How you prepare

Your plastic surgeon will likely:

• Evaluate your medical history and overall health
• Discuss your expectations for breast size and appearance after the surgery
• Provide a detailed description of the procedure and its risks and benefits, including likely scarring and possible loss of sensation
• Examine and measure your breasts
• Take photographs of your breasts for your medical record
• Explain the type of anesthesia used during surgery

Before breast reduction surgery, you might also be asked to:

• Complete various lab tests
• Get a baseline mammogram
• Stop smoking for a certain period of time before and after surgery
• Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements, to control bleeding during surgery

Ask your surgeon whether you'll be able to go home the day of the surgery or whether you'll need to spend a night in the hospital. Arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery or when you leave the hospital.