Breast Reduction Reduction Mammoplasty

What Is Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction is a surgical procedure known medically as reduction mammoplasty. Its aim is to reduce the size of excessively large and heavy breasts, relieving physical discomfort while giving the breasts a more proportionate, lifted and balanced appearance. During the procedure, excess fat tissue, breast tissue and skin are removed; the nipple and surrounding area (areola) are repositioned when necessary.

For many women, breast reduction is not only an aesthetic choice but also a solution to years of back, neck and shoulder pain. For this reason it is one of the plastic surgery procedures with the highest reported satisfaction worldwide and in Türkiye.

Who is a suitable candidate for breast reduction?

Breast reduction is generally considered for people experiencing the following:

• Those with chronic back, neck and shoulder pain caused by large breasts
• People whose bra straps leave marks and grooves on the shoulders
• Those with skin problems under the breast such as sweating, redness and fungal infection
• Those who struggle during physical activity and sport and have difficulty finding suitable clothing
• Those experiencing posture problems or psychological discomfort due to breast size

Candidate assessment is individual. General health, smoking, expectations and the structure of the breast tissue are evaluated together during the examination. For proper planning, the procedure is generally not recommended before pregnancy and breastfeeding are complete.

Pre-operative preparation

During the consultation your complaints are listened to, the targeted size and the current structure of the breast are assessed, and a surgical plan tailored to you is created. Routinely before surgery:

• Blood tests and a general health assessment are carried out,
• breast imaging is requested — ultrasound under the age of 40 and mammography over the age of 40,
• if you smoke, you are advised to stop, as it negatively affects healing,
• the use of blood thinners and certain supplements is adjusted on your doctor's advice.

The surgical process

Breast reduction is performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 2.5–3 hours. The surgeon plans the appropriate technique and incision pattern based on breast size and the degree of sagging. The most commonly used incision patterns include one extending vertically from around the nipple down to the breast fold ("lollipop") and one that adds a horizontal incision along the fold ("inverted T / anchor"). Excess tissue is removed, the nipple is moved to the appropriate position, and the breast is reshaped to be firmer, lighter, and better proportioned.

Recovery process — step by step

Recovery varies by person and by the technique used; the timeline below is a general guide.

• First 48 hours: mild swelling, tenderness and tightness are normal. One night of hospital observation is usually recommended. Most patients can get up on the first day.
• Week 1: the first check-up takes place. The special surgical bra is worn continuously. Return to desk-based work is usually at about 1 week.
• Weeks 2–4: the period in which the swelling decreases markedly. The return to social life begins; heavy lifting and intense exercise are avoided.
• Months 3–12: the tissue settles fully, the scars begin to fade and the final, natural shape emerges.

About scars

In breast reduction, scars from the incisions remain; this is a natural result of the procedure. Scars appear more pronounced in the first months but usually fade over time and come closer to the skin colour. The care recommended by your surgeon (silicone tapes/gels, sun protection) is important to improve their appearance. The final state of the scars depends on the person's skin type and healing characteristics.

Is breastfeeding possible?

In many patients, breastfeeding may be possible after surgery, because the technique is performed preserving the milk ducts and nipple as much as possible. However, breastfeeding can never be guaranteed in any breast surgery. If you are planning to breastfeed in the future, it is recommended that you discuss this in detail with your doctor.