Dr. Shell and his staff are respectful. The staff is awesome and kind. I love the welcome when you come in, and when you leave, they are very helpful. I love the staff and am joyous and happy when I come there. They know what they are doing and are not mean people at all. I recommend my family to go there.
Breast Reduction
At Shell Cosmetic Surgery Center in Memphis, TN, breast reduction surgery—also known as reduction mammoplasty—offers life-changing relief for women suffering from the physical and emotional strain of overly large breasts. Performed by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Dan H. Shell III, this procedure removes excess tissue, reshapes the breasts, and lifts sagging contours to create a more balanced and comfortable silhouette. Patients often experience dramatic improvement in posture, physical mobility, and self-esteem following surgery.
What Is a Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction is an outpatient procedure designed to reduce breast size while enhancing shape and position. Dr. Shell skillfully removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin, alleviating chronic pain in the neck, shoulders, and back while eliminating skin irritation beneath the breasts. The result is a more proportionate figure and a renewed sense of freedom. Because this surgery is often medically necessary, many patients with documented symptoms may qualify for insurance coverage.
Ideal candidates include women who are at a stable weight and in good general health. Whether discomfort interferes with daily activity or confidence is compromised by unwanted attention or difficulty finding clothing that fits, breast reduction can offer powerful relief and transformation. Patients often find that they have better posture, more energy, and are able to exercise more effectively after breast reduction surgery.
Benefits of Breast Reduction
Patients who undergo breast reduction often report feeling lighter, more mobile, and more confident in their appearance. The procedure not only reduces the physical strain on the body but also improves emotional well-being by restoring balance and allowing for greater participation in fitness, fashion, and daily life. Better posture, improved sleep, and the ability to wear well-fitting bras and clothes are just some of the everyday rewards of this transformative procedure.
The Breast Reduction Process
The journey begins with a private consultation with Dr. Shell, where your medical history, physical symptoms, and personal goals are discussed in depth. During this visit, Dr. Shell will determine the appropriate amount of tissue to remove, review your insurance eligibility if applicable, and set expectations for healing and results.
Surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes about three to four hours. Dr. Shell uses an anchor-shaped (inverted-T) incision pattern to access the breast tissue, which allows him to reduce, lift, and reshape the breasts for a more natural and youthful appearance. He employs the inferior pedicle technique to preserve nipple sensation and blood supply. No drains are needed, and internal dissolvable sutures are used to support long-term healing. At no point during the procedure is the nipple removed from the breast, which helps maximize the likelihood of preserving nipple sensation, maintaining nerve connections, and supporting the potential for breastfeeding.
Recovery is carefully guided. Most patients return home the same day, with bandages worn for the first several days. Strenuous activity should be avoided for at least four to six weeks. Dr. Shell and his staff monitor healing at scheduled follow-ups and provide detailed instructions to support optimal comfort and results..
What to Expect After Surgery
Patients often notice immediate relief from the physical burden of large breasts, along with a more proportionate, uplifted breast shape. While swelling and bruising are expected in the early weeks, these symptoms subside gradually, revealing refined contours and improved symmetry. Scarring is a natural part of the healing process; however, Dr. Shell’s advanced techniques are designed to place incisions where they are least visible, and his team provides guidance on scar care to support beautiful, long-term results.
Breast reduction results are long-lasting, though natural aging, weight fluctuations, or pregnancy can influence shape over time. With proper support and a healthy lifestyle, patients can enjoy the benefits of their surgery for many years.
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Why Choose Dr. Dan Shell III?
Choose Dr. Shell for trusted, personalized cosmetic surgery. His highly regarded clinic specializes in body contouring, facial rejuvenation, and breast enhancement. Discover expert cosmetic solutions that put your beauty and wellness first. Schedule your consultation today!
Professional Credentials:
- MD from University of Mississippi School of Medicine
- Board Certified by American Board of Plastic Surgery
- Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
- Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Member, American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
- Member, Southeastern Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons
- Over 50 years of surgical experience
- Outstanding Resident Award recipient (1981)
Dr. Shell and his entire staff will forever hold a place in my heart for their kindness, patience, and ability to handle a patient like myself!
From the initial consultation to almost a year later, they all have been a dream! Dr. Shell and his entire staff will forever hold a place in my heart for their kindness, patience, and ability to handle a patient like myself! If no one has said this to you all lately, thank you for everything! My life has forever changed!
Dr. Shell did an abdomen revision for me several years ago. He did such an excellent job and I recommended him to other friends as well
Dr. Shell did an abdomen revision for me several years ago. He did such an excellent job and I recommended him to other friends as well. Thank you again Dr. Shell and staff!
