Breast Reduction

Breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) is a plastic surgery procedure that surgically reduces excessively large breast tissue, relieving physical discomfort, restoring body proportions, and significantly improving quality of life.

What Is Breast Reduction Surgery?

Excessively large breasts, also known as macromastia, can cause serious physical and psychological consequences beyond being an aesthetic concern. Neck, back, and shoulder pain, skin rashes, posture problems, and exercise limitations are among the most common issues.

In reduction mammoplasty, excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are surgically removed; the nipple-areola complex is repositioned higher to achieve an aesthetic shape. The procedure also provides a natural lifting (mastopexy) effect.

Who Is a Candidate?

• Those experiencing neck, back, and shoulder pain caused by breast weight
• Those with skin irritation or eczema in the inframammary fold
• Those dissatisfied with excessively large breasts that disrupt body proportions
• Those who have difficulty finding properly fitting clothes
• Those experiencing exercise limitations
• Those who have developed posture problems due to breast size

Breast Reduction Techniques

Lollipop (Vertical) Technique

Performed through a circular incision around the areola and a vertical incision extending downward. Ideal for moderate reductions; leaves fewer scars.

Inverted T (Anchor) Technique

Consists of a combination of periareolar + vertical + horizontal inframammary incisions. The most commonly used technique for reducing large volumes.

Liposuction-Assisted Reduction

In breasts with high fat content, liposuction is used as an additional method to reduce volume and minimize surgical scars.

Procedure Steps

1. Evaluation and Planning

Breast size, skin quality, nipple position, and desired final volume are assessed to determine the technique and incision plan.

2. Anesthesia

General anesthesia is administered. The procedure takes 2–4 hours.

3. Tissue Removal

Excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are surgically removed; the nipple-areola complex is repositioned.

4. Reshaping and Closure

The breast cone is reshaped; incisions are closed with fine sutures and a sterile dressing is applied.

Advantages

• Physical relief: Pain and pressure complaints are immediately reduced
• Posture improvement: Forward leaning and shoulder hunching are eliminated
• Aesthetic shape: A lifted, proportional breast appearance
• Active lifestyle: Exercise and sports activities become easier
• Clothing freedom: Difficulty finding the right size is eliminated
• Psychological benefit: Self-confidence and body satisfaction increase

Recovery Process

• Days 1–3: Heaviness and tightness in the chest; managed with pain relievers
• Days 7–10: Sutures are removed or dissolve
• Weeks 2–3: Daily activities can be resumed
• Weeks 4–6: Exercise and sports can be started
• Months 6–12: Scars fade, and the final shape becomes defined

Before and After Surgery

Before

• Blood thinners should be discontinued 10 days prior
• Smoking must be stopped 3 weeks before
• Mammography and breast ultrasonography should be performed

After

• A surgical bra should be worn for 6–8 weeks
• Avoid raising arms above the head for the first 2 weeks
• Sun protection and silicone gel are recommended for scars

Breast Reduction at Estetistanbul

At Estetistanbul Medical Center, breast reduction surgeries are performed by our expert plastic surgery team with the goal of relieving physical complaints and achieving aesthetic balance. The most suitable technique is determined based on each patient's body structure and expectations; functional and aesthetic outcomes are planned together.