Procedure

The breast reduction procedure, also known as reduction mammoplasty or reduction mammoplasty, reduces and improves the breast size.  Women who are eligible for this procedure typically have symptoms that relate to their breasts' shape or weight. This includes back pain, neck discomfort, and bra strap grooves at the shoulders.  The final post-operative breast size and the size of the breasts before the operation will determine the size of the incisions. 

A vertical incision is made below the areola and around the nipple and is often performed with a short scar. This allows for a reduction in size and shape that's excellent while also limiting the amount of incisions.

Sometimes, it is necessary to remove the nipple/areola tissue and reapply as a graft in order to reduce very large breasts. However the removal and reapplication of the nipple/areola tissue can result in loss of nipple feeling and inability to breastfeed.  In addition, you can also select to reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple.  Furthermore, surgical incisions are very similar to a breast lift, except with this procedure, implants may not be necessary.

Length

The procedure can take between two to four hours depending on the technique used and the size of your breasts.

Anesthesia

General anesthesia is used with local anesthesia. However you can perform smaller reductions without general anesthesia by intravenous sedation.

Inpatient/Outpatient

Patients may be allowed to return home the same day or stay overnight at an aftercare facility depending on how large their breasts are and what type of anesthesia was used.

Possible side effects

Possible side effect are long-term swelling and delayed healing.

There are risks

There is always risk with any surgery. For instance risks associated with breast reduction range from; unfavorable scarring, loss nipple sensation and loss of breastfeeding ability, loss of nipple tissue and loss of breastfeeding ability, as well as unsatisfactory form and failure to meet aesthetic goals.  

Recovery

Recovery can take anywhere from one to two weeks. Most patients can return to their normal activities within this time. For three to six weeks, patients are advised not to engage in strenuous activities after surgery. In addition, it can take several months for the surgery to settle, and the shape will change slightly as it assumes a more rounded appearance. In conclusion, over time the surgical scars will fade.

Results

Patients who have had a reduction mammoplasty are happy with their breasts. Similarly they also love the relief they feel from the discomfort and pain previously caused by their breasts. Subsequently, patients enjoy being able to do more physical activities and can wear clothes that were uncomfortable or unattractive prior to breast reduction.

Cost of Breast Reduction

Costs of breast reduction can vary based on surgeon fees, anesthesia used, inpatient (hospital) or outpatient (day surgery), implant type (if used), method of insertion, and package inclusions.  Please ask your consultant for verification on what is/is not included.

Related Breast Procedures

Other common breast procedures include;

Next Steps

We are here to assist you with your journey. We recommend you make an inquiry and request a firmquote . This will ensure you receive a detailed cost breakdown of your procedure, with surgeon feedback.  We do not charge you for this service. Our consultants are very experienced with all our partners and can answer any questions you may have.