About Breast Reduction in Denver
For some women, large breasts can cause discomfort when exercising or even performing daily activities. Breast reduction surgery aims to alleviate this by removing excess breast tissue and skin to create smaller, more proportionate breasts. A breast reduction can also help to relieve shoulder pain, improve posture and eliminate skin irritations that can occur near bra strap indentations or below the breast folds.
When looking for breast reduction surgery near you in Denver, you want the best plastic surgeon to help you meet your goals. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Francesco Campanile specializes in breast reduction surgery and other body contouring procedures and has been practicing plastic surgery since 1997.
Many women seeking a breast reduction know they’d like smaller breasts but don’t know what size is best or what they’ll look like afterwards. Dr. Campanile understands these concerns and takes the time to discuss your options with you. His post-surgical breast size recommendations are made based on a detailed physical examination as well as an understanding of your preferences, goals and lifestyle.
Top 3
Reasons To
Choose Us
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Dr. Francesco Campanile offers newer techniques such as the lollipop incision to reduce scarring while still ensuring the best possible outcome.
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A board-certified plastic surgeon with more than two decades of proven experience, Dr. Campanile stays up to date with the latest innovations in breast surgery.
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Campanile works closely with each woman to understand her specific needs and customizes every breast reduction to deliver beautiful results.
Request a Consultation
The first step in achieving your ideal figure is scheduling your consultation with Dr. Campanile. Contact us today to get started! We look forward to helping you feel great about your body.
Real Patient Photos
View our gallery of before and after photos of real breast reduction patients whom Dr. Campanile has been able to help.
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Benefits of Breast Reduction Surgery
There are many physical and emotional reasons why women choose to get a breast reduction:
- Relief from neck, shoulder and back pain. By reducing excess breast weight, a breast reduction can ease chronic strain on the neck, shoulders and back, helping you to feel more comfortable day to day.
- Improved comfort during exercise. Similarly, with smaller, lighter breasts, activities like jogging, swimming and playing sports often become much more comfortable and enjoyable.
- Reduced chafing and skin irritation. Eliminating excess tissue helps to prevent painful rubbing and chafing under bra straps or beneath the breasts.
- Boosted confidence and self-image. Many women enjoy a newfound sense of self-confidence following breast reduction surgery.
- A more proportionate, balanced figure. Breast reduction can enhance overall body symmetry, giving you a natural, well-balanced silhouette.
- Better-fitting clothing. Many of our Denver breast reduction patients tell us that finding cute clothing that fits well is much easier and more enjoyable following their procedure.
Ideal Candidates for Breast Reduction
The best candidates for breast reduction surgery are in good physical and mental health, do not smoke and have realistic expectations for their results. Women often seek breast reduction when overly large breasts cause physical pain or discomfort and/or feelings of self-consciousness.
If you have back pain, skin chafing or are otherwise frustrated by complications related to your breast size, you may be a good candidate for breast reduction.
Breast Reduction Techniques
Dr. Campanile is experienced and highly skilled at performing the most advanced breast reduction techniques and offers several surgical options to his Denver patients. The best technique for you will depend on your natural anatomy and specific needs. The most common breast reduction techniques include:
- The lollipop, or vertical incision. This approach involves an incision around the areola and a vertical line down to the breast crease, resembling a “lollipop” shape. It’s often used for moderate breast reductions and provides a good balance between reshaping the breast and minimizing scarring.
- The anchor, or inverted-T incision. This method adds a horizontal incision along the breast crease to the lollipop pattern, creating an anchor or upside-down “T” shape. Dr. Campanile may recommend this method for larger reductions or when significant reshaping is needed.
- A “scarless breast reduction using liposuction. For women who need only a minor reduction of breast tissue and do not require the removal or tightening of excess skin, Dr. Campanile may recommend a “scarless” breast reduction, which is performed using liposuction.
During your consultation, Dr. Campanile will explain these surgical techniques in more detail and will also let you know which one he recommends for your personalized breast reduction and why.
Your Breast Reduction Procedure
A breast reduction removes breast tissue, skin and excess fat to reshape the breasts for better balance and increased comfort. In addition to reducing breast size, the procedure also lifts the breasts. This helps to improve the breast position and contour, similar to what’s achieved during a breast lift. Dr. Campanile is careful to minimize the number of incisions whenever possible for a flattering, aesthetic final result.
Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes anywhere from 2 to 5 hours to complete, depending on the extent of the procedure.
To begin breast reduction surgery, Dr. Campanile makes a lollipop or anchor-shaped incision on the lower part of the breast near the breast crease and around the areola. Through this incision, he removes excess tissue. Because the breast volume is decreased, excess skin also needs to be removed. In many cases, the nipple and areola are repositioned higher on the breast.
