Breast Reduction
Breast Reduction
Reduction mammoplasty
How it works
Breast reduction surgery, also called reduction mammoplasty, involves removing part of the breast tissue and skin to create a more harmonious breast shape adapted to the woman’s body and to reposition the nipple closer to its ideal position. Liposuction of the lateral extensions of the breast is often added to the technique to improve the result.
Breast hypertrophy can be a social stigma and, in more severe cases, may be associated with back and neck pain and marks from bra straps on the shoulders. Maintaining an appropriate body weight is important for greater surgical safety and more reliable, long-lasting results.
Videos
Videos
Optional associated procedures
Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about breast reduction.
What is breast reduction intended to achieve?
Breast reduction decreases breast size and aims to improve the physical and emotional symptoms associated with very large breasts.
What is done during breast reduction surgery?
Part of the breast tissue and skin is removed to reshape the breast and reposition the nipple closer to its ideal position.
Can breast reduction be combined with liposuction?
Yes. Liposuction of the lateral extensions of the breast is often added to improve the result.
What symptoms can be associated with very large breasts?
They may be associated with back and neck pain, marks from bra straps on the shoulders, and emotional or social effects.
Why is an appropriate body weight important?
An appropriate body weight contributes to greater surgical safety and more reliable, long-lasting results.
How long does the operation take?
The stated duration is approximately 1h30 to 2h30.
What type of anaesthesia is used?
The operation is performed under general anaesthesia.
What scars can result from the operation?
There may be a scar around the areola combined with a vertical scar, or these scars may be complemented by a horizontal scar along the inframammary fold, forming an inverted “T”.
How long is the hospital stay?
The stated hospital stay is 1 day.
When can I return to work?
Return to work may be possible after about 5–7 days, provided that it does not involve physical effort.
When can more intense physical activity be resumed?
More intense sports activity may be resumed from 6 weeks.
How long should the compression bra be worn?
The compression bra should be worn for 6 weeks, as recommended by the team.
How do the scars change over time?
After a few months, the scars tend to take on a shade similar to the surrounding skin and become less noticeable.
What risks and problems are described?
Possible effects include discomfort, swelling, delayed healing, a sensation of heat and changes in nipple sensitivity. Less frequent problems include excessive or hyperpigmented scarring, haematoma, infection or foci of fat necrosis.
How long do the results last?
The results may last for many years, although age-related loss of tissue elasticity, trauma, weight changes or pregnancy can alter breast shape.
This information is general and does not replace an individual medical assessment.