Medical description
Breast reduction, or reduction mammaplasty, treats breast hypertrophy, that is, breast volume that is excessive in relation to body shape. It involves removing part of the breast tissue, fat and skin, then reshaping the breast and lifting the areola, often reducing its diameter. Beyond the aesthetic aspect, it aims to relieve common functional problems: pain in the back, neck and shoulders, bra-strap marks, irritation in the crease beneath the breast, and difficulties with sport or clothing. It also corrects any associated sagging. The tissue removed is usually sent for analysis. The indication and the amount of tissue to be removed are determined by the surgeon after examination.
What the procedure can correct
- Breasts that are too heavy and large
- Pain in the back, neck and shoulders
- Marks and grooves left by bra straps
- Irritation beneath the breasts
- Difficulty with sport and clothing
- Significant asymmetry in volume
The ideal candidate
A woman in good health, at a stable weight, who is physically or psychologically troubled by the size of her breasts. The procedure is normally performed in adulthood, once breast growth is complete. Stopping smoking is essential, a recent breast assessment is required, and it is preferable not to be planning a pregnancy in the near future.
The technique
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. The surgeon removes the excess breast tissue, fat and skin, preserving a pedicle that maintains the blood supply and sensation of the areola, then lifts the areola and reshapes the breast. The scar is most often an inverted T (around the areola, vertical and in the crease beneath the breast), sometimes only vertical for moderate reductions. Additional liposuction may refine the sides. A dressing and then a support bra are worn for several weeks.
Your stay, step by step
- 1
Arrival and consultation
Welcome by your coordinator, examination and pre-operative consultation with the practitioner, who confirms the treatment plan.
- 2
Procedure
General · 2.5–4 h
- 3
Monitoring in the clinic
Hospital stay: 1–2 nights. The care team looks after your comfort and post-operative monitoring.
- 4
Check-up before departure
Follow-up visit, care, instructions and prescription before your flight home. Recommended stay: 8–10 days.
- 5
Remote follow-up
Back home, you send your photos and stay in touch with the practitioner through your patient area, for up to 12 months.
Risks and recovery
The usual after-effects include swelling, bruising, a feeling of tightness and moderate pain. Possible complications are haematoma, infection, separation of the wound, often at the junction of the T, fat necrosis, compromised blood supply or even partial necrosis of the areola, changes in sensation, asymmetry and thick scars; the ability to breastfeed may be reduced. Your surgeon will explain these in detail during the consultation.
The information on this page is provided for guidance only and does not replace a medical consultation. Every procedure carries risks; the indication is made by the practitioner after examination, and results vary from person to person.
Frequently asked questions
Will I be able to breastfeed after a breast reduction?
Breastfeeding is sometimes possible, but it may be reduced or impossible, as part of the breast tissue and ducts is removed. If this matters to you, discuss it with your surgeon before the procedure.
Can the breasts grow larger again?
The result is generally stable, but significant weight gain, pregnancy or hormonal changes may alter breast volume. A stable weight helps to preserve the result.
Can a breast reduction be combined with another procedure?
A combination with liposuction or a tummy tuck is sometimes possible, depending on your health and the total operating time. Your surgeon will decide what is reasonable after the examination.
