Say goodbye to chronic back, neck and shoulder pain that weighs you down. Bid farewell to the restrictions and discomfort that prevent you from fully enjoying your favorite activities. At the Gillian Institute, we understand the challenges that come with having large breasts, and we’re here to help.

Dr. Kimberly Short performs breast reduction in Indianapolis for women seeking lighter, more comfortable breasts. As a female plastic surgeon, Dr. Short understands the importance of achieving the optimal breast size and shape with an appropriate balance of proportions. Her personalized approach ensures that your results not only alleviate physical discomfort but also enhance your natural beauty and maintain your feminine contours.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Short today and take the first step toward a more comfortable and confident you.

Breast Reduction Quick Facts

Procedure Length:

3-5 hours

Anesthesia:

General

Downtime:

10-14 days

Cost:

$8,000 and up

About Breast Reduction

Excessively large breasts can be burdensome. You may find it difficult to do day-to-day activities, such as exercising, sleeping comfortably or finding clothing that fits well. You may experience physical discomfort, such as chronic pain or postural issues, or emotional distress and self-consciousness due to the attention your chest receives. Or you may simply dislike your breasts aesthetically.

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is designed to remove excess breast tissue, fat and skin. The procedure aims to achieve a more proportionate breast size that complements your body frame and alleviates the challenges that often accompany large breasts. Post-procedure, your breasts are smaller, lighter, firmer and more balanced with the rest of your body. Breast reduction is one of the most satisfying breast procedures available because it is life-changing for some patients.

Benefits of Breast Reduction

Breast reduction surgery offers a multitude of potential aesthetic and functional benefits:

  • Relief from chronic back, neck and shoulder pain
  • Improved posture and alignment
  • Freedom to participate in physical activities without limitations or discomfort
  • Expanded wardrobe choices in clothing, swimsuits and undergarments
  • More confidence and ease in social or intimate settings
  • Relief from skin irritations, rashes or infections in the breast creases
  • Improved comfort during sleep
  • Enhanced body proportions
  • Positive impact on emotional well-being, self-image and overall quality of life

Whatever your goals may be, if you are thinking about breast reduction, it’s a great time to sit down with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Dr. Short will meet with you in a consultation and empower you with the information needed to decide whether breast reduction is right for you.

“I had a breast reduction surgery with Dr. Kimberly Short back in 1999 (22 years ago!) before she was at the Gillian Institute, and I want to share with everyone how happy I still am to this day with the work she did. Five years after the surgery, I got pregnant, and was able to breast feed, which was super important to me. I also have feeling in both of my nipples and they’re still shaped beautifully. I think this really says something about this doctor’s level of skill and attention to detail.”

Shawn R.

Breast Reduction Candidates

You may wish to consider a breast reduction if you experience any of the following:

  • Large, heavy breasts causing back, shoulder and neck pain, poor posture, bra-strap indentations, and rashes under breast creases
  • Excessive breast size, which may decrease a sense of attractiveness and self-confidence
  • Excessive breast size, which may interfere with normal daily activities or with the ability to exercise

In addition to the specific considerations for breast reduction surgery, good candidates for plastic surgery in general typically exhibit the following qualities:

  • Good physical and mental health
  • Stable weight
  • A non-smoker or willing to quit smoking for a certain period before and after the surgery
  • Realistic expectations about the potential outcomes and limitations of plastic surgery

Dr. Short and her dedicated team at the Gillian Institute will conduct a thorough evaluation during your consultation to determine your candidacy for breast reduction surgery.

Your Breast Reduction Consultation

At the Gillian Institute, we believe in the importance of an open and supportive patient-doctor relationship. The consultation typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing ample time for Dr. Short to evaluate your goals, perform a detailed examination and discuss personalized recommendations. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and review before and after pictures to gain a better understanding of the breast reduction procedure and its potential outcomes.

Our patient coordinator will be available to address any financial or scheduling considerations, ensuring a seamless experience from consultation to postoperative care. Learn more about the consultation process here. We also offer virtual consultations for your convenience.

“Breast reduction is about more than just reducing breast size; it’s about restoring comfort, confidence and freedom. I believe in taking a personalized approach, understanding each patient’s unique goals and concerns, and tailoring the procedure to achieve natural-looking results. I want you to feel an elevated level of care from the first time you step through our doors to the end of our final follow-up. It’s a joy and privilege to witness the way breast reduction can truly change my patients’ lives.”

Dr. Kimberly Short

Breast Reduction Techniques

Dr. Short utilizes two breast reduction techniques. The most common and traditional approach is the SPAIR technique. Dr. Short also performs breast reduction using liposuction, often referred to as the scarless breast reduction.

Liposuction Breast Reduction

For the right candidate, Dr. Short can perform a liposuction-only breast reduction. This so-called scarless breast reduction technique involves two small 1.0 cm incisions located on either side of the breast crease.

