October 3, 2025

Breast Reduction Revision Surgery Cost: A Complete Guide

Sanam Zahedi, MD Plastic Surgeon

Category:Breast Reduction

Many women choose a breast reduction procedure to relieve pain or correct complications related to the shape and size of their breasts. Later on, some need a second operation. Breast reduction revision may involve correcting the appearance of scars, correcting breast asymmetry, or further adjusting breast volume.

Any other shape irregularities may be corrected with a breast reduction revision as well. Each step comes with a price. The cost of breast revision can vary depending on the procedure, the plastic surgeon, the facility, and the use of anesthesia. Items like post-surgical bras and other related expenses also add up.

Table of Contents

About Breast Reduction Revision Surgery

Breast reduction revision is done when the original results change or cause problems. Perhaps the breasts no longer sit correctly after the initial reduction. Maybe one shifted. Sometimes there’s pain from contracting scar tissue.

The revision may be suggested by patients who want areola revision, further size adjustments, or want other changes related to the results of the initial breast reduction. Some people also get a breast lift at the same time. Others choose fat grafting to smooth things out or rebuild lost volume.

It’s not always a straightforward procedure. Everybody heals differently. Skin stretches and tissue settles, which can create issues for patients. That’s why these surgeries take more planning than the first time around.

When You Might Need Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery is often considered by patients who have large, heavy breasts that interfere with their lives. Many people want relief from physical discomfort, mobility issues, or emotional distress caused by breasts that are too large for their frame.

You may need a breast reduction if you’re dealing with ongoing neck, shoulder, or back pain caused by breast weight. Skin irritation beneath the breast fold or deep grooves from bra straps are also common reasons.

Some people find that large breasts make it difficult to exercise or move comfortably. Others feel frustrated with how clothing fits or feel self-conscious about their appearance.

Breast size also affects posture and may lead to long-term spinal issues. Uneven breasts may create a sense of imbalance that adds additional physical or emotional worry.

What once felt manageable may become uncomfortable as your body changes.

Everyone’s reasons are different. That’s why skilled plastic surgeons look at the full picture, and not just outward appearance. In some cases, a lift may also be recommended to achieve the best results.

Breast Reduction Surgery vs Breast Augmentation

These are two very different goals. In breast reduction, the goal is relief. Less weight, less pulling, less pressure. This involves removing breast tissue, skin, and fat to reshape the breasts and reduce their size. A breast lift is almost always included.

Breast augmentation is the opposite. It’s about adding volume, usually with implants. With augmentation, a breast implant is placed either under or over the muscle, depending on the surgeon’s approach and the patient’s body type.

Factors that Make up the Average Cost of Breast Reduction Surgery

The cost of any breast surgery depends on more than just the visible result. The average cost reflects the time, tools, and techniques involved, and that number can change based on the type of procedure you’re having.

Breast reduction usually costs more than an implant replacement, for example, because it’s a longer procedure. Breast reduction surgery involves the removal of fat, skin, and tissue, plus reshaping and lifting the breasts. In some cases, liposuction is used to contour the upper chest or sides. That adds to the total fee through a number of pathways.

Some patients also choose options like an internal bra or fat transfer for support or smoothing. These add-ons raise the price of the procedure as well.

Whether you’re getting cosmetic or reconstructive work, it’s important to ask your surgeon what’s included. Some fees look low upfront, but leave out essentials. Others include everything from the implants to recovery supplies.

Breast Implant Replacement, Breast Implant Revision Surgery, and Breast Implant Removal

Other common revisions to plastic surgery often relate to breast augmentation and breast implant removal. Breast implants are one of the most popular cosmetic procedures. However, there are times when breast revision surgery is required to correct an implant rupture or adjust the breast size. Sometimes, capsular contracture occurs, causing pain and discomfort due to the contraction of scar tissue.

During an implant revision, your old implants will be removed and replaced with new implants. These could be smaller than your previous ones, or the same size with a new style that gives a better overall appearance.

A board-certified plastic surgeon can help you determine if your breast implants are working as they should, and they can advise you on whether breast implant replacement is recommended based on your goals. Breast implant replacement surgery can also be accompanied by fat grafting to achieve a more natural look. Unless medically necessary, breast implant reconstructive surgery isn’t covered by health insurance.

Whether you are considering a breast reduction or breast implant removal to improve breast appearance, your surgeon will be able to help guide you on the right path. The type of procedure you need will vary based on your physical health, any discomfort you’re having, and a number of other variables.

What to Discuss with Your Plastic Surgeon at Your Consultation

If you’re thinking about breast reduction, the first thing your doctor will want to know is why. Maybe the size no longer fits your body. Maybe there’s damage. Maybe you just want smaller breasts due to comfort or emotional concerns. Your surgeon will also evaluate your BMI, as most require patients to be within a healthy weight range before performing the procedure. That answer shapes the whole procedure, whether you’ll need a breast lift, fat transfer, or additional involved work.

Ask what the surgery really costs. Some quotes include everything. Others don’t. You’ll also want to know what kind of procedure they recommend, what type of anesthesia they use, and how the recovery actually feels. If you’re considering procedures like liposuction near the upper chest, ask how much longer the healing process takes and what that adds to the total cost.

Breast Reduction Revision Surgery Cost FAQs

What makes breast reduction surgery safe for most patients?

Several factors contribute to the safety of breast reduction surgery when performed under optimal conditions. Careful patient selection is the cornerstone of safety, with surgeons evaluating medical history, family history, body mass index, smoking status, and existing health conditions before approving candidates for surgery.

Why should I look at before and after photos before choosing a surgeon?

Before and after photos from breast reduction show how a surgeon handles different body types, scars, and challenges. They reveal consistency, skill level, and whether outcomes match what patients were told to expect. Look for cases similar to your own, same age range, body type, and goals. If every photo looks perfect, ask to see the average results too.

Does Breast Reduction Require Breast Implants for a Good Shape?

No. When you have a breast reduction, you do not need to get implants to achieve a good breast shape afterward. During the breast reduction procedure, excess tissue and fat are removed. The surgeon then reshapes and, in some cases, lifts the leftover tissue to create proportionate and natural looking breasts. In cases where very little natural tissue is left over, some surgeons may recommend a very small implant or fat transfer.

How Painful is Breast Reduction Revision?

Breast reduction revision surgery is notably less painful than the original breast reduction surgery. When having minor revisions done, such as scar corrections or reshaping, there is usually minimal discomfort involved. More complicated revisions that require more tissue removal or further lifting may have similar pain levels as the original procedure.

Do Plastic Surgeons Charge for Revisions?

Most plastic surgeons charge for revision surgery. However, this depends on their specific policies regarding revisions. If the revision is to correct surgical errors, the surgeon may be willing to waive part or all of their fees. Revisions due to aesthetic reasons are typically charged for the revision work.

How Long After Breast Reduction Can I Get a Revision?

It’s ideal to wait between six and 12 months after your initial procedure before considering revision work. This is because it can take a long time to really see how the end result looks. During this waiting period, swelling gradually subsides, scar tissue matures, and the breasts settle into their final shape and position. Some post-surgical issues that seem concerning early on may resolve naturally without any additional intervention.

Ready for Your Breast Reduction Surgery Consult?

Ready to take the next step? Schedule your surgery consultation with Dr. Sanam Zahedi, an experienced plastic surgeon. You’ll get a full breakdown of your breast implant procedure, the expected cost, and details about how the surgery will be performed. Every patient is different, and your plan will reflect your body, recovery needs, and overall goals.