Breast Reduction

What is Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty)?

Breast reduction surgery is a surgical procedure performed to eliminate aesthetic and physical problems caused by large and heavy breasts.
This operation reduces breast size by removing excess breast tissue, fat and skin, giving the breasts a more aesthetic and proportionate appearance.
Breast reduction is generally preferred by women who experience back, neck and shoulder pain due to excessively large breasts.

Breast reduction surgery is not only an operation for aesthetic purposes, but also a surgery that provides physical comfort.
The surgery improves the quality of life and provides better body balance.

Who Is Suitable for Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction surgery is a viable option for women who experience a variety of problems caused by large and heavy breasts.
The following are typical situations where breast reduction surgery is appropriate:

Back, neck and shoulder pain: Large and heavy breasts put excessive strain on the shoulders, neck and back.
This can lead to chronic pain over time.
Posture disorders: Large breasts can cause posture disorders by preventing the person from standing upright.
Difficulty with physical activity: Large breasts can limit freedom of movement during sports or daily activities.
Skin irritation: Sweat accumulation and friction in the skin fold under the breast can lead to irritation and skin problems.
Aesthetic concerns: Large breasts can make a person feel uncomfortable due to body disproportion.

Suitable candidates for breast reduction surgery are people in good general health, non-smokers and people with realistic expectations.
The results of the surgery may vary depending on the breast size and needs of the individual.

Before Breast Reduction Surgery

A detailed interview with your surgeon before breast reduction surgery is important for the successful and healthy progress of the process.
In this meeting, you should clearly express your expectations and complaints to your surgeon.
Your surgeon will inform you about how the surgery will take place, the healing process and possible risks.

The following steps can be followed before surgery:

Health assessment: Your general health condition will be evaluated before surgery and any existing health problems will be reviewed.
In addition, imaging tests such as mammography may be requested to evaluate the breast tissue.
Surgery planning Breast reduction surgery is planned individually for each individual.
Your surgeon evaluates your breast size and body proportions and determines the amount of breast tissue to be removed.
Preparation: If you were a smoker before surgery, it is recommended that you quit at least two weeks before surgery.
Smoking can negatively affect the healing process.
Also, if you are taking blood thinners, it is important to inform your surgeon.

How is Breast Reduction Surgery Performed?

Breast reduction surgery is a procedure that is usually performed under general anesthesia and the operation time takes about 2 to 4 hours.
The surgeon can use various surgical techniques to reduce breast size.
Breast reduction surgery is performed in the following steps:

Making the incisions: The surgeon makes incisions to remove breast tissue.
The most commonly used incision techniques are:
- Circumferential incision: A circular incision is made around the nipple.
  This method can be used for small breasts.
- Anchor-shaped incision: An inverted “T” shaped incision is made downward around the nipple and extending to the inframammary fold.
  This technique is generally preferred for large breasts.
Removal of excess tissue and skin: Excess breast tissue, fat and skin are removed.
During this procedure, the breast size is reduced and a more aesthetic shape is given.
Liposuction (fat removal) can also be performed if necessary.
Repositioning of the nipple: The nipple is moved upwards to match the new breast size and shape.
The position of the nipple is adjusted to achieve a natural and symmetrical appearance.
Closing the incisions: After the incisions are closed, the breasts are reshaped and stitched.
Since the stitches are hidden under the skin, postoperative scars become indistinct over time.

After surgery, the breasts are bandaged and a surgical bra is worn.
This bra supports the breasts and makes the healing process more comfortable.

Postoperative Recovery Process

The recovery process after breast reduction surgery may vary from person to person, but in general, patients can return to light daily activities within a few days.
Full recovery may take 4 to 6 weeks.
Some points to be considered after surgery are as follows:

Pain and swelling: Mild pain and swelling after surgery is normal.
Your surgeon may give you pain medication to relieve these symptoms.
Surgical bra You may need to wear a surgical bra during the healing process.
This bra allows the breasts to heal and maintain the new shape.
Physical activities: Heavy lifting and strenuous physical activities should be avoided for the first few weeks.
It is especially important to avoid movements that strain the arms.
Doctor check-ups: Regular visits to the doctor during the healing process are important for the healthy progress of the process.

Your surgeon will give you detailed information about postoperative care and recovery.
Following these instructions carefully will help you have a faster and smoother recovery.

Risks of Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery is generally a safe procedure, but as with any surgical operation, there may be some risks and complications.
These risks include the following:

Infection
Bleeding
Delayed wound healing
Decreased nipple sensitivity
Asymmetry (difference in size or shape between breasts)
Keloid or hypertrophic scar (abnormal scar formation)

To avoid these risks, it is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully and to be careful in the postoperative period.