Breast reduction: what is reduction mammoplasty and who needs it

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On the path to achieving their ideal figure, every woman has her own desires. Some dream of fuller breasts and resort to implants, while others seek to reduce excessively large breasts in pursuit of comfort and aesthetics.

Reduction mammoplasty is a surgical procedure to reduce breast size and correct its shape.

Renowned plastic surgeon and distinguished doctor of Ukraine Dmitry Slosser told ICTV Facts more about reduction mammoplasty.

Who needs reduction mammoplasty

Women with large breasts often experience pain in the back, neck, and shoulders. In addition, large breasts can affect posture, putting additional strain on the spine. Sometimes patients even experience discomfort during physical activity or sports.

The aesthetic aspect also plays an important role, as large breasts attract attention.

In some cases, reduction mammoplasty may even be recommended by a doctor to improve overall health.

“This operation relieves the patient of unpleasant pain in the back and lower back, inflammation and chronic skin infections under the breast fold, as well as psychological complexes and difficulties in choosing clothes,” explains the plastic surgeon.

How the operation is performed

The first important step for a patient who has decided to undergo reduction mammoplasty is to consult a qualified plastic surgeon.

Every body is unique, so during the consultation, the doctor examines the woman and works with her to determine realistic expectations for the outcome.

During preparation for the operation, the woman must undergo all the tests prescribed by the doctor.

The operation itself usually lasts about three to four hours. However, in some patients, the procedure of removing excess breast tissue, shaping an aesthetic contour, and closing the wound to reduce scarring requires more time.

Modern plastic surgery offers two different incision patterns for reduction mammoplasty.

• In most cases, doctors use a vertical breast reduction pattern. The incisions form a circle around the areola and a vertical straight line below. This pattern is suitable for patients with a moderate amount of tissue to be removed.
• For women with very large breasts or those who need significant tissue removal, the plastic surgeon uses an inverted T-shaped or anchor-shaped incision. This incision consists of a vertical line that runs down from the scar around the areola and a horizontal line under each breast.

Rehabilitation after surgery

During recovery, women should take extra care of themselves. If there is any deterioration in their condition, they should inform their plastic surgeon immediately.

Swelling and minor bruising in the operated area are completely normal and usually disappear within a few weeks.

Scars after breast reduction will appear pink for several months after healing.

“Since they are located on the lower part of the breasts, they will not be noticeable even if a woman wears a swimsuit or a top with a deep neckline,” adds Dr. Dmitry Sloser.

Many women are concerned about the risk of losing breast sensitivity after surgery. However, if reduction mammoplasty is performed by an experienced, qualified plastic surgeon, the risk of side effects is minimal.

After reduction mammoplasty, a woman will be able to lead a normal, active life and enjoy her new appearance, free from the discomfort and complexes that plagued her before the operation.

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