Breast Reduction

Consultations offered at our two convenient locations in Florham Park, NJ and Somerville, NJ

Breast Reduction in New Jersey

Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to reduce breast size by removing excess fat, tissue, and skin. (1)

Large breasts can lead to a variety of unwanted side effects, such as back pain or issues with mobility. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you may be a candidate for breast reduction. Breast reduction procedures help alleviate physical discomfort associated with enlarged breasts and improve overall body proportions. Many individuals seek breast reduction to enhance their quality of life, boost self-confidence, and achieve a more balanced figure.

For years, The Peer Group has been serving Somerville, Florham Park, Livingston, Morristown, and beyond, helping patients achieve exceptional results in a variety of procedures. If you are interested in breast reduction, schedule a personal consultation by contacting us online or by calling (973) 822-3000.

Before and After Photos

About Breast Reduction Procedures

Excessively large breasts can ultimately lead to physical and emotional discomfort. Individuals may suffer from back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, shoulder indentations from bras, and mobility difficulties due to heavy breasts. Additionally, enlarged breasts can impact a person’s body image and overall confidence. In breast reduction surgery, a surgeon removes extra breast tissue, fat, and skin. This not only reduces breast size but also reshapes and lifts the breasts for a more proportionate appearance. The procedure can be performed using various techniques based on an individual’s unique needs.

Benefits

Breast reduction procedures have grown in popularity because they offer numerous advantages. (2) Some of the most commonly reported benefits patients experience include:

  • Relief from Physical Discomfort: Many women experience chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain from the weight of large breasts. This procedure alleviates these physical burdens.
  • Improved Body Proportions: Reducing breast size harmonizes overall body shape, leading to greater balance and aesthetic appeal, enhancing body image.
  • Enhanced Self-Esteem: By achieving sizes that fit one’s body frame better, many patients report increased confidence and a positive outlook on their appearance.
  • More Clothing Options: Smaller breasts often make it easier to shop for clothing and find styles that fit well.
  • Greater Freedom of Movement: Large breasts can hinder athletic performance and physical activities. After surgery, patients often find they can engage in exercise much more easily.
  • Reduced Skin Irritation: Many individuals with larger breasts experience skin rashes or irritation beneath the breast fold. A reduction can eliminate these issues.
  • Long-lasting Results: Most patients enjoy permanent results with proper care and maintenance, allowing them to benefit from the surgery long-term.

To see how you could experience these benefits yourself, contact one of our two locations in either Florham Park or Somerville, New Jersey, to schedule a personal consultation. You can schedule your consultation online or by calling (973) 822-3000.

Ideal Candidates

Breast reduction procedures appeal to a variety of potential candidates. Candidates for breast reduction are typically individuals suffering from:

  • Excessively large breasts that cause physical discomfort.
  • Chronic pain in the back, shoulders, or neck.
  • Difficulty participating in physical activities due to breast size.
  • Skin irritation, chafing, or rashes beneath the breast fold.
  • Dissatisfaction with body image is linked to breast volume.

Candidates should ideally be non-smokers (or those willing to temporarily quit) who have realistic expectations about what they can accomplish with breast reduction. Your eligibility for breast reduction or another breast enhancement procedure at The Peer Group will be determined during your personal consultation.

Personal Consultation

A personal consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons is a crucial first step in your breast reduction treatment. During this visit, one of our staff members will assess your breast size, skin elasticity, and overall health to determine the best approach for your breast reduction. Together, we will discuss your medical history, talk about your expectations, and walk through the potential outcomes of the procedure.

This consultation will allow you to ask questions and raise any concerns you may have. Our staff will also outline the surgical techniques that may be used and explain any risks associated with the procedure to ensure you feel confident in your decision to pursue breast reduction. Once our team has gained enough information about you and what you hope to achieve with breast reduction procedures, we will work to create a personalized treatment plan crafted specifically to help you reach your goals.

To schedule a personal consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons at either our Florham Park or Somerville location, please contact us online or call (973) 822-3000.

Preparation

The Peer Group staff will provide you with detailed preoperative guidelines to help you prepare for your breast reduction. You should stop smoking (if applicable) and avoid certain medications, such as aspirin or other NSAIDs, which can increase bleeding. Additionally, it is important to arrange for someone to drive you home and assist you for at least the first 24 hours after your procedure, and take time away from responsibilities to recover. Following all pre-operative guidelines will help optimize your results and minimize the risk of complications.