Once your procedure is complete, you will be moved to recovery and monitored until being cleared to go home. You will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least the first 24 hours.
Breast Reduction with Other Procedures
Breast reduction surgery virtually always includes a breast lift, since excess skin will need to be removed and tightened. However, some women also choose to include other procedures, such as a tummy tuck or liposuction, with breast reduction. This customized combination procedure, often referred to as a mommy makeover, can help women address multiple cosmetic concerns in a single surgery with a single recovery period.
If you are considering multiple plastic surgery procedures, let Dr. Campanile know your goals during your consultation. He can help to guide you through the benefits and risks of each one and create a personalized treatment plan that best meets your unique goals.
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Dr. Francesco Campanile
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Preparing for Breast Reduction
Properly preparing for your procedure is one of the best things you can do to achieve a stress-free breast reduction from our Denver plastic surgery office. Patients should be proactive regarding their own health and informed about their surgical options. This relates not only to the surgery, but also to your recovery. This breast reduction guide will give you tips on the best questions to ask during your initial consultation, ideas for what to look for in a surgeon, and help you prepare yourself for your surgery and the healing process.
- At Your Consultation
At Your Consultation
Finding a top-notch plastic surgeon near you for your breast reduction is an important first step to ensuring ideal results. One of the best ways to narrow down your choices is by having a list of questions prepared to ask likely candidates. These may be asked during your initial consultation:- What is your educational background, and what are your credentials?
- What types of certifications do you hold?
- How long has your practice been active?
- What is your complication rate for breast reductions?
- What is the average number of breast reductions your practice performs in a year?
- May I see before and after breast reduction photos of women with similar body types to mine?
- Personal Considerations
Personal Considerations
- Arrange transportation both to and from your surgery, and make sure you’ll have someone near you around the clock for the first 24 hours.
- Rearrange any important meetings or deadlines that fall during your recovery, so you can just focus on taking care of you.
- Prepare a few meals ahead of time and freeze them to make eating well as hassle-free as possible.
- Line up support from friends or family to help around the house in case you don’t feel up to it.
- Physical Considerations
Physical Considerations
- Let Dr. Campanile know if you’re taking supplements, vitamins or prescription medications.
- Smoking slows the healing process and may bring needless complications to the surgery. Smokers should quit at least two weeks prior to their appointment, and not start up again until at least two weeks after the surgery.
- Wash with an antimicrobial soap before surgery to minimize infection risks, and avoid application of body lotions or makeup the day of your appointment.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing that’s easy to get on and off. For a breast reduction, a button-up shirt will be easier to manage than something that pulls on over your head.
At Your Consultation:
During your breast reduction consultation, Dr. Campanile will take the time to understand your goals, concerns and medical history. He will perform a thorough physical examination, assessing breast size, shape, skin quality and overall body proportions to determine the most appropriate surgical approach.
Dr. Campanile will discuss the different techniques available and explain which method may best suit your desired results. He will also review what to expect before, during and after surgery, including recovery time, scar placement and potential risks or complications.
Your consultation is also an opportunity to ask questions, address any concerns you might have and ensure you have realistic expectations.
Personal Considerations:
Some key personal things you can do to start preparing for your breast reduction include:
- Arrange for someone to take you to and from your surgery, and make sure you’ll have someone near you around the clock for the first 24 hours.
- Rearrange any important meetings or deadlines that fall during your recovery, so you can just focus on taking care of you.
- Prepare a few meals ahead of time and freeze them to make eating well as hassle-free as possible.
- Line up support from friends or family to help around the house in case you don’t feel up to it.
Physical Considerations:
On a physical and medical level, add these items to your to-do list prior to your procedure:
- Let Dr. Campanile know if you’re taking supplements, vitamins or prescription medications.
- Smokers should quit at least two weeks prior to their appointment, and not start up again until at least two weeks after the surgery, since smoking slows the healing process and can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery.
- The morning of your procedure, wash with an antimicrobial soap to minimize infection risks, and do not apply any body lotions, deodorant or makeup the day of your appointment.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing that’s easy to get on and off. For a breast reduction, a button-up shirt will be easier to manage than something that pulls on over your head.
Recovery after Breast Reduction
Most women take a week to 10 days off work and other obligations before resuming normal daily activities. However, you will need to avoid more strenuous physical activities and exercise for 3 to 4 weeks or until given the green light by Dr. Campanile. Some scarring will remain after the procedure but should fade over time with proper post-surgical care.
