Breast reduction
Large and sagging breasts can pose both aesthetic and health challenges. Their weight can strain the spine and neck, causing pain and discomfort. Oversized and sagging breasts can also be a psychological burden, often appearing unappealing and making it difficult to find suitable bras, swimwear, or clothing without attracting unwanted attention.
Women with overly large breasts often feel as though they are constantly carrying weights, making activities such as running and sports almost impossible. Excessive sweating between and under the breasts can also lead to skin irritation and frequent bacterial or fungal infections.
Breast reduction surgery removes excess tissue from the breasts, reshaping and lifting them for a more harmonious figure and significant physical relief. This procedure provides women with aesthetically pleasing, proportionate, and attractive silhouettes by tightening the skin and reducing fatty and glandular tissue.
Why choose breast reduction?
Large and sagging breasts are not just an aesthetic challenge—they can cause back, neck, and shoulder pain, hinder physical activity, and make finding suitable clothing difficult. Our goal is to help you achieve a balanced figure and relieve physical discomfort.
Are you a candidate for breast reduction?
If you experience any of the following issues, you may be a good candidate for breast reduction surgery:
- You feel burdened by your physical appearance and can no longer tolerate unwelcome attention to your breasts.
- Persistent pain in your neck and back troubles you.
- You struggle to breathe comfortably while sleeping because your breasts feel restrictive.
- Sleeping on your stomach is impossible.
- Bra straps dig into your shoulders, leaving marks or indentations.
- You avoid engaging in sports or physical activities.
- Finding the right size bra, swimwear, or clothing is a constant challenge.
Additional considerations:
- Teenagers: Breast reduction surgery is not performed on teenagers unless there is a medical indication.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you plan to have children and breastfeed, it’s best to postpone the surgery until after breastfeeding, as the procedure may affect milk production.
- Weight loss: If you are overweight and plan to lose weight, it is recommended to undergo breast reduction after completing your weight loss journey. This allows for the removal of any excess skin that may result from significant weight loss.
Preparing for breast reduction surgery
All preoperative preparations are conducted at our clinic and are included in the price. This includes laboratory tests such as a complete blood count, basic biochemistry, coagulation factors, blood group, and Rh factor.
It also includes:
- Internal medicine and cardiology evaluation with ECG.
- Chest X-ray with a radiologist’s report.
- Clinical evaluation by an anesthesiologist.
- Breast ultrasound or mammography.
- Consultation with an oncological surgeon, if necessary.
If you are a smoker, it is essential to quit smoking several weeks before the surgery, as smoking negatively impacts circulation and the wound-healing process, thereby prolonging recovery time. If you take aspirin, vitamin C, or other supplements, you should stop taking them seven days prior to the procedure.
It is crucial to refrain from consuming any food or drinks for at least 12 hours before the scheduled surgery. You will need to remove any nail polish or gel polish from your fingernails. It is also necessary to completely remove makeup, piercings, and jewelry. Avoid applying body lotion for 4–6 hours before the operation.
You should bring personal hygiene items, a photo ID (ID card or passport), complete medical documentation, and any medications that are part of your chronic therapy.
Breast reduction surgery process
Breast reduction involves the removal of a specific amount of fatty and glandular tissue, as well as excess skin, which needs to be tightened. In some cases, the areola and nipple are repositioned to align with the new size and shape of the breast.
There are several techniques for reducing and lifting large breasts. During the preoperative consultation, the surgeon will discuss all available options with the patient and decide on the appropriate surgical technique in agreement with her. The surgeon will also perform marking, drawing lines on the breasts to guide the incisions during the procedure. Photos will be taken to compare the results of the surgery with the initial state.
Our goal is to provide the patient with beautifully shaped breasts that look great in any clothing, including the smallest bikini.
The first dressing change and check-up are performed on the third day after surgery. Subsequent dressing appointments are scheduled in consultation with the surgeon. Stitches are removed 14 days after the surgery.
