BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY SOUTH BAY
BREAST ENHANCEMENT SPECIALIST OF SOUTH BAY

*Individual Results May Vary
CASE STUDY
Patient is a 34-year-old woman who is unhappy with the size and shape of her breasts, following breast augmentation with 520cc implants 10 years ago.
Surgery: Patient underwent a Bilateral Implant removal, Bilateral Capsulectomy, and Bilateral Mastopexy (Breast Lift).
WHAT IS BREAST REDUCTION?
Breast reduction surgery (reduction mammoplasty) is a medically indicated procedure that reduces the size of a woman’s breasts, decreases the weight on their shoulders, chest, and upper back, and also creates a more contoured lifted appearance. Additionally, this procedure can help reduce breast asymmetry, which will result in a more balanced aesthetic.
With this procedure, women will feel more confident in themselves and how they look. No longer will they worry about the unwanted attention and stares from strangers or the way their large breasts get in the way and keep them from the activities they love.
After a breast reduction, you’ll be able to enjoy living a life free of back and neck pain caused by your overly large breasts. In short, you’ll be able to live the life you want.
WHY CHOOSE DR. GOLDBERG?
Dr. Mytien Goldberg is a leading female plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills who specializes in Breast reconstruction and breast reconstruction revision. Recognized by her peers as one of the most skilled microsurgeon, she is also known for her attention to detail, high-caliber surgical skills and beautiful, natural results. She has been in practice for over 10 years and is a faculty member with the division of plastic surgery at UCLA David Geffen School of medicine. She was awarded the teacher of the year by UCLA chief residents for her mentorship and teaching.
For many women in southern California and around the country, Dr. Mytien Goldberg is the plastic surgeon of choice for breast reconstruction, revision, and correction procedures.
You can schedule a consultation with Dr. Goldberg Contact here.
HOW IS BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY PERFORMED?
Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so you will not feel any pain or discomfort.
Once the anesthesia has been administered, Dr. Goldberg will make the incisions in your breasts. She will remove excess breast tissue and fat; if needed, liposuction may be used to remove stubborn fat on the side of the chest and armpit areas.
The remaining breast tissue and fat will be reshaped to give a natural aesthetic appearance. Any excess skin will then be removed, and the nipple and areola will be repositioned. Lastly, the incisions will be closed.
GalaFLEX® scaffolding (a supporting mesh material) will be added to act as an internal bra to provide better structure and support.
WHAT INCISIONS ARE USED FOR BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY?
There are two types of incisions commonly used for breast reduction surgery:
- Lollipop incision, where the incision is made around each areola and then extends down the front of the breast, from the areola to the bottom of the breast
- Anchor incision, which starts as a lollipop incision but adds a horizontal incision at the bottom crease (inframammary fold) of each breast
HOW LONG WILL SURGERY TAKE?
The actual breast reduction procedure can take two to four hours to complete, though you should plan on being there for longer to account for the time it takes to administer the anesthesia and for the anesthesia to wear off.
HOW LONG DOES BREAST REDUCTION RECOVERY TAKE?
You will be sore for the first few days after your breast reduction procedure. This is completely normal and to be expected. Medication can be taken to lessen any pain you may experience. Additionally, you will have some swelling and bruising in the surgical areas for the first week or two, though these will dissipate on their own.
While you will be given more exact postoperative instructions, you will want to plan to rest your body for two to four weeks. During this time, you should get up and move around a little to help speed up the recovery, but you should keep your activity to a minimum: slow walks and light stretching.
During the first month of your recovery, you should not wear underwire bras, opting instead for a surgical bra or compression garment. While you will have scars, since this is an invasive procedure, your breast reduction scars will fade over time.
In total, it usually takes patients six weeks to fully recover from their breast reduction surgery and feel back to normal, though with a lighter weight on their chest.
WHAT RESULTS CAN BE EXPECTED FROM BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY?
After your breast reduction, you will have more manageable and smaller breasts. You will be able to wear the clothing that you’ve always wanted to wear but couldn’t. You will also find yourself feeling lighter and freer without any of the pain and discomfort that you may have felt with the larger breast size. For most women who underwent breast reduction, it will be the first time in their life where they can wear a top without a supportive bra.
More than anything, though, you will feel a sense of comfort in your own skin and the way you look. You’ll now be able to go out and enjoy the activities that you could only watch from the sidelines before.
HOW MUCH DOES A BREAST REDUCTION COST?
Most major medical insurance plans cover breast reduction procedures. However, the medical policy may have weight requirements of breast tissue being removed (depending on the patient’s BMI and Body surface area).
Furthermore, the patient will need to have persistent clinical symptoms for more than six months. This includes:
- Pain in the neck
- Pain in the shoulders
- Pain in the upper back
- Painful kyphosis documented by X-rays
- Pain/discomfort/ulceration from bra straps cutting into shoulders
- Skin breakdown (severe soft tissue infection, tissue necrosis, ulceration hemorrhage) from overlying breast tissue
Some patients will elect to undergo breast reduction without involving their medical insurance. Like any cosmetic surgery, the price of a breast reduction varies with each patient and procedure. The price is dependent on various factors, including the extent of the treatment and whether any other procedures are being combined with breast reduction.
At your consultation, you will be provided an accurate cost estimate for the procedure.
IS FINANCING AVAILABLE?
Yes. We finance through
CareCredit® and Prosper-American Healthcare Lending. However, if you are not looking to work with an outside lender, we accept cash, Visa, Master Card, and American Express. Checks are only accepted for deposits.
CAN I COMBINE MY BREAST REDUCTION WITH OTHER PROCEDURES?
