Living with overly large breasts can cause persistent back, neck, and shoulder pain, limit physical activity, and affect confidence. If you’re seeking breast reduction in Pittsburgh, Golla Center offers personalized, medically sound solutions designed to restore comfort and proportion.
At Golla Center for Plastic Surgery, patients receive board-certified expertise, advanced techniques, and compassionate care focused on both physical relief and natural-looking results. Schedule a consultation today to explore whether breast reduction surgery is right for you.
What Is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure that removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to create a breast size that is better proportioned to the body. While many patients seek breast reduction for cosmetic reasons, the procedure is often medically necessary due to chronic pain, posture issues, or skin irritation caused by heavy breasts.
For patients considering breast reduction surgery in Pittsburgh, this procedure can provide both functional relief and aesthetic improvement. In addition to reducing breast volume, the surgery reshapes and lifts the breasts for a more balanced and natural appearance. Each treatment plan at Golla Center is tailored to the patient’s anatomy, symptoms, and long-term goals.
Common Symptoms That Indicate You Need a Breast Reduction
Large, heavy breasts can affect daily life in many ways. You may be a good candidate for breast reduction if you experience:
- Chronic neck, shoulder, or upper-back pain
- Deep bra strap grooves on the shoulders
- Poor posture or spinal strain
- Skin irritation or rashes beneath the breasts
- Difficulty exercising or participating in physical activities
- Trouble finding properly fitting clothing or bras
- Self-consciousness or emotional discomfort related to breast size
Many patients pursue breast reduction in Pittsburgh after years of managing these symptoms without lasting relief.
Breast Reduction Surgery in Pittsburgh – What to Expect
Your breast reduction journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. Dr. Golla carefully evaluates your anatomy, medical history, symptoms, and desired outcome to create a personalized surgical plan.
During surgery, excess tissue, fat, and skin are removed using carefully selected incision techniques. The remaining breast tissue is reshaped, and the nipples are repositioned for a natural contour. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes several hours, depending on the amount of reduction needed.
We prioritize safety, symmetry, and long-term comfort while aiming for results that look natural and proportional.
Breast Reduction vs. Breast Lift
While both procedures improve breast appearance, breast reduction and breast lift address different concerns and involve distinct surgical approaches. Understanding the key differences helps you determine which procedure aligns with your needs.
| Aspect | Breast Reduction | Breast Lift |
| Primary Goal | Remove excess tissue to reduce size and weight | Reshape and elevate existing breast tissue |
| Best For | Large, heavy breasts cause physical symptoms | Sagging breasts with satisfactory size |
| Tissue Removal | Significant removal of tissue, fat, and skin | Removal of excess skin only |
| Cup Size Change | Typically decreases by 1-3+ cup sizes | Minimal to no change in cup size |
| Pain Relief | Addresses back, neck, and shoulder pain | Does not reduce physical discomfort from weight |
| Recovery Time | 2-4 weeks for light activities | 1-2 weeks for light activities |
| Procedure Length | 2-4 hours | 1-3 hours |
Before & After Photos: Results from Pittsburgh Patients
Breast Reduction Success Stories
Our patients’ experiences speak for themselves. Here are two reviews from individuals who underwent the surgery with Dr. Golla:
I just had a breast reduction with Dr. Golla last week. The office manager, Rose, was a superstar. She helped with the insurance and appeal process and kept up with my case, even as I went through another surgery prior to the reduction. Dr. Golla was professional and friendly. Surgery and recovery have gone well so far!
Recovery Timeline: What to Expect Week by WeekÂ
| Recovery Phase | What to Expect |
| First 48 Hours | Swelling, soreness, and tightness are normal. Pain is typically well-managed with prescribed medication. A surgical support bra is worn continuously. Rest is essential. |
| Week 1 | Swelling and bruising gradually improve. Light walking is encouraged, but lifting and strenuous activity should be avoided. Most patients begin feeling more comfortable by the end of the week. |
| Weeks 2–3 | Many patients return to desk work and daily routines. Incisions continue healing, and discomfort significantly decreases. Driving is usually permitted once pain medication is no longer needed. |
| Weeks 4–6 | Swelling continues to subside. Light exercise may resume with approval. Breast shape begins to settle into a more natural contour. |
| After 6 Weeks | Most activity restrictions are lifted. Scars continue to fade over time, and final results gradually refine over the next few months. |
Why Pittsburgh Patients Choose Golla Center for Breast Reduction
Patients choose Dr. Dinikar Golla for breast reduction surgery because of his commitment to safety, precision, and individualized care. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Golla brings extensive experience in breast procedures and a patient-centered approach.
Golla Center for Plastic Surgery serves patients throughout the Pittsburgh area, offering advanced techniques, transparent guidance, and dedicated support throughout the surgical process.
Schedule Your Breast Reduction Consultation in Pittsburgh
If large breasts are affecting your comfort, mobility, or confidence, breast reduction surgery may offer lasting relief. Contact Golla Center for Plastic Surgery today to schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Dinikar Golla and take the next step toward improved comfort and balance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Reduction Surgery
How much does breast reduction cost in Pittsburgh?
Cost varies based on breast size, technique, and whether insurance applies. For self-pay patients, prices typically range from $6,500 to $9,500 or more in the Pittsburgh area. Some patients qualify for insurance coverage when the procedure is medically necessary. A consultation is required for accurate pricing and coverage evaluation.
How much tissue is typically removed?
Most patients have 1 to 3 pounds of tissue removed per breast, though some require more. The exact amount depends on your starting size, body proportions, and goals. Dr. Golla focuses on achieving balance, not just a specific cup size, so removal is tailored to your frame. During your exam, he’ll estimate tissue volume and discuss realistic outcomes.
Will breast reduction leave scars?
Yes, breast reduction does result in scars, though their appearance varies by technique and individual healing. Incisions typically follow an anchor pattern around the areola, vertically down, and along the breast crease. Scars are most noticeable initially but fade significantly over 12 to 18 months.
Can breast reduction relieve back and neck pain?
Absolutely. In fact, chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain are among the most common reasons insurance approves the procedure. By reducing breast weight, the strain on your spine and trapezius muscles is dramatically lessened. Many patients report noticeable pain relief within weeks and long-term freedom from reliance on pain medication or chiropractic visits.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients return to desk work within 1–2 weeks and resume full physical activity by 6 weeks. Initial swelling and soreness peak in the first 48 hours but improve quickly. Full healing, including softening of scars and final breast shape, takes 3–6 months, but the functional benefits (less pain, better posture) are often immediate.
Will I be able to breastfeed after surgery?
Many women can breastfeed after breast reduction, but it’s not guaranteed. The ability depends on how much glandular tissue is preserved and whether milk ducts remain connected. If future breastfeeding is important to you, discuss this during your consultation. Dr. Golla uses techniques that prioritize duct and nerve preservation whenever possible, especially for younger patients.
Can breast reduction be combined with a breast lift?
Yes, and in most cases, it already is. Because removing excess tissue naturally causes the breast to sag less, nearly all breast reductions include a lift component. The nipple-areola complex is repositioned higher on the chest for a more youthful contour. A standalone lift (without size reduction) is only needed if you’re happy with your breast volume but want to correct drooping.
How long do breast reduction results last?
Results are long-lasting, especially with stable weight and healthy lifestyle habits. Aging and hormonal changes may affect breast appearance over time.