Because the breast tissue is composed primarily of fatty tissue, liposuction can be used to remove this fatty tissue component and promote skin contraction after surgery. This is an ideal option in younger patients with a mild degree of low nipple position and a good skin envelope without significant skin stretch or stretch marks. This is also an effective option for patients seeking a reduction of one to two cup sizes.

On average, Dr. Short is able to remove 500-1000 cc from each breast. Due to a more conservative removal, skin contraction and mild elevation of the nipple are anticipated without the traditional incisions required for skin tightening and lifting of the nipple.

Patients who choose this approach to breast reduction typically have more limited recovery pain but are required to wear compression with an ace wrap following surgery for two to four weeks. The patient is also recommended to perform external ultrasound massage to the breasts following surgery to decrease areas of firmness and to reduce swelling.

Liposuction typically does not interfere with nipple sensation or the ability to breastfeed. The results of a scarless breast reduction are permanent.

Standard Breast Reduction

For most breast reductions, Dr. Short uses the SPAIR (short-scar periareolar inferior pedicle reduction) technique. This is a recent advancement in breast reduction techniques that can allow for a prettier breast by decreasing lateral (outer) fullness and creating a more natural looking breast shape, while also decreasing incisions on the breasts.

The SPAIR technique incision is around the nipple-areolar complex (pigmented region around the nipples) with a vertical incision down toward the breast crease (like a lollipop). Sometimes, the incision is also placed in the fold of the breast crease. The nipple-areolar complex is decreased in size and repositioned in a central location.

Dr. Short’s technique uses a permanent pursestring suture around the areola to maintain the diameter long term; this suture is the only permanent suture placed for a breast reduction surgery. The nipple-areolar complex is not removed but the skin is tightened around the breast mound. Excess breast tissue, fat and skin are then removed and the skin envelope is tightened. The breast reduction surgery is able to preserve nipple sensation and the ability to breastfeed following surgery.

The SPAIR technique is a revolutionary way to reshape and reduce the breast. It provides a more aesthetically pleasing breast shape (less boxy in appearance compared with the older “anchor” technique), limits the incisions on the breast (avoiding extending the incisions in the breast crease, referred to as the “anchor” incision), and decreases lateral breast fullness.

Planning the Surgery

Preparation

Patients who smoke are required to stop smoking a minimum of six months prior to surgery to ensure adequate healing and reduce the risk of complications related to decreased blood flow to the incisions after surgery. Smoking has been shown in the literature to reduce blood flow to the incisions by at least 30%, significantly contributing to complications.

Time Off Work

You will be asked to take an allotted amount of time off from regular activities after your breast reduction. Typically, patients require 10-14 days off work with lifting restrictions for the first 4-6 weeks, depending on the approach and amount of tissue removed.

Caregiver

You will need someone to take care of you for the first 24-48 hours following surgery. You are required to return to the office the day after surgery for a postoperative appointment.

What to Expect During Your Breast Reduction

While the specifics of your surgery will be tailored to your individual needs, the general process for a standard breast reduction involves the following steps:

  1. Anesthesia: You will be placed under either general anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
  2. Incision Placement: Dr. Short will carefully make incisions, following a pattern that allows for the optimal removal of excess tissue and reshaping of the breasts while minimizing visible scarring.
  3. Tissue Removal: Dr. Short will skillfully remove excess breast tissue, fat and skin to achieve a more proportionate breast size and contour. She will take great care to reshape the remaining breast tissue for a natural-looking outcome.
  4. Repositioning and Nipple Adjustment: If necessary, Dr. Short will reposition and/or resize the nipple and areola for a more balanced and youthful appearance. Dr. Short will ensure proper symmetry and proportion between the breasts.
  5. Incision Closure: Once the reshaping is complete, Dr. Short will close the incisions with sutures. Dr. Short may also place small drainage tubes to facilitate the removal of excess fluids during the initial stages of healing.

Breast reduction is performed on an outpatient basis and takes approximately three to five hours.

The Recovery Process

It is important to follow Dr. Short’s postoperative care instructions to ensure optimal healing and long-lasting results.

Following your surgery, you will have light dressings placed over the incision sites. You will be required to wear a surgical bra for two weeks to provide support and promote proper healing. If drains are not placed during surgery, you may shower after 72 hours. However, if drains are used, you will need to wait until the drains are removed in the office before showering. Typically, drains are removed after five to seven days.

It is normal to experience some degree of swelling, bruising and mild to moderate pain in the initial days following surgery. Taking your prescribed pain medication as directed will help alleviate discomfort.

Skin glue adhesive or Steri-Strips will be applied to the incisions. At your two-week post-op appointment, scar treatment options will be discussed. Extensive taping to the breast incisions is recommended for the first six to eight weeks to improve scarring. The scars will fade over time.

Light activities can typically be resumed after 14 days, but it is critical to avoid any strenuous activities or heavy lifting during the early stages of recovery. Aerobic activities should be avoided for at least six weeks to allow your body sufficient time to heal.

Remember, everyone’s recovery experience is unique. Dr. Short and her team will provide you with personalized guidance and support throughout the process.

