Female Breast Reduction (Mammoplasty)

Breast reduction surgery is a highly effective method for alleviating discomfort in the neck, back, and shoulders, often experienced due to disproportionately large breasts. This procedure aims to reduce and reshape the breasts, resulting in a smaller, firmer, and more uplifted appearance.

A Transformative Procedure

At Champs-Élysées Aesthetic Medical Center, we perform breast reduction surgery to provide patients with breasts that are smaller, more proportionate, and better suited to their body shape. Also referred to as reduction mammoplasty or boob reduction, this surgical intervention can significantly alleviate the pain in the neck and back, as well as other physical discomfort associated with overly large breasts.

In addition to reducing breast size and weight, the procedure may involve reshaping the size and form of the areola or nipples to create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance. This surgery often results in increased self-confidence, as patients are no longer burdened by the discomfort and limitations of having excessively large breasts.

Benefits Of Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, offers a multitude of benefits for women struggling with the physical and emotional challenges posed by overly large breasts. Here are some of the primary advantages of breast reduction surgery:

  • Alleviates Physical Discomfort: Large breasts often lead to chronic pain and discomfort in the neck, shoulders, and back due to the weight they impose. Breast reduction surgery can significantly reduce breast size and weight, thereby relieving these physical symptoms and enhancing overall comfort.
  • Improves Posture: The weight of large breasts can also cause poor posture, leading to additional strain on back and neck muscles. Breast reduction surgery can help improve posture, relieving this strain and resulting in a more comfortable and healthy spinal alignment.
  • Enhances Physical Activity: Women with large breasts may find it challenging to engage in physical activities such as running, jumping, or even simple tasks like bending over. Breast reduction surgery can help women feel more at ease and confident while participating in physical activities, thereby improving their overall health and well-being.
  • Boosts Self-Confidence: Large breasts can lead to emotional distress, including self-consciousness, embarrassment, and low self-esteem. Breast reduction surgery can improve body image and self-confidence, allowing women to feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin.
  • Improves Clothing Fit: Large breasts can make it difficult to find clothing that fits properly and can be uncomfortable to wear. After breast reduction surgery, clothing tends to fit better, and women can enjoy a wider range of clothing options.
  • Reduces the Risk of Skin Irritation and Infections: Women with large breasts may be more prone to skin irritation, rashes, and infections, especially in the folds beneath the breasts. Breast reduction surgery can reduce the amount of skin in this area, decreasing the risk of such issues.

Breast Reduction Surgical Techniques

At our clinic, breast reduction surgery invariably incorporates a breast lift to achieve a higher and more suitable breast position after reduction. Two primary techniques are used:

  • Vertical Breast Reduction: In this approach, the surgeon removes excess breast tissue from the lower central area. The sides of the breast are then joined together, elevating the breast and providing a smaller, more uplifted profile. This method typically involves a “lollipop” incision, encircling the areola and extending vertically down the breast’s center. For cases requiring substantial tissue removal, an anchor scar may be necessary, which includes a horizontal incision along the natural breast crease.
  • Inverted T (Anchor) Incision: This technique is utilized for more extensive breast reductions or significant breast ptosis (sagging). It involves an incision around the nipple-areola complex, followed by a vertical incision down to the breast crease and a horizontal incision along the breast fold. While it may result in additional scarring, it’s essential to achieve optimal results for patients who require substantial breast tissue removal and lifting.

How Is Breast Reduction Surgery Performed?

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, typically takes around three to four hours, depending on the extent of correction and whether additional procedures, such as supplementary liposuction for the axillary region, are needed. The procedure involves the administration of general anesthesia. After thorough preoperative marking, the surgeon makes an incision, removing glandular tissue, fat, and skin from the breasts. This reshapes the breasts and reduces volume. Repositioning the nipples may also be necessary, but they remain attached to nerves and blood vessels. In extensive breast reduction surgeries, it might be necessary to detach the nipples and areola entirely before moving them upwards. In such cases, nipple sensation and the ability to breastfeed may be permanently affected.

Types of Breast Reduction – 3 Different Approaches to Surgery

In addition to different incision types, various glandular pedicle approaches can be employed for optimal results:

  • Inferior Pedicle: The most popular glandular pedicle technique used in breast reduction surgery. It is versatile, safe, and maintains nipple blood supply and sensation, as well as the ability to breastfeed. Often used with an inverted T-shaped incision for larger reductions.
  • Superior Pedicle: Ideal for patients requiring minor nipple elevation and tightening of inferior breast skin. Commonly used in breast lift and small breast reduction procedures with a short scar technique.
  • Medial Pedicle: A newer approach that maintains superior and medial fullness of the breast, enhancing breast cleavage. Versatile and suitable for small to very large breast reduction procedures, it can be combined with either a short scar or inverted T-shaped incision.
  • Scar Minimization Techniques

While incision lines are permanent, various techniques are available to minimize scarring. Advanced surgical methods aim to reduce scar tissue formation, and proper postoperative care can promote optimal healing. Although scars may be visible, they are typically concealed within a bra and tend to fade over time.

Recovery After Breast Reduction Surgery

As with any surgical procedure, breast reduction surgery carries some risks and potential complications. It’s essential to discuss these with your surgeon before the procedure and maintain realistic expectations regarding the outcome. Some common risks and complications include hematoma, seroma, infection, scarring, changes in sensation, asymmetry, the need for revision surgery, and potential complications with anesthesia. To minimize risks, choosing a qualified, experienced, and certified plastic surgeon is crucial, and it’s vital to follow all post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon.

Breast Reduction Surgery Cost

The cost of breast reduction surgery at Champs-Élysées Aesthetic Medical Center can vary depending on several factors, including the specific procedure, desired results, and time spent in the operating room. Typically, the overall cost encompasses the surgeon’s fee, anesthetist’s fee, hospital fees, and surgical aftercare and support.

During your consultation, your surgeon will conduct a thorough assessment of your medical history, examine your breast and body contours, and discuss potential risks associated with the procedure. You will receive an accurate cost estimate for your breast reduction surgery based on your specific requirements and goals.