Breast Reduction
Many patients who seek help for large breasts need breast reduction surgery not only for aesthetic reasons but also because of health problems.
Especially at a young age, large breasts can also lead to psychological difficulties. Breast size affects the skeletal system too. The weight of the breasts pulls the body forward and can trigger problems such as a herniated disc in the neck, a hunched upper back and loss of strength in the arms due to nerve compression. This strain on the skeleton increases in the presence of osteoporosis. These problems are usually resolved with surgery, and breast reduction is required.
How is the operation performed?
The aim is to achieve the best possible shape while leaving as little scarring as possible. For this reason, breast measurements and markings must be carefully planned before the operation. This stage is just as important as the operation itself for the final result.
Breast reduction surgery, also called reduction mammoplasty, makes the breasts smaller, reshapes them and gives them a more lifted appearance. In these operations, skin, fat, breast tissue and glandular tissue are removed from the large breast.
Breast reduction involves not only reducing the breasts but also lifting and firming them. If the areola, the area around the nipple, is large, it can also be reduced and reshaped.
Although it varies from person to person, breast reduction leaves scars that sit within the bra or bikini line. Depending on the surgical technique and the degree of reduction, the scars run around the nipple and areola and down towards the fold beneath the breast, forming an inverted T, J or L shape. These scars are prominent and red in the first months, but they gradually fade and become less noticeable over time.
The operation takes around 2–4 hours, depending on breast size and the techniques used.
What should I pay attention to after surgery?
The operation is performed under general anaesthesia. The patient is usually discharged after one night in hospital.
Drains are placed in both breasts after surgery and are removed between approximately day 1 and day 4. There is some pain during the first 2 days, which is relieved with painkillers. Swelling or bruising around the breasts is also possible, but this usually resolves completely after 2 weeks.
After surgery, special sports bras are worn to reduce swelling. It is possible to return to desk work 4–5 days after surgery. Exercise and heavy lifting are generally not recommended for 3–4 weeks.
It takes around 6–12 months for the swelling to fully subside and for the breasts to take on their final shape.
Can I breastfeed after breast reduction surgery?
Because some of the milk ducts may be removed in certain cases, breastfeeding after pregnancy may be affected. Some studies suggest this applies to around 10–20% of patients.
Who is at higher risk?
Problems with wound healing and more noticeable scarring may occur in patients with diabetes, systemic diseases or various vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and especially in smokers. For this reason, the possible risks should be explained to these patients.