Your Breast Reduction Results

It is not unusual to hear breast reduction described as “life-changing.” This transformative procedure does not just create smaller, firmer breasts with a more attractive contour. It can also alleviate back, shoulder and neck pain, posture issues, shoulder grooving and rashes under the breast creases. Many patients also find that clothing fits them better, physical activities are easier and they feel much more comfortable in their day-to-day lives.

Your results will emerge gradually. Initially, you may experience swelling and bruising that obscure the final outcome of your breast reduction. As your body heals, your breasts will settle into their new shape, and the improved contours will become more apparent.

While individual results may vary based on factors such as breast size, breast shape and your body’s unique healing process, most women experience significant improvements and are highly satisfied with their breast reduction outcomes.

“My whole experience with Dr. Short and staff from start to finish was nothing but amazing. Her knowledge, professionalism and bedside manner was impeccable, and I couldn’t be happier with my results.”

Lindsay N.

Why Dr. Short Is Indianapolis’ Top Breast Reduction Surgeon

Dr. Kimberly Short is a premier breast surgeon in Indianapolis. As a self-proclaimed perfectionist, her commitment to detail ensures that each breast reduction procedure is tailored to the individual. She is known for her personable approach that ensures patients feel heard, understood and supported throughout the entire process.

In addition to her excellence in patient care, Dr. Short has been selected as a speaker at the national plastic surgery meeting highlighting the innovations of her preferred breast reduction technique, the SPAIR technique. The SPAIR technique delivers less scarring and an improved breast shape compared to older, outdated methods. Dr. Short personally trained with the inventor and founder of the SPAIR technique in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Schedule a Consultation

Imagine a life with lighter, more comfortable breasts. At the Gillian Institute, we believe everyone deserves to live with confidence, and we are here to help you understand what’s possible with breast reduction surgery. Dr. Short is one of the most respected plastic surgeons in the Indianapolis area and has achieved acclaim for her consistently beautiful and natural results.

Complete our convenient online contact form or call us to get started. You can reach our Downtown office at 317-787-3260 or our Northside location at 317-913-3260.

Breast Reduction Frequently Asked Questions

Is breast reduction covered by insurance?

Breast reduction may be covered by insurance, but it depends on the specific circumstances and the policies of your insurance provider.

Insurance coverage typically only applies to medically necessary breast reduction. This refers to cases where large breasts cause physical symptoms such as chronic pain or postural issues. Insurance companies often require documentation from a physician, including medical records and photographs, to support the medical necessity of the procedure.

Aesthetic breast reduction, which is performed solely for cosmetic reasons, is usually not covered by insurance.

What will the scars look like after a breast reduction?

Scars are a byproduct of any surgical procedure, ​​but their visibility can vary depending on factors such as your healing process and the surgeon’s technique. Dr. Short employs advanced techniques to minimize scarring and provides guidance on scar care and scar treatment options to further minimize the appearance of scars over time. While scars are part of the surgical process, most breast reduction patients find them to be a worthwhile tradeoff for the tremendous benefits gained from the procedure.

Do I need a breast lift or a breast reduction?

A breast lift, or mastopexy, is designed to lift and reshape sagging breasts without removing a significant amount of breast tissue. It is suitable for women who are primarily concerned about breast ptosis (drooping) and desire a more youthful appearance.

On the other hand, a breast reduction involves the removal of excess breast tissue, fat and skin. It is intended for women with excessively large breasts who desire a more proportionate breast size and relief from associated symptoms and limitations.

During your consultation, Dr. Short will evaluate your concerns and goals to determine which procedure is most appropriate for you. She will provide personalized recommendations to help you achieve the results you desire, whether it be a breast lift, breast reduction or a combination of both.

How much does a breast reduction cost in Indiana?

At the Gillian Institute, the price for a breast reduction starts at $8,000. Dr. Short and her team believe in transparency when it comes to pricing, ensuring that patients have a clear understanding of the costs involved. During your consultation, Dr. Short will evaluate your individual needs and provide you with a personalized breast reduction quote based on your unique circumstances.

We offer financing options to help make your breast reduction more affordable. For more information on pricing and to explore financing options, we encourage you to schedule a consultation.

Will a breast reduction affect my ability to breastfeed?

Dr. Short’s breast reduction techniques minimize the potential for disruption of the milk ducts, thereby preserving breastfeeding function as much as possible. While some women may experience challenges or a reduced milk supply after breast reduction, most do not. If you plan to have children after your procedure, discuss your desire to breastfeed with Dr. Short during your consultation.

Will a breast reduction affect my nipple sensation?

During breast reduction surgery, the nipple and areola may be repositioned. These adjustments can affect the nerves responsible for nipple sensation, leading to temporary or permanent changes. With Dr. Short’s breast reduction techniques, most women retain normal nipple sensation.

What procedures can enhance my breast reduction?

Breast reduction is often combined with other procedures to enhance the overall results and achieve a more balanced appearance. Some complementary procedures that are frequently performed alongside breast reduction include: areola reduction, nipple correction, breast lift, liposuction, tummy tuck and mommy makeover.