Breast reduction

A guide to understanding breast reduction surgery

Breast reduction, or reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to reduce the volume of excessively large breasts. It is a complex operation that requires a high level of skill and precision in order to achieve appropriate symmetry between both breasts.

The surgeons of the Grupo Pedro Jaén Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery Unit are experts in performing breast reduction surgery.

Although breast reduction may be carried out for purely aesthetic reasons, it is often indicated to relieve physical problems that significantly impair a woman’s quality of life, such as neck and back pain, skin irritation in the inframammary fold, breathing difficulties, or abrasions caused by bra straps and underwires in cases of excessively large breasts.

In most cases, breast reduction surgery is accompanied by correction of the size and shape of the areola, in order to achieve a smaller, firmer breast that is more proportionate to the rest of the body.

Planning a reduction mammoplasty

Ideally, before scheduling breast reduction surgery, it is important to confirm that breast growth has been completed. However, if breast volume causes significant physical discomfort and functional problems, surgery may be considered earlier.

Prior to surgery, the specialist assesses the condition of the breasts, their size, the extent of the intervention and the guidelines the patient should follow in the days leading up to surgery, such as avoiding smoking or temporarily discontinuing certain medical treatments or vitamin supplements.

What breast reduction surgery involves

Reduction mammoplasty is performed in an operating theatre under general anaesthesia. As it is more complex than breast augmentation or breast lift procedures, an overnight hospital stay is often required. It is a lengthy operation, as careful attention must be paid to details such as the size and position of the areola and nipple.

The surgical technique involves removing excess skin, fat and breast tissue from the sides of the breast and lifting the central breast tissue, while also repositioning the nipple to ensure correct orientation. This surgical step requires meticulous planning in order to avoid asymmetry.

This process involves elevating the main breast tissue and redistributing volumes. It is essential to perform the surgery with sufficient precautions to ensure that the remaining tissue is as similar as possible in both breasts. Once the surgical correction has been completed, a dressing is applied to the operated area.

“In general, the best outcomes are achieved by combining different therapeutic options and intervening at an early stage”

Recovery after reduction mammoplasty

After breast reduction surgery, the breasts will remain swollen for several weeks. To promote effective and faster tissue drainage, the surgeon may recommend manual lymphatic drainage sessions at our Beauty and Wellness Unit.

As with any surgical procedure, abstaining from smoking and following the surgeon’s instructions are essential to support proper healing. In breast reduction surgery, particular care must be taken with nipple healing in order to achieve an optimal result.

During the first few days, it is normal for the patient to feel weak and tired, although complete rest is not required. Pain and discomfort usually respond well to standard analgesics, and sensations of burning, pressure or increased sensitivity in the operated area gradually subside.

After the dressing is removed a few days later, patients are generally advised to wear a special support bra for the period determined by the specialist, depending on individual recovery.

Breast reduction surgery usually requires a longer recovery period than other breast procedures. While patients may resume an almost normal routine within two or three days after surgery, returning to work may take approximately two to three weeks. During this time, significant physical exertion and intense physical activity should be avoided.

As a general rule, the breasts settle into their new position around six to eight weeks after surgery. Until that time, final results should not be assessed, as the breasts may still appear swollen and positioned higher than their final location.

After breast reduction surgery

In some cases, patients may experience increased breast pain with the first menstrual cycle following reduction mammoplasty. This is a completely normal symptom and does not indicate any complication related to the procedure.

In principle, breast reduction surgery is not recommended for women who plan to breastfeed in the future. However, this issue is discussed with the surgeon prior to surgery, allowing the patient to plan future pregnancy and breastfeeding accordingly.

Breast reduction involves larger incisions than other breast procedures, which increases the risks related to scar evolution and appearance. For this reason, the Grupo Pedro Jaén Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery Unit works closely with the Scars Unit when necessary, to perform targeted treatments or refinements aimed at making scars as discreet as possible.

More information

Below you will find the authorship and references for the information provided on this page: