Preparing for your surgery

New York City plastic surgeon Dr. Zevon may require you to have a mammogram (breast x-ray) before surgery. You’ll also get specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications. Dr. Zevon sometimes suggests that his patients diet before the operation.

Breast reduction doesn’t usually require a blood transfusion. However, if a large amount of breast tissue will be removed, Dr. Zevon may advise you to have a unit of blood drawn ahead of time. That way, if a transfusion should be needed, your own blood can be used.

While you’re making preparations, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery and to help you out for a few days if needed.

Where your surgery will be performed

Breast reduction surgery may be performed in a hospital, an outpatient surgery center or an office-based surgical suite. If you are admitted to the hospital, your stay will be a short one. The surgery itself usually takes two to four hours, but may take longer in some cases.

Type of anesthesia

Breast reduction is nearly always performed under general anesthesia. You’ll be asleep through the entire operation.