Procedure

The details of your breast reduction will vary depending on several factors. This procedure begins with the administration of anesthesia to ensure your comfort. One of our surgeons will carefully make an incision in a predetermined location before removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin. They will reshape the breasts to create a smaller, more proportionate appearance while repositioning the nipples to a natural position. If necessary, liposuction may be used to remove fat and refine the contour of the breasts. Once the desired shape and size are achieved, the incisions will be closed with sutures, and surgical dressings will be applied.

Recovery

The initial recovery period after breast reduction surgery will involve some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. You should plan to rest for the first few days and avoid any strenuous activity until otherwise noted by The Peer Group team. Most patients return to work and light activities within one to two weeks, but heavy lifting and vigorous exercise should be avoided for at least four to six weeks. The Peer Group staff will provide specific aftercare instructions, including how to care for your incisions and when to schedule follow-up visits. As swelling subsides, your breasts will settle into their final position, revealing a more proportionate and comfortable contour.

Results

Breast reduction surgery will provide immediate relief from the physical discomfort caused by overly large breasts. As post-surgical swelling decreases, you will notice a smaller, more proportionate breast size that enhances your overall body balance. Many patients experience improved posture, increased clothing options, and greater confidence in their appearance. When utilizing refined techniques such as those practiced by The Peer Group, breast reduction procedures are associated with high patient satisfaction rates. (3)

The final results will become more apparent over the following months as your breasts fully heal and scars begin to fade. While some scarring is inevitable, it will gradually diminish over time. Our surgeons at The Peer Group strategically place incisions in areas that are meant to minimize visible scarring.

Corresponding Procedures

Many patients opt to combine breast reduction procedures with additional treatments in order to achieve more comprehensive results. Some of the additional treatments often performed in unison with breast reduction include liposuction and tummy tuck procedures. If you are interested in pursuing additional treatments to go along with your breast reduction, you can discuss this during your personal consultation with our staff.

Cost of Breast Reduction in New Jersey

The cost of breast reduction surgery will vary based on the complexity of the procedure, the surgical techniques used, and any additional treatments required to achieve your desired results. The Peer Group staff will be happy to provide you with a detailed cost estimate as well as discuss the financing options we offer to qualifying patients during your personal consultation.

Contact us online or call (973) 822-3000 to schedule your consultation and begin exploring your breast reduction treatment possibilities.

FAQ

Does insurance cover breast reduction?

Many insurance plans do cover breast reduction; however, coverage depends on documentation of medical necessity. We cannot guarantee insurance coverage for all patients, but we can happily assist you with insurance claims and any necessary paperwork.

How long does recovery take after breast reduction?

Full recovery typically spans anywhere from four to six weeks. However, most patients can return to light daily activities within the first week.

Will there be noticeable scars after my breast reduction?

While all surgical procedures incur some scarring, careful incision placement minimizes visibility. Results will vary across individuals.

What are the risks associated with breast reduction?

As with any surgical procedure, risks may include bleeding, infection, and complications related to anesthesia. Discussing these concerns can help ensure informed consent.

Can breastfeeding be affected after breast reduction?

Some patients may notice changes in breastfeeding ability. Thorough discussions during your consultation can address these concerns.

References

  1. Sachs D, Szymanski KD. Breast Reduction. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441974/
  2. American Society of Plastic Surgeons ® Endorsed Partner.; 2023. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/news/statistics/2023/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2023.pdf
  3. Lonie S, Sachs R, Shen A, Hunter-Smith DJ, Rozen WM, Seifman M. A systematic review of patient reported outcome measures for women with macromastia who have undergone breast reduction surgery. Gland Surgery. 2019;8(4):431-440. doi:https://doi.org/10.21037/gs.2019.03.08

About Dr. Isaac Starker

Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon · The Peer Group for Plastic Surgery

