Breast reduction

Breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty) is a plastic surgery procedure that removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin so that the breasts become smaller, firmer and more symmetrical. It addresses not only aesthetic wishes but above all physical problems — chronic back, shoulder and neck pain, pressure marks from bra straps, limitations in sport or difficulty finding clothes. Many women describe significant relief from physical problems after a reduction, better posture and a new freedom in everyday life.

Who breast reduction is for

Breast reduction is most often sought by women with large, heavy breasts that cause long-term pain in the spine, shoulders, neck or upper back, skin irritation and chafing in the fold under the breast, restricted movement in sport, running or everyday activities, or emotional discomfort from feeling disproportionate and struggling to find clothes and bras. These problems often lead to a feeling of being limited, lower self-confidence and an overall lower quality of life.

The procedure is ideal for women who have finished growing (usually from 18), whose weight has stabilised (ideally at least 6–12 months without major fluctuations) and preferably after they have finished breastfeeding (at least 6–12 months after the last breastfeeding, so the breasts can settle). At this point the risk of needing another operation in future is lowest and the result most stable.

If large breasts limit you physically, emotionally or practically, come for a consultation — we will discreetly discuss your situation, measure the extent of the reduction and show you what natural, functional and aesthetic result is realistic for you.

How breast reduction is performed

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes 2–3 hours, depending on the size of the breasts, the amount of tissue removed and the extent of the reduction. The incision runs around the areola, vertically down to the fold under the breast and continues horizontally in the fold (the classic T technique, or anchor). Once fully healed, the scars are barely visible.

During the operation excess breast tissue, fat and loose skin are removed, while the remaining breast tissue is carefully reshaped and lifted so that the breasts gain a better shape, projection and firmness. The procedure always includes an adjustment of the areola — it is made smaller and moved to a higher, more natural position that suits the new shape of the breasts. Drains are placed for 2–3 days to remove excess fluid and prevent a haematoma or seroma. At the end of the operation a firm elastic bandage or a special compression bra is applied, which stabilises the new shape, supports healing and significantly reduces swelling.

The procedure is designed to be as safe as possible, with minimal risk of complications and the best possible long-term aesthetic and functional result.

Recovery and result

Recovery after breast reduction takes about 2 weeks. In the first week it is important to rest, wear the compression bra and avoid raising your arms above shoulder height. Swelling and bruising are most pronounced in this phase but gradually fade — after 10–14 days most women return to their normal daily activities. Full physical exertion is possible only after 6–8 weeks, when the tissues have fully healed and the risk of complications has dropped to a minimum.

Breast reduction is a long-lasting to permanent procedure — however, the result may be affected by natural processes over the years, so it is impossible to say in advance exactly how long it will last. The breasts stay smaller, lighter, firmer and more symmetrical, with much better proportions to the figure and a more balanced overall look. Many women describe a marked improvement in their quality of life after a reduction — real relief from chronic pain, better posture and easier movement in sport and everyday activities.

Breast reduction combined with liposuction

Breast reduction and liposuction are very often combined in practice, because together they give a more complete and aesthetically balanced result than a reduction alone. While a classic breast reduction surgically removes excess glandular tissue and skin, liposuction removes fat precisely from areas where there is too much of it — mainly from the sides of the breasts, the armpits, the transition to the chest wall or the flanks and upper abdomen. This combination achieves not only a smaller breast volume but also a much better shape, smoother contours and a more harmonious transition between the breasts and the torso.

When the combination with liposuction is suitable

• You have a lot of fat at the sides or in the armpits (the so-called “bra roll” or “side boob”), which a classic breast reduction alone does not address
• You want a more noticeably slimmer silhouette around the chest, waist or upper back
• Your breasts consist mostly of fat (common in women with a higher BMI)
• You want smoother transitions between the breasts and the torso without “steps” or unevenness
• You want to maximise the aesthetic result