Before a breast reduction: consultation, preparation and recovery

In breast reduction the surgeon removes part of the breast tissue, fatty tissue and skin, shapes the breasts and moves the nipple and areola higher. This is why breast reduction is also a breast lift. The procedure can be done on both sides or on one, when the breasts differ significantly in size.

The plastic and aesthetic surgery price list of Maja Hospital includes bilateral breast reduction and unilateral breast reduction. Breast reduction is not the same as a breast lift without tissue removal, or implant removal. These procedures have separate pages on this site.

The reasons vary. Some women choose the procedure because of problems they link to the size and weight of their breasts, such as neck, back or shoulder pain, grooves from bra straps, skin irritation under the breasts or difficulty with physical activity. Others want breasts in proportion with the rest of their body or find it hard to find clothes.

Whether the procedure is suitable in your case is assessed by the plastic surgeon at the examination, taking into account health, body weight, age and plans for pregnancy and breastfeeding.

At the examination the plastic surgeon talks with you about your reasons and expectations, and asks about health, medicines, previous operations and pregnancy plans. They then examine the breasts and explain which type of procedure is possible, where the scars will be and what can realistically be expected. Before surgery the doctor may request a breast ultrasound or mammogram, depending on age and findings.

It is a good idea to ask at the examination:

• what the scars will be like and where,
• whether the procedure can affect breastfeeding and nipple sensation,
• what recovery looks like and when you can return to work,
• what the price includes.

The plastic surgeon and the anaesthetist decide on the preparation. In general:

• Tests and examinations requested by the surgeon and anaesthetist are done, as the procedure is usually under general anaesthetic.
• Tell the doctor which medicines and supplements you take, especially blood thinners. Do not stop any treatment on your own.
• Smoking slows wound healing, so surgeons usually advise stopping smoking before surgery and during recovery.
• It is best for body weight to be stable before the procedure.
• Follow the instructions on how many hours before surgery not to eat or drink, and arrange for someone to drive you home.

See the separate article on this site about what to bring to hospital.

Recovery differs from person to person, and the surgeon gives exact instructions. In general:

• In the first days the breasts are swollen and tender, and pain is eased with medicines prescribed by the doctor.
• The surgeon usually advises a recovery bra, worn for as long as they advise. Drains are sometimes placed after surgery and removed at a check-up.
• Walking from the first days helps recovery, while lifting, strenuous effort and exercise are avoided for several weeks, until the surgeon allows them.
• Swelling goes down gradually, and the final shape of the breasts and appearance of the scars are only seen after several months.
• Scars are red at first and become lighter and less visible over time, but they do not disappear.

Contact the surgeon without delay if you develop a fever, severe pain, rapidly increasing swelling of one breast, redness or pus in the wound.

Like any operation, breast reduction carries certain risks, such as bleeding, infection or slower wound healing. Nipple sensation may change, temporarily or permanently, and the ability to breastfeed may be reduced. The breasts may not be perfectly equal in shape and size. If body weight later changes significantly or there is a pregnancy, the shape of the breasts changes too.

At the examination the surgeon explains the risks in your case and answers questions before you decide.