Board certification
American Board of Plastic Surgery (verify)
Education and training
  • Undergraduate: New York University, 1977, B.A
  • Medical School: New York University School of Medicine, June 1981, M.D
  • Residency: Montefiore Medical Center – Albert Einstein College of Medicine, July 1986 – June 1988, Plastic Surgery, Chief Resident, July 1987 – June 1988
  • Fellowship: The Roosevelt Hospital, Drs. J.W. Littler and R.G. Eaton, January 1989 – December 1989, Hand Surgery
  • MD, NYU School of Medicine
  • Plastic surgery training, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine
  • Doctor of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine (1981)
  • Internship, General Surgery, The Roosevelt Hospital (1981–1982)
  • Residency, General Surgery, The Roosevelt Hospital, Chief Resident (1982–1986)
Hospital affiliations
  • Morristown Medical Center
  • Attending, Morristown Memorial Hospital, Morristown, NJ
  • Attending, St. Barnabas Medical Center, Livingston, NJ
  • Attending, St. Luke's/Roosevelt Emergency Department (1988–1989)
Memberships
  • American Medical Association
  • Medical Society of New Jersey
  • Morris County Medical Society
  • American College of Surgeons
  • American Society of Plastic Surgeons
  • American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
  • Northeastern Society of Plastic Surgeons
  • New York Regional Society of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeons
  • President, New Jersey Society of Plastic Surgeons (2005)
  • President of the medical staff, Morristown Memorial Hospital (2008-2009)
  • Board of Trustees, Atlantic Health System (2008-2010)
  • Chief, Plastic Surgery Section, Morristown Medical Center (most recently 2014 and 2015)
  • Served on his local Board of Health for many years
  • Lipoplasty Society of North America (1998–2000)
  • Leo M. Davidoff Society
  • Beta Lambda Sigma Honor Society
  • Caducean Premed Honor Society
  • Secretary/Treasurer, Morristown Memorial Hospital Medical Staff (2004–2005)
  • Vice President, Morristown Memorial Hospital Medical Staff (2006–2007)
  • Chairman, Atlantic Health Leadership Committee (2010)
  • Vice-Chairman, Department of Surgery, Morristown Medical Center (Dec. 2010 – present)
  • Section Chief, Plastic Surgery, Morristown Medical Center (2014–2016)
  • Member, Board of Health, Madison, NJ (1996–2007)
  • Member, Executive Committee, New Jersey Society of Plastic Surgeons (1998–2007)
  • President, New Jersey Society of Plastic Surgeons (2006–2007)
  • Trustee, Peer Foundation for Plastic Surgery and Rehabilitation (2005-present)
Awards
  • Castle Connolly Top Doctors, Women's Health, 2024
  • Top Doctors, Morris & Essex Magazine, 2025
  • Top Doctors 2024: Plastic Surgery, Castle Connolly
  • Top Doctor, NJ Monthly 2006-2019
  • Top Doctors, Millburn-Short Hills Magazine 2016
  • Castle Connolly Medical, Ltd., Top Docs NY Metro Area 2007-2012, 2016, 2019-2022
  • Castle Connolly, Regional Top Doctor 2012, 2013
  • NJ Savvy Living, 2006-2009
  • NJ Savvy Living, New Jersey’s Best Beauty Doctor, Feb. 2010 Issue, Jan. 2011 Issue
  • America’s Cosmetic Doctors, 1st Edition, 2004
  • Top Doctors, Inside Jersey, A Star Ledger Magazine, 2010-2018
  • Top Doctors for Women’s Health, Inside Jersey, A Star Ledger Magazine, 2015 and 2016
  • Top Doctors for Cancer, Inside Jersey, A Star Ledger Magazine, 2014-2016
  • Best Doctors, Inc., Best Doctors in America, Listed consecutively since 1996-2016
  • Consumers’ Research Council of America, Guide to America’s Top Plastic Surgeons, 2010-2012
  • Voted Best Cosmetic Surgeon, The Daily Record Reader’s Choice, 2009-2010
  • 2013 Vitals Patient Choice Award
  • 2014 Vitals Top 10 Doctor
  • NJ Top Docs
  • America’s Best Plastic Surgeons, Newsweek, 2024
  • Top Doc, New Jersey Monthly magazine (1996, 1998, 2006–2018)
  • Best Dr.'s In America, Northeast Region, Woodward/White (1996–1997)
  • Best Dr.'s in NY Metro Area, Castle/Connolly (1999–2021)
  • Best Doctors, Best Doctors, Inc. (2001–2014)
  • America's Cosmetic Doctors and Dentists Consumer Guide (2003, 2006)
  • Top Doctors, Inside Jersey magazine (2011–2021)
  • New Jersey Best Beauty Doctor, NJSavvy Living (February 2010)
  • Cum Laude, New York University
  • Founder's Day Award, New York University
  • Dean's List, New York University
  • Glover C. Arnold Award for excellence in Surgery, New York University School of Medicine
  • Certificate of Distinction as Outstanding House Officer, Leo M. Davidoff Society, Montefiore Medical Center
NPI
1932175536
Offices
Florham Park · Somerville

Read Dr. Isaac Starker's full bio