The first few days after your surgery are generally the most challenging. Most patients feel tired and sore initially. During this time, it’s important to remember that this stage will pass quickly if you give your body lots of rest and time for recovery. A special support bra may be needed to promote initial healing and reduce swelling. Follow this and all other post-op instructions as closely as possible to optimize your body’s healing process.
If you have any questions about preparing for your procedure or during recovery, please do not hesitate to call our Denver office at 303-345-7476.
The Best Breast Reduction Results
Directly after breast reduction surgery, you should notice an immediate change in breast size and shape. However, initial results are hidden by swelling and bruising, which are normal in the first few weeks. Most swelling begins to subside within 2 to 4 weeks, but it can take several months for the breasts to fully settle into their new position.
It can take 3 to 6 months for final breast reduction results to fully develop. It can take a year or more for scars to fully mature, so be patient as they continue to improve and fade over time.
Patients often find that their breasts look and feel lighter, more proportionate and more comfortable, with a more lifted and natural contour. Maintaining a stable weight and following post-op care instructions can help to optimize and prolong the results.
Request a consultation online to learn more about breast reduction. And if you haven’t already, be sure to view our breast reduction before and after photos to see the results Dr. Campanile has achieved for his patients. We’re here for you every step of the way and look forward to meeting with you to help you look your best.
Breast Reduction FAQs
How much does breast reduction surgery cost in Denver?
The exact cost of your Denver breast reduction procedure will depend on the details of your surgery. More extensive procedures that combine multiple surgeries into one will generally cost more than a “scarless” breast reduction with liposuction, for example. Because of this, we will be able to provide you with a more accurate breast reduction cost estimate at the time of your consultation. We are also happy to discuss available financing options.
Is breast reduction surgery covered by insurance?
In cases where breast reduction surgery is deemed medically necessary – such as to address chronic neck, back, or shoulder pain or skin irritation caused by large breasts – it may be covered by insurance. Coverage typically requires documentation from your doctor.
However, if your breast reduction is considered a cosmetic procedure only, most insurance plans will not provide coverage. For more information about your specific health insurance coverage, call the number listed on the back of your insurance card.
What size breasts qualify for a reduction?
There is no strict size requirement for breast reduction, as candidacy is based on symptoms and physical impact rather than cup size alone. Generally, women experiencing pain, discomfort or functional limitations from overly large breasts may qualify, regardless of their exact breast measurements.
What is the ideal weight for a breast reduction?
There isn’t a specific “best” weight for breast reduction, but candidates should be at a stable, healthy weight to ensure optimal outcomes and recovery. Significant weight fluctuations before or after surgery can affect results, so Dr. Campanile recommends maintaining a stable weight both before and after the procedure.
Will I be able to breastfeed after breast reduction surgery?
Breastfeeding after breast reduction can be possible, but there can be some risks of reduced milk production or function. If the ability to breastfeed is important to you, let Dr. Campanile know during your consultation so that he can take this into account when creating a customized breast reduction plan for you.
Will I have scars after a breast reduction?
There is no way to perform a breast reduction without leaving a scar. However, the scars may be hidden by clothing and even bikinis. Patients should be able to wear very low-cut clothing without any scar showing. Over time, scars typically fade to become barely noticeable. Most women consider breast reduction scars to be minimal compared to the trade-off of feeling positive about their results.
Are there risks involved with breast reduction?
There are always risks before any major surgery, although complications due to breast reduction are relatively low. For example, nipple sensation is often lost temporarily following surgery, although in some rare cases this loss of sensation may be permanent. Dr. Campanile will let you know of any possible complications that could arise during or after your breast reduction.
How long will my breast reduction results last?
Fat cells and breast tissue that are removed during breast reduction surgery cannot grow back. However, if you gain weight following the procedure, your breasts may grow in size and change shape. Staying at a healthy weight and exercising regularly are important following surgery. We also encourage our patients to wear highly supportive bras to retain the best possible breast shape.
Hot Topics in Breast Reduction
- Can You Prevent Breast Reduction Scars? Learn how to reduce and manage scarring after breast reduction surgery with proven techniques and post-op care tips.
- 3 Times Breast Enhancement Could Help Your Health: See some of the most common health-related reasons why women opt for breast reduction surgery.
- 3 Signs You Could Benefit from a Breast Reduction: Not sure if a breast reduction could be right for you? Take a look at some of the biggest benefits of this procedure.
Written By: Dr. Francesco Campanile
Dr. Francesco Campanile is a board-certified plastic surgeon practicing plastic surgery since 1997. He specializes exclusively in body contouring and breast enhancement procedures, including the innovative C.L.A.S.S. tummy tuck™ technique developed at his Denver clinic.
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Last Reviewed: October 8th, 2025