While many women who struggle with overly large breasts choose to simply undergo breast reduction surgery by itself, other women choose to combine their reduction with other surgical procedures so that they can achieve even more dynamic results. One of the most common combination procedures is liposuction of the chest. Other procedures that can be combined with breast reduction surgery include:
FAQ's
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for breast reduction surgery?
If you suffer from physical discomfort like back, neck, or shoulder pain, skin irritation beneath the breasts, posture issues, or difficulty with physical activity, you may benefit from breast reduction surgery. Candidates should be in good health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations about results and scarring. Dr. Mytien Goldberg performs a detailed evaluation, considering your body frame, breast size, and symptoms. In South Bay, many women also seek surgery for improved self-confidence and clothing fit. A consultation helps determine whether surgery is the right solution for your specific needs and whether your symptoms qualify for insurance reimbursement.
What is the recovery process like after breast reduction surgery?
Recovery typically takes 2 to 6 weeks. Most patients go home the same day and return to non-strenuous activities within a few days. Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are common but manageable with prescribed medication. A surgical bra is usually worn to support healing and reduce movement. Heavy lifting and intense exercise should be avoided for at least 4 weeks. Dr. Goldberg provides detailed aftercare instructions and personalized follow-ups for her South Bay patients to ensure safe recovery. It’s essential to follow her guidance closely to minimize complications and support the best aesthetic outcome.
Does breast reduction also lift the breasts?
Yes, a breast reduction procedure typically includes a breast lift. In removing excess tissue, Dr. Goldberg reshapes and repositions the breasts and nipples to achieve a more lifted, youthful contour. This dual benefit enhances both function and appearance. In many South Bay patients, the added lift significantly improves self-confidence and comfort, especially when wearing fitted clothing or swimsuits. The procedure isn’t just about reducing size—it’s about restoring proportion and balance to your frame. Dr. Goldberg’s artistic approach ensures a natural, balanced look that suits your body type and aesthetic goals.
Can breast reduction surgery be covered by insurance?
Yes, but coverage depends on medical necessity and documentation. Insurers often require proof of chronic pain, rashes, restricted activity, or prior conservative treatments like physical therapy. Dr. Goldberg assists South Bay patients with preoperative documentation, including photos, symptom history, and letters of medical necessity. She works with you and your insurer to ensure all criteria are met. Some insurance plans also require a minimum amount of breast tissue to be removed. Even if insurance doesn’t cover the procedure, financing options are available to make it more accessible. Discussing this early in your consultation is key.
What are the emotional benefits of breast reduction surgery?
Beyond physical relief, many women report feeling liberated after surgery. Emotional benefits include improved body image, greater clothing options, and restored self-esteem. South Bay patients often describe feeling lighter—both physically and mentally. Activities like running, yoga, and dancing become more enjoyable and accessible. Some also feel more in control of their personal image, especially after years of unwanted attention or discomfort. Dr. Goldberg emphasizes the emotional transformation just as much as the physical, and she’s known for guiding patients through this transition with compassion and support during every stage of the journey.
What is the difference between a breast reduction and a breast lift?
A breast reduction removes excess tissue, fat, and skin to reduce size and weight, while a breast lift reshapes and repositions the breasts without significantly changing their size. However, a reduction always includes a lifting component to restore youthful contours. In South Bay, Dr. Goldberg often tailors the procedure to meet both functional and aesthetic goals. If you’re happy with your size but not the sagging, a lift alone may suffice. If discomfort or heaviness is an issue, reduction is likely the better choice. A personalized consultation will help determine the best surgical plan for you.
How do I prepare for breast reduction surgery?
Preparation involves medical evaluations, lab work, and pausing certain medications like blood thinners. Smokers must quit in advance, as nicotine can interfere with healing. Dr. Goldberg provides a checklist tailored to your health profile. Arranging time off work and help with daily tasks is essential for the initial recovery period. Pre-surgery, you'll also discuss your desired breast size and shape in detail. For South Bay patients, it’s wise to plan around seasonal schedules and avoid major commitments for at least a few weeks post-op. A calm, prepared environment supports the best recovery experience.
Will I lose nipple sensation after breast reduction?
Temporary changes in nipple sensitivity are common, but permanent loss is rare, especially when surgery is performed by a skilled specialist like Dr. Goldberg. She carefully preserves the nerves and blood supply during tissue removal and reshaping. Some South Bay patients report increased sensitivity, while others experience mild numbness that fades over several months. The degree of change depends on your anatomy, the extent of reduction, and surgical technique. Dr. Goldberg discusses this in detail during your consultation, ensuring you fully understand the possible outcomes and how they relate to your specific case.
Can I breastfeed after having breast reduction surgery?
It’s possible, but not guaranteed. Breast reduction may involve removing glandular tissue and ducts critical to milk production. Dr. Goldberg employs techniques that aim to preserve breastfeeding potential when desired, especially in younger South Bay patients. If future breastfeeding is important to you, it’s crucial to mention this during your consultation so she can adjust the approach accordingly. However, even with preservation efforts, lactation can be reduced. For patients who’ve completed their families or have no plans to breastfeed, this is usually not a concern. Weighing long-term goals is part of the planning process.
What makes Dr. Mytien Goldberg uniquely qualified for breast reduction surgery?
Dr. Goldberg is a board-certified plastic surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), with years of specialized experience in breast procedures. She combines surgical precision with an artistic eye to create results that are not only functional but beautifully proportioned. Her approach is patient-centered, with a strong emphasis on listening and customizing care. South Bay patients appreciate her thorough consultations, compassionate demeanor, and track record of natural-looking outcomes. She also stays current on the latest techniques and safety standards, ensuring optimal recovery and long-term satisfaction.
WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY IN BEVERLY HILLS?
If you are interested in learning more about breast reduction surgery or have any questions about the procedure, please call (310) 325-0310 or fill out our online contact form.