Graphic: How breast reduction is done

These steps illustrate how a breast reduction is done:

Step 1:
The lines indicate the area of skin, breast tissue, and fat to be removed and the new position for the nipple.

Step 2:
Skin above the nipple is brought down to reshape the breast. Stitches close the incisions, giving the breast it's new contour.

Step 3:
Scars around the areola, below it, and in the crease under the breast are permanent. They can fortunately be concealed easily by clothing.