Breast reduction, or reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to correct breast sagging while reducing the size of the mammary gland. This procedure is ideal for women with large (hypertrophic) or sagging (ptotic) breasts and can effectively alleviate physical discomfort while improving breast aesthetics. Breast tissue size can fluctuate due to factors such as weight changes, pregnancy, and hormonal shifts. Over time, the ligaments and milk ducts stretch, causing the breasts to descend.
The causes of breast hypertrophy vary and may include hormonal changes during development or after breastfeeding, as well as genetic conditions such as gigantomastia. Obesity can also contribute to an increase in fatty tissue within the breast, leading to greater volume and a lower breast position on the chest wall, which affects the youthful appearance of the breasts.
In some cases, excessively large breasts may lead to back pain. However, it is important to rule out other causes such as obesity, poor posture, or muscle weakness. If, after evaluating these factors, the pain persists and is determined to be related to breast size, breast reduction surgery may be considered a functional procedure—and in many cases, is covered by health insurance providers.
The Procedure.
The main goals of breast reduction surgery are to reposition the areola and nipple to a higher location, improve breast shape, and reduce glandular tissue volume.
This is a delicate procedure, as the reduction must preserve proper blood supply to the nipple. Surgeons also aim to minimize the visibility of scarring, which may take the form of an inverted T (with the horizontal scar hidden in the inframammary fold and the vertical one on the lower breast), an L-shape, or a periareolar pattern depending on the technique used.
The surgery typically lasts between 3 to 4 hours and is performed under general anesthesia. It may be outpatient or require hospitalization, depending on the patient’s individual case.
Before Surgery.
Before undergoing breast reduction, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the desired breast volume and the potential scarring resulting from the procedure. It is important to know that the extent of reduction is limited by the need to preserve nipple blood supply.
For example, if you currently wear a D cup, it may be possible to reduce to a B cup, though breast contour may not change proportionally.
Your plastic surgeon will perform a thorough health assessment, review your medical history, and evaluate the condition and anatomy of your breasts.
After Surgery.
You may feel fatigued and experience some discomfort, which can be managed with the prescribed medication.
Most daily activities can usually be resumed from the third postoperative day.
Wearing a flannel sports bra 24 hours a day for one month is essential to ensure proper shaping and minimize pain. Sutures are typically removed between days 10 and 14.
Swimming should be avoided during the first two weeks to prevent infections.
Physical activities can typically be resumed between the third and fourth week. Temporary numbness or tingling in the breasts may occur but usually resolves within a few weeks.
Scars will initially appear firm and red during the first six weeks, but with proper care, their appearance will gradually improve over time.