BREAST REDUCTION

The term mammoplasty refers to the art of sculpting and shaping breast tissue with different surgical techniques, achieving an anatomical, functional, and aesthetic result.

Over the years, genetic factors and, in some cases, pregnancy and breastfeeding have their effect on the mammary gland.

Patients distressed by the volume and weight of their breasts — not only for aesthetic reasons but also because of discomfort and physical alterations — are candidates for this type of surgery.

Breast reduction surgery transforms heavy, pendulous breasts into smaller, lighter ones, improving neck, shoulder, and back pain.

The change in self-esteem, improvement in emotional state, and ease of performing sports activities are among the many benefits.

It can be performed at any age, but I recommend waiting until glandular growth has been completed.

Consultation Process

During your consultation I will evaluate the volume, shape, and degree of drooping of your breasts, as well as the quality and elasticity of your skin. We will discuss how much reduction you are seeking and what size and shape you would like to achieve. I will explain which surgical technique is most appropriate for your anatomy and show you examples of similar results. Pre-operative mammography and ultrasound are part of the standard evaluation for patients over 35.

Surgical Technique

Breast lift or mastopexy — a term implicit in breast reduction surgery — uses the patient's own tissue to lift and reshape drooping breasts while removing excess volume and skin.

When examining your breasts, I consider the size, shape, skin quality, position of the areola-nipple complex, and the desired outcome to determine the best surgical approach (the design and location of surgical incisions).

Surgical time is 2 to 4 hours; hospitalization is generally not required.

Step-by-Step Procedure Description

Under general anesthesia, I remove the predetermined volume of glandular tissue and excess skin. The areola-nipple complex is repositioned to a natural, higher position without detaching it from the blood supply. I reshape the remaining breast tissue to create a firmer, more lifted contour before closing the incisions in layers.

The result is smaller, lighter, better-shaped breasts with the nipples repositioned at an anatomically appropriate height. Incision patterns vary by case — some require only a periareolar scar, while others use vertical or anchor-shaped incisions, all of which are carefully placed in natural skin folds.

Pre-Surgical Examinations

Basic tests include: complete blood count, PT, PTT, platelets (coagulation tests), creatinine and urinalysis (kidney function tests).

Breast ultrasound and mammography are required for every woman over 35 years of age who will undergo breast surgery.

Other specialized tests should be considered for certain patients.

Recovery Timeline

Days 1–3: Rest at home with your chest supported by a surgical bra. Local ice for the first 24 hours, then gentle local heat. Expect moderate soreness, managed with prescribed analgesics and antibiotics.

Week 1: Most patients feel significantly more comfortable. Light activities are possible. Continue wearing the surgical bra. Avoid raising your arms above shoulder height or carrying heavy items.

Weeks 2–3: Swelling decreases considerably. You may return to desk work and light daily activities. The new breast shape is becoming visible, though some swelling remains.

Month 1: A supportive bra continues. Most patients return to normal non-strenuous work. Exercise is limited to light walking.

Months 2–3 and beyond: Scars begin to fade and soften. Most physical activities can be resumed. The final shape is visible as swelling fully resolves.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery

Home rest for 3 to 5 days.

Local ice for 24 hours, then local heat from the second post-operative day.

Antibiotics and analgesics for 7 days.

Use of a medical bra that protects and provides support for 3 to 4 weeks.

Pain tolerance, response to swelling, and the scarring process create individual differences in recovery time.

Generally, 5 to 7 days of incapacity for work activities and 3 to 4 weeks for sports activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be able to feed my baby after breast reduction surgery?

In most cases you will be able to, as long as sufficient breast tissue is preserved and the appropriate surgical technique is selected for these cases. Additionally, the risk of loss of sensitivity in the nipple-areola complex area may have consequences for breastfeeding. I will explain and expand on this information during the medical consultation.

Will I have visible scars?

Some degree of scarring is unavoidable in breast reduction surgery. The incisions are placed in locations that are largely concealed by a bra or swimsuit. Scars fade significantly over 12–18 months and most patients consider the relief from physical discomfort well worth it.

How much smaller will my breasts be?

We will discuss your goals together during the consultation. I aim to achieve a size that is proportionate to your body frame while fully addressing the physical complaints — neck and shoulder pain, skin irritation, and posture problems — that brought you to surgery.

Can breast reduction be covered by health insurance?

In cases where the surgery is medically indicated — for example, to relieve chronic back or neck pain — some insurers may cover part of the procedure. This varies by policy and country and is best verified directly with your insurer.

Will the results be permanent?

The result is long-lasting. Significant weight fluctuation or future pregnancies can affect the shape over time. Most patients maintain very good results for many years.

Why Choose Me?

With over 30 years of practice, I have performed breast reductions — a procedure I find deeply rewarding because of the immediate relief it provides. I address both the aesthetic and functional aspects: my goal is proportionate breasts that relieve physical discomfort while improving your appearance. I take care to plan incisions that minimize visible scarring.

Complications

Breast reduction is a safe procedure performed on many women every year without major complications. Like any surgery, it carries risks which we can detail during our consultation. Some of these complications may include:

• Poor scarring.
• Sensitivity alterations.
• Breast asymmetry.
• Infections.
• Hematomas.

Medications or substances that may increase the risk of complications should not be consumed.

Smoking may contraindicate the surgery.