Breast reduction is a procedure aimed at reducing the size and weight of the breasts, as well as improving their shape and symmetry. Many women choose this procedure due to functional issues such as neck, shoulder, and back pain, skin irritations, or difficulty in daily activities.
During the surgery, excess skin, fat, and glandular tissue are removed, and the breast is reshaped to achieve a more harmonious form. The result is a smaller, lighter, and more lifted breast.
Breast reduction offers significant improvement both aesthetically and functionally, contributing to a better quality of life and providing relief from the symptoms caused by large breasts.
Consultation Session
During your initial consultation visit, the primary goal is to clearly define your personal needs and expectations from the procedure. The surgeon will evaluate whether you are a suitable candidate for the surgery through a clinical examination, which includes assessing breast size, symmetry, and skin quality.
Your overall health status and functional complaints will also be taken into account. During the discussion, all options will be presented, along with detailed information regarding the expected results and potential risks.
How the Procedure is Performed
Before the surgery, a detailed clinical evaluation is conducted, and specific markings are made on the breasts. The procedure begins with the removal of excess skin, fat, and glandular tissue, depending on the needs of each case.
Next, the breast is reshaped, and the nipple is repositioned to a more natural and anatomically correct location to achieve symmetry and harmony in the final result. Finally, the wound is sutured in multiple layers to ensure stability and proper healing.
Anesthesia & Hospital Stay
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically requires an overnight hospital stay.
Associated Risks in Breast Reduction Surgery
Breast reduction is a safe procedure with a low complication rate. The most common are bleeding, infection, and temporary changes in nipple sensitivity. In some cases, a temporary alteration in sensation may be observed, which usually resolves over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
After the procedure, it is normal to experience a feeling of pressure and swelling in the breasts. The initial swelling gradually subsides within a few weeks. The use of a special supportive bra is recommended for about 6 weeks to support proper healing and stabilize the results.
A breast reduction does leave scars, which are, however, placed in specific anatomical areas to be as inconspicuous as possible. They typically include scars around the areola, vertically down to the inframammary fold, and along the inframammary fold. Over time, the scars improve significantly in appearance and become less visible.
Most patients return to light daily activities within a few days, depending on their recovery progress.
Strenuous physical exercise is typically permitted after 6 weeks. Full recovery progresses gradually and is completed within the following months.
Breast reduction offers a permanent reduction in size; however, changes in body weight, pregnancy, and natural aging can affect the final result over time.
In most cases, the ability to breastfeed is preserved. However, because the breast is reshaped and the nipple is repositioned during the surgery, there is a small percentage of cases where breastfeeding may be affected. This likelihood depends on the specific technique used and each patient’s individual anatomical characteristics.
Yes, you can undergo a mammogram as normal after a breast reduction. The surgery does not affect routine breast screenings.
It is important to inform the radiologist about your surgical history to ensure an accurate evaluation. In some cases, supplementary tests, such as a breast ultrasound or MRI, may be required.
Preventive screenings should be continued as normal, in accordance with medical guidelines.