Breast Reduction : what is it?
Breast reduction is one of the operations with both an aesthetic and a functional result. Very large breasts cause back, neck and shoulder pain, leave grooves from bra straps, lead to irritation and fungal infections under the breast and make exercise difficult. The operation removes excess breast tissue and skin, moves the nipple upwards and brings the breast into proportion with the body. Satisfaction is among the highest of all aesthetic procedures, because what changes is not only appearance but daily comfort.
Who is a suitable candidate?
- Back, neck and shoulder pain related to breast size
- Permanent grooves left by bra straps on the shoulders
- Recurrent irritation or fungal infection in the inframammary fold
- Difficulty with physical activity and choosing clothes
- Stable weight and not smoking
How is it performed?
The most common approach is the inverted-T pattern: around the areola, running down vertically and continuing horizontally in the inframammary fold. Where less tissue is to be removed, a technique leaving only a vertical scar may be used.
The nipple is moved upwards on a tissue pedicle carrying its own blood vessels and nerves. Technically this is the most critical part of the operation; the viability and sensation of the nipple depend on it.
Once excess tissue and fat are removed, the remaining tissue is reshaped and the skin closed. Limited liposuction of the sides is added if needed.
Recovery
The timeline below shows an average course. Your personal recovery depends on your age, skin quality, smoking and the extent of the operation.
A drain may have been placed; it is usually removed within 1 – 2 days. Pain is controlled with medication. Most patients notice relief in the back and neck from the first day.
The sports bra is worn continuously. The arms are not strained. Light walking is encouraged from day one; being immobile is not advised.
Swelling subsides and the breast shape becomes clearer. Light exercise resumes from week 4. Scar care begins once the wounds have fully closed.
The final shape settles and the scars fade. Because weight changes affect the result directly, stable weight matters.
Possible risks
Every surgical procedure carries risk. Knowing them is not meant to frighten you but to let you decide with full awareness. Each point is discussed individually at your consultation.
- Scarring (the inverted-T pattern leaves noticeable scars)
- Reduced or lost nipple sensation
- Reduced capacity to breastfeed
- Wound healing problems, particularly at the T junction
- Asymmetry and the possibility of a second correction
- Bleeding, infection, seroma
This page is for general information and does not replace a consultation. The method that may apply to you, the expected outcome and the risks can only be determined after a medical examination.
Frequently asked questions
Is breast reduction covered by insurance?
Where a defined volume of tissue must be removed and orthopaedic complaints are documented, it depends on the insurer’s assessment. This is discussed separately at your consultation.
Will I be able to breastfeed?
Because the nipple is moved with its tissue pedicle, breastfeeding is possible for many patients, although milk production may be reduced.
Are reduction and lift the same thing?
No. Reduction removes tissue; a lift preserves the volume and only repositions it. A reduction naturally includes a lift as well.
