Breast Reduction in Gig Harbor, WA
Achieve a lighter, more proportionate bustline with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Melissa Larsen, serving Gig Harbor, Tacoma, and the greater Puget Sound area.
Breast Reduction
Breast reduction, or reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to reduce breast size and reshape the breasts into a lighter, more proportionate contour. Patients who pursue breast reduction often describe it as one of the most life-changing procedures they've had — relieving physical discomfort, improving posture, and allowing them to feel more comfortable and confident in their body and clothing.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Breast reduction may be appropriate for patients who:
Are bothered by the size, weight, or appearance of their breasts
Experience discomfort or self-consciousness related to breast size
Have difficulty finding clothing or bras that fit comfortably
Have breasts that feel disproportionate to their overall frame
Are at a stable weight and in good overall health
Are not planning pregnancies in the near future
Have realistic expectations about size, shape, and scarring
During consultation, Dr. Larsen evaluates your breast anatomy, skin quality, and aesthetic goals to determine the most appropriate technique and incision pattern for your individual case.
Procedure Overview
Breast reduction surgery is performed at an accredited outpatient surgical facility.
In general:
Surgery typically takes 2–4 hours
Performed under general anesthesia
Excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are removed
The breast is reshaped and the nipple and areola are repositioned to a natural, more elevated position
Incision pattern is selected based on breast size and the degree of reduction — options range from a vertical incision to an anchor-shaped incision; Dr. Larsen will recommend the approach that achieves the best result for your anatomy
Liposuction may be used alongside tissue removal to refine the contour in some cases
Patients return home the same day.
Recovery
Most patients find breast reduction recovery very manageable. Most patients follow a general pattern:
Week 1 Swelling, bruising, and tightness are normal. A surgical bra is worn for support. Light activity around the home is comfortable for most patients within a few days.
Weeks 1–2 Swelling and bruising gradually improve. Most patients return to desk work. Avoid lifting, pushing, or pulling.
Weeks 3–4 Energy and comfort continue to improve. Light lower body exercise may resume as directed by Dr. Larsen.
Week 6+ Most normal activities and workouts can fully resume. Dr. Larsen monitors healing at follow-up visits throughout recovery.
Results
Breast reduction delivers an immediate and noticeable change in breast size, shape, and overall proportion.
Initial swelling decreases over several weeks
Final breast shape settles gradually over 3–6 months
Scars fade considerably over 12–18 months and are positioned within the natural breast contour
Many patients notice immediate relief from the physical discomfort associated with large breasts, along with improved ease of movement and greater confidence in clothing and daily life
Maintaining a stable weight and avoiding future pregnancy helps preserve results long term.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much smaller will my breasts be? During consultation, Dr. Larsen works with you to determine a target size that achieves better proportion with your frame and meets your aesthetic goals. The final result depends on your anatomy and the amount of tissue that can safely be removed.
Will I lose nipple sensation? Some temporary change in nipple or breast sensation is common following reduction. Permanent changes in sensation are possible but uncommon. Dr. Larsen will discuss this in detail during your consultation.
How noticeable will the scars be? Scarring depends on the incision technique used. Dr. Larsen selects the least extensive approach that achieves your desired result, and incisions are positioned within the natural breast contour. Scars typically fade significantly over 12–18 months.
Can I have a breast reduction combined with other procedures? Yes. Breast reduction is sometimes combined with other body contouring procedures. Dr. Larsen will advise on what can be safely combined during your consultation.
What does breast reduction cost? Pricing depends on your individual anatomy and the surgical technique required. Financing options are available — learn more here.
Meet Dr. Melissa Larsen, MD
Dr. Melissa Larsen is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon serving patients in Gig Harbor and the greater Tacoma area. She is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and completed her six-year Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Integrated Residency at Oregon Health & Science University. Dr. Larsen is committed to personalized care that achieves natural, balanced results.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Larsen to discuss your goals, review your options, and find out if breast reduction is right for you.