Breast Reduction

Breast reduction is a surgical procedure to aesthetically reduce excessively large breasts that cause neck and back pain and create grooves in the shoulders due to bra straps.

When should you consider breast reduction surgery?

If you are considering breast reduction surgery, you should first reach your ideal weight before the procedure. Breast reduction performed at an appropriate weight for your height typically yields better aesthetic results and shorter scar lengths.

How should you prepare for breast reduction surgery?

It is absolutely necessary to quit smoking before the surgery. Our recommendation is to stop smoking at least four weeks before the surgery and refrain from smoking for at least four weeks afterward. Once you've lost weight and quit smoking, you can start looking for a plastic surgeon to perform your breast reduction surgery.

Which technique is used for breast reduction surgery?

Every surgeon employs different techniques. I use the superior pedicle technique, which leaves an inverted-T-shaped scar and maintains sensation and circulation to the nipple from the superior side. The surgery involves an incision starting around the nipple, extending vertically down the midline of the breast, and continuing along the inframammary fold.

Should a special bandage or bra be worn after surgery?

After breast reduction surgery, you will need to wear a special front-zip sports bra for six weeks.

Will your bra size change after surgery?

The numerical size of your bra (e.g., 75, 80, 90, 95, etc.), which represents the circumference of your chest, remains the same after breast reduction surgery. However, the cup size (A, B, C, D, etc.), which corresponds to breast volume, will change as desired. Patients with D or C cups often seek breast reduction surgery due to neck pain, difficulty finding clothing that fits well, and the discomfort caused by bra straps digging into their shoulders. After surgery, these patients typically achieve a B cup, though achieving an A cup is nearly impossible.

Are scars permanent after surgery?

Patients with D cups will have inverted-T-shaped scars after breast reduction surgery. These scars are permanent, but over time they heal well and become less noticeable, though they never completely disappear. After surgery, patients' activity levels and social participation often increase significantly, and the procedure contributes to improved overall health.

Does breast reduction cause cancer?

Breast reduction surgery does not cause breast cancer. In fact, pre-surgery screenings and regular follow-ups for these patients help detect any potential issues early.

When do scars from breast reduction surgery fade?

The scars from breast reduction surgery are initially pink or red and raised for the first two months. Scar treatment, guided by your doctor, typically begins two weeks after surgery. By the third month, scars become less noticeable, and by the sixth month, they significantly fade. After one year, they become fine lines.

Does breast reduction surgery cause a loss of sensation in the breasts?

No, breast reduction surgery does not result in a loss of sensation in the breasts.

Can breast reduction be combined with abdominal or thigh liposuction?

Yes, breast reduction surgery can be performed together with abdominal and thigh liposuction.

Is breast reduction surgery difficult?

Breast reduction surgery is not a particularly difficult procedure. Patients may experience mild pain for the first two days, but they can typically return to their daily activities the next day.

Is breast reduction surgery risky?

Like all surgeries, breast reduction carries some risks, such as complications during wound healing, but it has no specific unique risks.

Can breast reduction surgery be performed without general anesthesia?

No, breast reduction surgery cannot be performed without general anesthesia. It requires general anesthesia.

Can breast reduction be done with a laser?

No, breast reduction cannot be performed with a laser. It is only possible through surgery.

What is breast reduction in men called?

In men, breast reduction is called gynecomastia surgery.

Can you breastfeed after breast reduction surgery?

After breast reduction surgery, there will likely be a decrease in milk production. Therefore, it is generally recommended that patients undergo the surgery after completing breastfeeding.

How long does recovery take after breast reduction surgery?

The recovery period for breast reduction surgery is approximately two weeks.

When do scars from breast reduction surgery disappear?

Initially, scars from breast reduction surgery may appear pink or red and raised for the first two months. Your doctor will begin scar treatment two weeks after surgery. By the third month, scars become less visible, and by the sixth month, they fade significantly, becoming thin lines by the end of the first year.

Does the state cover breast reduction surgery?

Breast reduction surgery performed in private clinics is not covered by state insurance.