Breast reduction - when your own breasts become a burden
Overly large breasts can have a considerable impact on the lives of those affected and become a burden. In addition to the disturbing appearance and the strain on the soul, overly large breasts can cause physical complaints. In addition to pain and tension in the spine - especially in the neck, with postural problems and headaches, this also includes visible marks and chafed areas caused by bra straps, as well as eczema, inflammation and other skin problems on the underside of the breast.
Enlarged breasts can be hereditary, caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy, breastfeeding or the menopause, but can also result from weight gain.
Although the costs of this procedure are often not covered by health insurance, in many cases it is not a purely aesthetic procedure, but a medically sensible one that quickly leads to a very high level of satisfaction among the women affected.
Brief overview of breast reduction:
Duration of treatment:
3-4 hours
Anaesthesia:
General anaesthesia
Follow-up treatment:
Compression bra for 6 weeks
Load restrictions:
2 weeks
Associated terms:
Breast reduction, reduction plastic surgery, breast reduction
Which surgical techniques are used for a breast reduction?
There are different surgical techniques for breast reduction that can be used depending on the existing breast findings and skin quality. In the so-called I-incision technique, the incisions run around the areola to be reduced and then vertically as a line to the lower breast fold. A further scar along the inframammary fold may be necessary (T-incision technique) and is usually barely visible through the overlying breast. In order to achieve a stable breast shape in the long term, the newly shaped breast tissue is fixed to the chest muscles, forming a so-called "inner bra".
How is breast reduction surgery performed?
A breast reduction is a surgical procedure in which excess breast tissue is removed to reduce the size and weight of the breasts and thus change their shape. The nipple is also lifted during the reduction. This is usually done without affecting the nerves and vessels in this area, which are important for blood circulation and sensitivity. Nevertheless, the sensation in the nipple may be reduced due to the scarring. The ability to breastfeed may also be restricted after this procedure, even if the operation is performed while maintaining the ability to breastfeed.
The operation is performed under inpatient conditions under general anaesthetic and takes three to four hours, depending on the technique and findings. To support the shape of the breast during the healing phase, we recommend wearing a compression bra for six weeks, both during the day and at night. The wound drains inserted during the operation can usually be removed after one to two days and the suture material after two weeks. In general, you will be largely symptom-free again after just a few days and, depending on your professional activity, will be able to work after two weeks. However, if there are no complications, you should only resume sport after around six weeks. The final result is usually achieved after three to six months.
According to current studies, the individual risk of breast cancer is reduced by removing glandular tissue during breast reduction.
What needs to be considered after breast reduction surgery?
After a breast reduction, it is important to take it easy to avoid complications and achieve an optimal result. Here are some tips on what you should bear in mind after the operation:
- Wear a special bra that supports and protects your breasts. This should be worn day and night for at least six weeks.
- Avoid physical exertion, heavy lifting and sport for at least four weeks, as this can impair wound healing and lead to bleeding or infection.
- Sleep on your back or side to avoid unnecessary pressure on the breasts.
- Treat the scars with a moisturising cream and protect them from direct sunlight to prevent hyperpigmentation.
- Take your painkillers, antibiotics and other medication as discussed with us
- Check your breasts regularly for swelling, redness, warmth, fluid leakage or other signs of infection or seroma (an accumulation of fluid under the skin). If you notice such symptoms, please contact us immediately
Questions and answers about breast reduction