What Is Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction surgery, medically known as reduction mammoplasty, is performed to relieve discomfort and improve appearance in people with large breasts by removing fat, breast tissue and skin from the breasts. Breast reduction surgery can be performed for medical reasons as well as aesthetic concerns. It is also chosen for reasons such as reducing breast tissue that is genetically large or lifting breasts that have sagged after breastfeeding.

Why Is Breast Reduction Surgery Chosen?

Breast reduction surgery may be an option for people who experience the following problems because of large breasts:

• Chronic back, neck and shoulder pain
• Shoulder grooves caused by bra straps
• Chronic redness and skin irritation under the breasts
• Nerve pain
• Restricted movement
• A poorer self-image due to large, heavy breasts
• Difficulty fitting into bras and clothing

Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction surgery is generally not recommended for people who:

• Smoke
• Have severe obesity
• You can have breast reduction surgery at any age, sometimes even when you are young. However, breasts that are not yet fully developed may make a second operation necessary later in life.

What Should Be Done Before Breast Reduction Surgery?

Before the breast reduction surgeries we perform at Can Hastanesi in İzmir, we review our patients' medical history and carry out general health checks. Then, during a preliminary consultation with the plastic surgeon, you will discuss the ideal size for your breasts and how you would like them to look after surgery. The decision to have breast reduction surgery will be evaluated together with all its possible risks and benefits. Photographs of your breasts will be taken for your medical records, and the type of medication that will be used to put you to sleep during surgery will be determined.

Photographs of your breasts will be taken for your medical records, and the type of medication that will be used to put you to sleep during surgery will be determined.

First, a mammogram evaluation is required before surgery, and you must not smoke for at least six weeks before and after surgery. To help keep bleeding under control after surgery, it is recommended that you avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements. You can usually go home a day later, so you may need to arrange for someone to accompany you.

How Is Breast Reduction Surgery Performed?

Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The technique used to reduce the size of your breasts may vary depending on the plastic surgeon. Common approaches include surgery through incisions and liposuction to remove excess fat from the breasts. The surgeon usually makes an incision around the nipple and areola and another one down each breast, then removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin to reduce the size of the breast. After reshaping the breast, the surgeon repositions the nipple and the surrounding area, known as the areola. The nipple and the surrounding area usually remain attached to the breast. Your surgeon will aim to make your breasts look similar to each other and proportionate. For very large breasts, the surgeon may need to remove the nipple and graft it back in a new position. The areola may become smaller, and the incision scars will fade and become less noticeable over time.

What Should Be Done After Breast Reduction Surgery?

Immediately after surgery, the breasts are covered with bandages and a surgical bra to hold them in place, and a drain may be placed under each arm to remove excess blood or fluid. You may take pain medication and the medication recommended by your doctor to reduce the risk of infection.

You will probably feel tenderness in your breasts during the first days or week after surgery. Your breasts may be swollen and bruised, and a front-closing surgical bra is worn to support them. You may need to limit physical activity for 4 to 6 weeks while your breasts heal, and you should wear the recommended surgical bra consistently to allow healing and reduce swelling. It is a good idea to schedule a follow-up visit with your surgeon to check your recovery.

Successful breast reduction surgery can relieve pain in the upper back, neck and shoulders. It can also improve the ability to take part in physical activities and promote a better self-image. Some results may be noticeable right away, but it can take months for the swelling to subside completely and for the surgical scars to fade. The final result usually takes some time. However, keep in mind that aging, weight changes, pregnancy and other factors can change the shape and size of the breasts.