Introduction

Breast volume reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is a life - changing procedure for many individuals in New York City. Whether it's to alleviate physical discomfort caused by overly large breasts, such as back and neck pain, or to boost self - confidence, patients are on the lookout for the best hospitals and surgeons. In this comprehensive article, we'll explore the top hospitals and surgeons in New York City for breast volume reduction surgery, discuss the surgery itself, and provide other important information that prospective patients should know.

Best Doctors for Breast Reduction Surgery in New York City

Doctor Profiles and Ratings

Healthgrades has compiled a list of doctors who perform breast reduction in New York. There are a total of 1851 doctors in the region, with an average rating of 4.3 stars. Here are some of the highly - rated doctors:

Specialized Plastic Surgeons

There are also many specialized plastic surgeons who have excellent reputations in breast reduction surgery:

• Dr. Francesco Gargano, MD, PhD: Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the European Board of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, he has extensive global training. His practice emphasizes individualized care, building trust, and providing high - quality patient care. His facility is well - equipped, similar to a hospital, and he has a strong anesthesia and nursing support team. He is known for making patients more confident in their appearance and improving their relationships through physical transformation.
• Dr. Michelle Zweifler, MD: A board - certified plastic surgeon and general surgeon. She specializes in facial rejuvenation as well as breast and body contouring. She has received numerous honors and awards during her medical training. Her professional papers have been published in scientific journals, and she is a member of many professional societies. She has also been featured in various media outlets and is included in Castle Connolly's America's Cosmetic Doctors and Dentists.
• Dr. George Lefkovits, MD: Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology. He has extensive experience in plastic and cosmetic surgery, having been in private practice in New York since 1981. He only performs safe and effective procedures to help patients reach their cosmetic goals and has published in the plastic surgery literature and lectured at national and state meetings.

Top Hospitals for Breast Reduction Surgery in New York City

Columbia University Irving Medical Center

New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center is a top - ranked hospital. It was named the top hospital in New York and ranked 7th in the nation by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals. It was recognized for its excellence in 14 adult specialties and 8 children’s specialties. In terms of surgical excellence, it has highly - ranked adult specialties such as heart surgery, GI surgery, and lung surgery, and pediatric specialties like pediatric heart surgery, pediatric GI surgery, and pediatric lung surgery. Its national ranking in cancer care also reflects the high - quality surgical oncology expertise in areas like breast surgery.

Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital

Many renowned plastic surgeons, like Dr. Michelle Zweifler, are on the staff at this hospital. It provides a high - standard medical environment for various plastic surgeries, including breast reduction. The hospital has the necessary facilities and experienced medical teams to ensure the safety and success of the surgery.

Breast Reduction Surgery: An Overview

What is Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure that reduces the size of the breasts by removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin. It is often sought by individuals who suffer from breast hypertrophy, a condition where the breasts are overly large, which can cause physical and emotional distress such as back and neck pain, shoulder grooving, and self - consciousness.

Benefits of Breast Reduction Surgery

1. Physical Relief: Removes the excess weight of the breasts, which helps alleviate chronic neck and back pain and improves posture. Many women with large breasts experience muscle strain in their neck and shoulders, and breast reduction can significantly reduce this discomfort.
2. Boost in Body Confidence: Patients often report increased self - esteem and confidence after the surgery. They can choose from a wider range of clothing options, move and exercise more easily, and participate in activities they may have previously avoided.
3. Reduced Irritation: Improves the fit of bras and clothing, reducing irritation and rubbing of the skin under the breasts. This can also lead to better sleep quality and easier participation in sports and exercise.

Candidates for Breast Reduction Surgery

The most suitable candidates for breast reduction surgery are non - smokers, in good overall health, within an acceptable weight range, and have no serious heart conditions or undiagnosed breast lumps. Nicotine severely inhibits the body's ability to heal and increases the likelihood of developing an infection, so smokers need to quit for 4 - 6 weeks before and after the procedure.

The Surgical Process

Pre - operative Preparation

Patients are provided with detailed preoperative instructions. These may include discontinuing certain medications, supplements, or blood thinners that could interfere with the surgery or affect recovery. They must also cease using nicotine products in the weeks leading up to the surgery and remain nicotine - free throughout the recovery period. Filling prescriptions for pain medication and antibiotics in advance, coordinating a ride home and an escort if sedation or general anesthesia will be used, and arranging time off from work and social commitments are also essential steps.

The Surgery Itself

Most breast reduction surgeries are performed under general anesthesia. There are different incision techniques. For example, the circumvertical (lollipop) technique involves a periareolar incision around the areola plus a vertical incision from the areola to the inframammary fold. The anchor (wise pattern) technique combines the circumvertical incision with an additional incision hidden in the crease of the inframammary fold underneath the breast. The surgeon removes excess fat, breast tissue, and extra skin, and may also perform liposuction of the armpit area for a more natural - looking result. The areola may be repositioned and reduced in size. The procedure typically lasts about 2 - 4 hours, depending on the surgical technique and the amount of breast tissue removed.

Post - operative Recovery

After the surgery, patients are fitted with a specialty surgical bra to provide support and minimize stress on the incisions. Mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal in the first few days. Most patients can resume light activity within a few days and return to work within two weeks, but they should avoid strenuous physical activity and heavy lifting for at least four to six weeks. The surgeon may prescribe pain medication, and in some cases, surgical drains may be placed to drain excess fluid. Stitches are usually removed after one week, and patients are recommended to wear a post - surgical bra for about a month.

Cost and Insurance

Cost Factors

The cost of breast reduction surgery in New York City depends on various factors, including the extent of the surgical procedure, anesthesia, and other related expenses. The amount of breast tissue to be removed, the complexity of the surgery, and the surgeon's experience all play a role in determining the cost.

Insurance Coverage

The possibility of insurance coverage for breast reduction surgery varies. If a patient can document health issues related to having overly large breasts, such as shoulder and back pain, it may be possible to receive partial or full health insurance compensation for the procedure. Surgeons' offices can often assist patients in determining if they qualify and guide them through the insurance approval process.

Risks and Complications

While breast reduction surgery is generally safe when performed by a board - certified plastic surgeon, there are still some risks involved:

• Wound Breakdown: This can occur if the incisions do not heal properly, increasing the risk of infection.
• Alterations in Nipple or Breast Sensation: There may be temporary or, in rare cases, long - term changes in nipple or breast sensation.
• Hypertrophic, Raised Scarring: Some individuals may be prone to developing more prominent scars.
• Bleeding or Hematoma Formation: Excessive bleeding during or after the surgery can lead to the formation of a hematoma.
• Infection of the Incision Sites: This can delay the healing process and may require additional treatment.
• Remaining Breast Asymmetry: Small differences in breast shape or size may occur, and in some cases, revision surgery may be required.
• Fat Necrosis: The death of fat cells in the breast tissue, which can cause lumps and may require further evaluation.

Conclusion

In 2025, New York City offers a wide range of excellent hospitals and highly - skilled surgeons for breast volume reduction surgery. Patients considering this procedure have the opportunity to choose from a variety of experienced professionals who can provide personalized care. The surgery can bring significant physical and emotional benefits, but it's important for patients to be well - informed about the surgical process, recovery, costs, and potential risks. By doing thorough research and having in - depth consultations with surgeons, patients can make the best decisions for their health and well - being.

If you're considering breast volume reduction surgery in New York City, we encourage you to reach out to the hospitals and surgeons mentioned in this article. Schedule consultations, ask questions, and gather as much information as possible. Share this article with others who may be interested in this topic to help them make more informed decisions.