About the procedure
Large breasts cause neck and back pain, bra strap grooves and skin irritation. In breast reduction, excess tissue and skin are removed, the nipple is moved upward and the breast is reshaped.
The operation is both aesthetic and functional; the great majority of patients report that their pain decreases from the first week onward.
The goal of a reduction is not only to reduce volume but to move the nipple to its new position on a bridge of tissue (pedicle) that preserves its blood supply and sensation; the pedicle direction is chosen according to the size of the breast and the distance the nipple must travel. The amount of tissue to be removed and the target size are decided together with you, taking shoulder width and hip proportion into account. The removed tissue is routinely sent for pathological examination.
- ✓Relief from pain and posture complaints
- ✓Lifting effect in the same session
- ✓Permanent result
Suitability
Who is it suitable for?
May be suitable
- ✓Women with neck, back, and shoulder pain caused by the weight of their breasts.
- ✓Those whose bra straps leave permanent grooves in the shoulders and who have recurring rashes and fungal infections in the fold under the breast.
- ✓Those who feel that breast size limits them during exercise and in choosing clothes.
- ✓Patients with a marked size difference between the two breasts.
- ✓Adults whose breast development is complete and whose weight is relatively stable.
Should be postponed or is not suitable
- —In those planning significant weight loss, surgery is done after approaching the target weight.
- —In those still pregnant or breastfeeding, surgery waits until the breast tissue has settled.
- —Planning is not completed without age-appropriate breast screening (ultrasound or mammogram).
- —In patients who smoke and do not quit, surgery is postponed because of the risk to nipple blood flow.
The final decision on suitability is made after a physician examination and tests.
Process
How does it proceed, step by step?
- 01
Initial consultation
A first assessment is made from complaints, target size, and photographs; the approximate amount of tissue to be removed is discussed.
- 02
Screening and planning
In Istanbul, an examination, blood tests, and a breast ultrasound or mammogram according to age are done. Incision lines and the new nipple position are drawn while standing.
- 03
Procedure day
Under general anesthesia, excess tissue and skin are removed, the nipple is moved upward on its pedicle, and the breast is reshaped. A drain may be placed.
- 04
First check-up
The next day, nipple color and the dressing are assessed, the drain is removed, and you are discharged in a sports bra.
- 05
Pre-departure check-up
Suture lines are checked, the pathology result is shared, and a scar care schedule is given.
- 06
Remote follow-up
Healing is monitored with photographs; the course of pain complaints and scar maturation are followed for a year.
Recovery
Recovery timeline
Day 1
The reduced feeling of heaviness in the breasts is often noticed from the first day; pain is controlled with medication.
Days 3–5
Swelling and bruising are at their most noticeable. Short walks are taken, and the arms are not raised above the shoulders.
Week 1
You can return to light work. The junction of the inverted-T incision is the slowest area to heal; the dressing is kept dry and clean.
Month 1
Swelling has largely subsided, and the relief in back and shoulder pain becomes clear. Light cardio is allowed.
Month 3
The breast shape softens and the lower pole takes its natural slope. You return to a full exercise program and an underwire bra.
Year 1
Scars fade; the lasting shape and size are judged at this stage.
Timeframes are averages; they vary by person and by the scope of the procedure.
Results
Before / After
Before and after examples of Breast Reduction are shared during the consultation.
We show our patients' photos only within the scope of their written consent and in one-on-one consultations; we respect the wishes of patients who prefer not to be published on the open internet. Let us send you results from cases similar to yours together with the physician's assessment.
Let us be open
Risks and points to consider
Every medical procedure carries risks. The points below are the main known issues for this procedure; a risk assessment specific to you is made during the consultation.
- Reduced sensation in the nipple and areola; this is more common in large breasts and with long transfer distances, and can be permanent in some cases.
- Impaired blood flow to the nipple; in very large breasts the nipple may need to be moved as a free graft, in which case sensation and breastfeeding are lost.
- Wound separation and delayed healing at the junction of the inverted-T incision; it usually closes with dressings.
- Firm areas due to poor blood supply in the fat tissue (fat necrosis), and a difference in size or nipple height between the two breasts.
- Scars healing raised or dark; the risk is higher in patients with darker skin and along lines closed under tension.