Breast Reduction

Breast reduction surgery is a surgical procedure aimed at reducing large and sagging breasts aesthetically and functionally, bringing them into proportion with the body, and improving the patient’s quality of life. In addition to aesthetic appearance, it is an effective method for addressing physical issues such as back and neck pain, posture problems, sweating, rashes, and shoulder slumping.

What is Breast Reduction?

In this procedure, also called reduction mammoplasty, excess breast tissue, skin, and fat are surgically removed. At the same time, the nipple is repositioned to an ideal location, and a symmetrical, upright, and aesthetic breast shape is created.

Breast reduction, which is both an aesthetic and functional operation, aims to eliminate the physical and psychological burden caused by large breasts.

Who is Suitable for Breast Reduction Surgery?

If you have one or more of the following conditions, you may be a suitable candidate for breast reduction surgery:

  • If the size of your breasts negatively affects your daily life

  • If you experience back, neck, and shoulder pain

  • If you have sweating, rashes, or fungal infections under your breasts

  • If bra straps leave marks on your shoulders

  • If you have difficulty choosing clothes

  • If you have confidence issues due to the shape of your breasts

  • If your general health is good and you have realistic expectations

Pre-Breast Reduction Surgery Process

Before the surgery, the patient’s expectations, breast structure, skin elasticity, nipple position, and any asymmetry are evaluated in detail. If necessary, tests such as breast ultrasound or mammography may be requested.

In operation planning:

  • How much tissue will be removed

  • The new position to which the nipple will be moved

  • The incision shape to be used

  • Whether the nipple and milk ducts will be preserved

are evaluated in detail.

How is Breast Reduction Surgery Performed?

  • It is performed under general anesthesia.

  • The average surgery duration is between 2.5 – 4 hours.

  • Excess skin, breast gland, and fat tissue are removed.

  • The nipple is moved to its new position and aesthetically shaped.

  • T-shaped or lollipop (vertical) incisions are usually preferred.

  • It is closed with aesthetic sutures, and a drain may be placed.

Incision Techniques:

  1. Lollipop Incision (Vertical Scar): A vertical incision running down from the nipple. It leaves less scarring.

  2. Inverted T Incision: An incision extending towards the underside of the breast. Preferred for large breast reductions.

Recovery Process

  • Mild pain, swelling, and bruising may be seen for a few days after surgery.

  • Generally, staying in the hospital for 1 night is sufficient.

  • Wearing a bra is mandatory for the first 2 weeks. Afterwards, special medical bras are recommended.

  • You can return to daily life within 1 week.

  • For physical activities and sports, you should wait 4-6 weeks.

  • Stitches are usually hidden and dissolve on their own.

Scars fade over time and become aesthetically unnoticeable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I breastfeed after breast reduction?
Milk ducts are preserved as much as possible. However, in cases requiring significant reduction, breastfeeding capacity may decrease.

Will there be scars after surgery?
Yes, but scars are planned aesthetically and lose their prominence over time.

Will reduced breasts grow back?
Weight gain, hormonal changes, and pregnancy may cause some regrowth. However, results are generally permanent.

Is there a lot of pain after surgery?
Generally, there is mild pain that can be easily controlled with prescribed painkillers.

Breast Reduction Prices

Prices vary depending on the amount of tissue to be removed, techniques to be applied, hospital conditions, and duration of surgery. Dr. Alper Eskalen provides personalized planning and pricing considering the needs of his patients.