What is a breast reduction?
Not always large breasts are considered an advantage. Many women suffer spinal pain or feel physical and psychological discomfort while playing sports or engaging in other active physical activities. That often leads to reduced self-confidence. In addition, large breasts sag over time, so more and more women worldwide are opting for breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty. This surgery can help improve the quality of life, enhance mood and psychological well-being, and most importantly, increase self-esteem.
When can breast reduction be performed?
Three main causes usually lead women to seek help from plastic surgeons.
Important information
This type of surgery is not recommended for women planning to breastfeed in the future, as it may be necessary to cut the milk ducts. The larger the woman’s breasts, the more likely it is to no longer be able to breastfeed after surgery.
How to prepare for breast reduction?
Consult a doctor
Discuss the desired size and shape of breasts with your doctor before the operation. Then, all the necessary tests should follow.
Medication use and unhealthy habits
It is recommended not to use anti-inflammatory drugs before surgery as they may increase the risk of bleeding. We also recommend quitting smoking at least four weeks before and after surgery.
How is breast reduction performed?
Breast reduction is performed under general anesthesia and takes about 3 hours. This surgery can be done in several ways. The doctor will decide which one suits you best based on your case.
Anchor reduction is performed in the presence of substantial amounts of excess skin and adipose tissue. The incision is made in the shape of an inverted T anchor.
Vertical reduction with smaller incisions under the breasts is performed when a smaller amount of excess tissue needs to be removed.
During the operation, unnecessary skin and the tissue beneath it are removed, reducing the size of the breasts and the aureola (the area of dark brown skin around the nipple), which often increases as breasts grow. Then, the aureola and the nipple are raised, and an aesthetically pleasing breast shape is formed. After reduction, the top of the breasts usually feels empty, so many women also choose to have breast augmentation with implants.
What to expect after breast reduction surgery?
Special care
Patients should spend the first day after surgery in the clinic. The first month after the operation requires care and supervision. However, you can return to work and resume normal activities after 7 to 10 days. A special bra should be worn 22/23 hours a day for 4 to 6 weeks. We recommend sleeping on your back for at least a month after surgery.
Healing and scarring
Because the nipple is partially separated from the surrounding breast tissue during surgery and the innervation is slightly disturbed, the sensitivity of the nipple may decrease, but it will improve over time. The final result will be visible after four months when the shape of the breast fully forms. Around that time, the sensitivity of the nipple also recovers. The postoperative scar should be protected from direct sunlight for at least a year to keep it as pale as possible. It usually fades away within two years.
Active physical activity
Active exercise is not recommended for three months after surgery.