• Who is it for?

Any woman who has reached the age of 18, has large and heavy breasts with a bra that exceeds the number D and enjoys extreme general health, can undergo the reduction procedure. A large percentage of women, already from adolescence, suffer from protic breasts and seek a solution, usually in vain, through constant support with a bra. The goal is to create a beautiful and firm breast that does not interfere with daily activities and gives well-being and pleasure.

• The first visit to the doctor’s office

Breast reduction is an operation that affects both the aesthetic image and the functionality of the breast. For this reason, the candidate’s desire to create a specific breast size and shape is taken seriously by the Plastic Surgeon, who will judge whether the candidate’s claims and expectations are realistic. Once they reach an agreement, some measurements are made, and photos are taken for a later comparison. There are different degrees of ptosis and depending on the case, the appropriate surgical treatment is decided. At this stage, information about possible complications and expected results is very important. The relevant procedural matters of the operation are arranged later.

• Is breast reduction surgery painful?

This is an operation that involves minimal pain, mainly postoperatively. Of course, it depends on the temperament of each candidate and the skill of the Plastic Surgeon, so that no injury has been caused. In any case, even as a precaution, analgesics are given for a shorter remission of the pain.

• What complications may occur?

Complications are always possible after a surgery. However, they are minimized when the patient follows all the postoperative instructions. Some of the complications that can occur are swelling, hematoma or inflammation, the appearance of redness on the scars, which can be soothed by the application of antibiotic cream, the presence of asymmetry or deformity. More rarely, nipple sensation may be affected, or the nipple areola may undergo necrosis. All complications are manageable and in any case the Plastic Surgeon must be informed about them, so that they can be dealt with in a timely manner.

• What kind of medical tests will be needed before breast reduction?

Initially, the candidate’s medical history is reviewed, and smoking cessation and anticoagulants are encouraged. Then a series of tests are performed such as general blood tests, a blood coagulation test, a biochemistry test, a cardiogram and a chest x-ray. In some cases, a mammography or ultrasound may be requested.

• How long does breast reduction surgery last and what kind of anesthesia is required?

The duration depends on the degree of the problem, the size and the shape of the breast. The operation usually lasts 3 to 4 hours along with a simultaneous breast lift. For better management and less injury to the patient, the use of general anesthesia is recommended. Priority is given to patient safety and protection.

• During the operation

This is a personalized operation. Every woman’s breasts are different, therefore the technique that will be used in each case is not the same. Initially, the area where the incisions will be made is drawn (anchor shape). If the breast is oversized and displays a large ptosis, then the incisions will be larger. Otherwise smaller incisions, characteristic of vertical mammoplasty will be performed. The excess fat, mammary gland and excess skin are then removed, and the nipple is repositioned at a higher point. The size of the nipple areola is often transformed. Then the skin is pulled down, to form the shape of the now renewed breast. The stitches for suturing the incisions, if they are not absorbable, are removed after 2 weeks.

• After the operation

Due to the use of general anesthesia for the operation and for precautionary reasons, the patient needs to spend the night in the clinic for 24 hours and leave the next day, after the drainage is removed. For 1 month she will constantly wear a supportive elastic bra that will bring the quick recovery of the affected area and will prevent any injuries. To avoid any pain, mild analgesics and medical instructions are provided that will help relieve the symptoms and heal the breast.

• Does breast reduction have any effect on breastfeeding?

It is worth noting that in the upcoming pregnancy, there is no complication in the process of breastfeeding, as during the operation the milk ducts and nipples are not affected. However, due to pregnancy, the anatomy of the breast can change, i.e. its size and shape.

• In how many days can one return to their daily activities?

At first the patient will feel a discomfort and a weight, so in the first week the body needs to rest. However, it is possible to engage in light work. After 1 or 2 weeks the patient will be able to return to work depending on the nature of the work and following a medical recommendation. For a period of about 2 months, she should avoid lifting weights and doing intense exercise in order to reduce the chances of a complication or injury.

• Results

The results are perfected within 3-6 months. The chest is noticeably lighter, firmer, and symmetrical compared to the other anatomical features of the body. The aesthetic result lasts for years if a healthy lifestyle is followed, without significant fluctuations in body weight, which will affect the size and shape of the breasts. Now every woman can enjoy her renewed breasts without hesitation, discomfort and negative thoughts.