Reduction mammaplasty
Breast reduction removes selected breast tissue, fat and skin while reshaping and lifting the breasts. It may improve heaviness, shoulder-grooving, skin irritation and activity limitation, although symptom relief and final size cannot be guaranteed.
The desired reduction is balanced against blood supply, tissue quality and safe nipple position. Scars usually surround the areola and extend vertically, with an additional fold scar when more tissue and skin must be removed.
Breastfeeding ability can be reduced or lost after reduction, and nipple or breast sensation may change temporarily or permanently. These possibilities are particularly important for patients planning future pregnancy. Pregnancy and weight change can alter the result.
Swelling, bruising, tightness and activity restriction are expected. Possible complications include bleeding, infection, delayed healing, asymmetry, visible or widened scars, fat necrosis, altered sensation, inability to breastfeed and partial or complete compromise of the nipple-areola complex. Larger reductions and smoking can increase risk.
Send front and oblique photographs together with age, height, weight, symptoms, pregnancy and breastfeeding plans, smoking status, previous breast surgery and screening history.
Medical content reviewed by Dr. Telman Arakelyan. The safe reduction amount and expected scar pattern require examination.