It is mandatory for the patient to wear a special elastic support bra immediately after surgery and throughout the recovery period.
How long does breast reduction surgery take?
Depending on the complexity of the procedure, the surgery typically lasts between 2 and 4 hours.
Are scars visible after breast reduction surgery?
Compared to breast augmentation, breast reduction involves more incisions, which are also significantly longer. This type of incision is commonly referred to as a “keyhole” incision. While scars fade over time, they may still be noticeable on bare skin. However, they are not visible when wearing a deeper neckline, a bra, or a swimsuit.
It is important to avoid exposing scars to sunlight or tanning beds. If you are in the sun, cover the scars with adhesive tape or apply a high-SPF sunscreen to protect them.
Recovery after breast reduction surgery
After breast reduction surgery, the patient needs to rest at home for at least seven days. During this time, it is recommended to move the arms within the limits of pain. For a period of 4–6 weeks after surgery, any physical exertion, exercise, or lifting heavy objects is strictly prohibited. These activities can only be resumed after consulting with the surgeon.
For several months following the surgery, wearing a bra with underwire is not recommended.
What can you feel after breast reduction surgery?
In the first few days after surgery, you may notice swelling and bruising, but these will gradually subside. You will immediately feel significant physical relief—no more back, shoulder, or neck pain.
Risks after breast reduction surgery
As with any surgery, breast reduction and lift procedures carry some risks. Fortunately, complications are extremely rare when performed by an experienced aesthetic surgery specialist.
Possible complications include bleeding, infection, or delayed wound healing. In some cases, patients may experience a loss of sensation in the nipples and areolas.
Before and After
FAQ
Will the scars be visible?
The use of the most advanced surgical techniques minimizes the visibility of scars, which fade over time and become almost imperceptible.
How long does recovery take after breast reduction?
Recovery takes several weeks, during which it is important to follow the doctor’s instructions for optimal results.
Will breast reduction and lift affect sensation in the nipples and breast skin?
Changes in sensation, including reduced feeling in the nipples and breast skin, are possible. In some cases, this may be temporary, but in others, it could be permanent.
Is excess skin removed and tightened during breast reduction?
Yes, during breast reduction surgery, excess skin, fatty tissue, and glandular tissue are removed. This simultaneously reshapes and lifts the breasts.
Is a breast lift performed along with reduction?
Yes, a breast lift is often performed in conjunction with breast reduction to achieve a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing appearance
How long does breast reduction surgery take?
The surgery typically lasts between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the amount of tissue to be removed.
Can i breastfeed after breast reduction surgery?
The ability to breastfeed depends on the surgical technique used. Your surgeon will advise you on the best options if you plan to have children in the future. It is important to mention your desire to breastfeed before the surgery.
Can the size of the nipples be reduced during breast reduction surgery?
Yes, during breast reduction surgery, it is possible to reduce and reshape the nipples and areolas if needed.
Does breast reduction surgery affect nipple sensation?
Temporary loss of nipple sensation is possible after surgery, but most patients regain sensation over time.
How long is the recovery after breast reduction surgery?
Recovery typically takes 4–6 weeks, although most patients can resume daily activities after 7 days, provided they follow their doctor’s instructions.
Can breast reduction be performed on only one breast?
Yes, the procedure can be performed on just one breast to achieve symmetry.
Can I sunbathe topless after surgery?
It is recommended to avoid topless sunbathing until the scars have fully healed and faded. Scars should be protected with a high-SPF sunscreen during sun exposure.
Does breast reduction surgery help with back and neck pain?
Yes, breast reduction significantly reduces strain on the spine, shoulders, and neck, alleviating or completely eliminating pain in these areas.
How long does it take for scars to become unnoticeable?
Scars become barely visible within several months to a year. With proper care, their appearance can be further minimized.
Does breast reduction reduce the risk of skin irritation under the breasts?
Yes, breast reduction eliminates excessive friction and sweating, thereby reducing the risk of irritation and infections under the breasts.