The staff is very friendly and helpful, and the doctor is very experienced and caring
I received a drainless tummy tuck. I am happy with my results so far. I am only 2 months postoperation. I am so happy I chose to stay close to my home rather than travel somewhere farther. I am able to get all the postoperation care that I need. The staff is very friendly and helpful, and the doctor is very experienced and caring. I love my belly button, lol.
I love Dr. Dan Shell and his entire crew! Very professional and knowledgeable about his job
I love Dr. Dan Shell and his entire crew! Very professional and knowledgeable about his job. Whatever he tells you, believe it and follow it, and he’s going to make it happen. I am 6 days post abdominalplasty, and I am in love with my results! Dr. Dan is this BEST!!
Dr. Shell & his staff welcomed me in with open arms
After being turned down by multiple surgeons here in Memphis for a simple removal, Dr. Shell & his staff welcomed me in with open arms. The environment is clean & professional. I felt comfortable and feel like I made a great decision reaching out to him & his staff. I’m soooo happy & relieved right now. Thanks a lot, Dr. Shell & nurse!
Dr. Shell was incredible, and I went from consult to operation in just a little over 24 hours
I had piercings that were embedded in my face and had to be cut out. Dr. Shell was incredible, and I went from consult to operation in just a little over 24 hours. I am very grateful for him and the entire staff at the surgery center. Thank you so much, Dr. Shell.
DR. SHELL YOU ARE THE BEST!!
I love Dr. Shell I had surgery and I was so terrified but in true Dr. Shell fashion he came in made me laugh and the next thing I knew he was done. I’m loving what I see so far still swollen but excited to see the end result. Brandi is great she is always willing to answer questions and to put your mind at ease. No need to go to other states or over seas when we have and outstanding plastic surgeon right in Memphis, TN. DR. SHELL YOU ARE THE BEST!!
Dan Shell did an INCREDIBLE job with my plastic surgery
Dan Shell did an INCREDIBLE job with my plastic surgery. I was super nervous the day of surgery, but everything he said and did made the experience one of the easiest things I had done. He is very knowledgeable and experienced, and has a reason for the ways he does things. It was a bit of a leap of faith to trust him but 10/10 I would do it again. He and his staff have been so helpful and given me all kinds of advice and support. I read complaints of people have to wait to see him – I never once have had this issue.
My healing process has been so, so easy, and the scarring is minimal – not even a factor. I am beyond happy with the work Dan Shell did and would recommend him to anyone.
If you want a place to go where people care about you and look out for your best interests, and best health, go see Dr. Shell
Dr. Shell, and his staff are absolutely amazing. Brandi is hands down the best ever! His nurse is amazing too! Every staff member exceeded my expectations. They sealed the deal in my decision to chose Dr. Shell as my doctor. If you want a place to go where people care about you and look out for your best interests, and best health, go see Dr. Shell.
Love Love Love Dr. Shell & Staff!
Complimentary Treatments
Frequently Asked Questions
Breast reduction, or reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to achieve a breast size more in proportion with your body. Candidates typically experience chronic back, shoulder, or neck pain; skin irritation beneath the breasts; or restricted physical activity due to breast size. If you’re in good health and maintain realistic expectations, Dr. Shell can determine if the procedure is right for you.
Breast reduction is performed under general anesthesia at Dr. Shell’s accredited outpatient facility. The surgery involves reshaping the breast and repositioning the nipple for a lifted, balanced appearance. Most procedures last between two to four hours. Patients return home the same day and receive detailed instructions to support comfort and healing.
You’ll likely return to light activities within one week, with a gradual increase in activity over the next few weeks. Full recovery typically takes four to six weeks. You’ll need to wear a supportive surgical bra and avoid heavy lifting or high-impact exercise until cleared by Dr. Shell.
Breast reduction results are long-lasting, especially when paired with a stable weight and healthy habits. Factors such as pregnancy, hormonal changes, or significant weight gain can impact outcomes over time, but most patients enjoy long-term relief from physical discomfort and enhanced body confidence.
Scars are an inevitable part of surgery, but Dr. Shell uses techniques to place incisions discreetly and minimize long-term visibility. Over time, most scars fade significantly and become less noticeable. Our team also provides scar treatment options and post-op care plans to support healing.
What You Can Expect
From the first consultation to your final results, Dr. Shell and his experienced team are dedicated to delivering a breast reduction experience that relieves pain, enhances proportion, and boosts your confidence. With expert care and personalized support, you can achieve the balanced silhouette and comfort you’ve been waiting for.
Ready to learn more? Schedule your private consultation at www.drshellcosmeticsurgery.com/contact and take the next step toward a lighter, more confident you.
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