breast Reduction

Reduce breast size and relieve discomfort while achieving natural, proportionate results

Reduction Mammoplasty

Relief and Renewed Confidence

Breast reduction surgery, medically known as reduction mammoplasty, is designed to alleviate the physical and emotional challenges of excessively large breasts. This transformative procedure reduces breast size, reshapes the breast tissue, and repositions the nipple-areola complex to create a more proportionate, comfortable silhouette.

With 35 years of surgical expertise, Dr. Michael C. Glafkides employs advanced techniques to minimize scarring while delivering natural, beautiful results that restore both physical comfort and self-confidence.

Ideal Candidates

  • Experience chronic neck, back, or shoulder pain due to breast weight
  • Have skin irritation or rashes beneath the breasts
  • Experience difficulty with physical activity or exercise
  • Have disproportionately large breasts relative to body frame
  • Are at a stable, healthy weight and in good overall health
  • Have realistic expectations about surgical outcomes
Physical & Emotional Relief

Benefits of Breast Reduction

Beyond aesthetic improvements, breast reduction surgery offers significant physical and quality-of-life benefits.

Pain Relief

Alleviate chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain caused by excessive breast weight.

Improved Posture

Reduce strain on the spine and achieve better overall body alignment and comfort.

Enhanced Physical Activity

Participate more comfortably in exercise, sports, and daily activities.

Better-Fitting Clothing

Enjoy more clothing options and achieve a more balanced, proportionate figure.

Reduced Skin Irritation

Eliminate painful rashes and skin conditions caused by breast weight and friction.

Increased Confidence

Feel more comfortable in your body and confident in social and professional settings.

What to Expect

The Procedure

Surgical Approach

Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 2-4 hours. Dr. Michael C. Glafkides uses advanced surgical techniques to remove excess breast tissue, fat, and skin while reshaping the breast and repositioning the nipple-areola complex to a more natural, youthful position.

Incision patterns vary based on breast size and desired results, but Dr. Michael C. Glafkides prioritizes techniques that minimize visible scarring and maintain optimal breast function, including the potential for future breastfeeding when possible.

Recovery Timeline

First Week: Rest at home, manage discomfort with prescribed medications, wear surgical support bra. Most patients experience significant relief from pain immediately.

2-3 Weeks: Return to light, non-strenuous work. Continue wearing support garments and avoid heavy lifting or vigorous activity.

4-6 Weeks: Gradual return to normal activities, including light exercise. Swelling continues to diminish.

3-6 Months: Final results become apparent as swelling fully resolves and breast shape settles. Scars continue to fade over time.

Long-Term Results

Breast reduction surgery provides lasting results, with most patients experiencing permanent relief from physical discomfort. While breasts will continue to age naturally and may change with weight fluctuations or pregnancy, the benefits of reduction typically endure for many years. Dr. Glafkides creates results that look natural and age gracefully, maintaining proportion and symmetry over time.

Ready to Experience Relief?

Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and discover how breast reduction can improve your quality of life.