Breast reduction

Breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty) is a surgical procedure intended for women who experience discomfort associated with excessive breast size. The procedure aims to improve the aesthetics of the breasts and may also reduce pain symptoms, such as back, neck or shoulder pain, as well as skin problems caused by chafing and irritation.

Patients often report difficulties with performing daily activities, problems finding suitable clothing and pain symptoms. The aim of breast reduction is to reduce the physical and psychological burden resulting from excessive breast size.

Indications

• chronic back, neck or shoulder pain caused by the weight of the breasts,
• recurrent skin irritation and chafing under the breasts,
• difficulties with physical activity due to breast size,
• dissatisfaction with the appearance of the breasts and body proportions.

Contraindications

• uncontrolled chronic diseases, such as diabetes or hypertension,
• active infections,
• tendency to pathological scarring,
• pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well as planning a pregnancy in the near future,
• blood clotting problems.

Preparation

The decision to undergo surgery requires a detailed consultation and an assessment of the patient’s health. I examine each patient thoroughly, and I plan the surgery in detail, tailoring it to her individual needs. Before the operation, a breast ultrasound must be performed.

How the procedure is performed

The operation is performed under general anaesthesia and lasts from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the extent of the correction. It involves the removal of excess glandular tissue, fat and skin, as well as reshaping of the breasts. During the operation:

• I reduce the volume of the breasts, adjusting it to the body’s proportions,
• I reposition the nipple and areola to the correct location,
• I ensure the aesthetic placement of scars.

Scars are located around the areola, vertically from the areola to the inframammary fold, and in the inframammary fold. After the procedure, the patient receives detailed recommendations regarding recovery and scar care.

After the procedure, the patient remains in the clinic for 1 day.

Recovery requires adherence to medical recommendations. Some swelling and bruising are to be expected. Discomfort is managed with painkillers and usually subsides within a few days.

• In the first weeks, wearing a special bra that stabilises the breasts and supports healing is recommended.
• For 6 weeks, intense physical exertion and lifting heavy objects should be avoided.
• Recommendations regarding scar care should be followed.

The full healing process takes several months, and only then is the final breast shape assessed.