Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is a procedure to remove excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin to achieve a breast size more in proportion with the body and to alleviate the discomfort associated with excessively large breasts.
Large breasts can cause both physical and emotional distress for patients. Patients with macromastia may experience physical discomfort resulting from the weight of their breasts.

The resulting pain can make it challenging for some patients to perform common physical activities.


Along with the physical ailments of macromastia, some patients may suffer from emotional distress or more significant mental health problems as a result of their large breasts.

The procedure

Breast reduction procedures mast be performed in a hospital. The procedure is usually performed through incisions on your breasts with surgical removal of the excess fat, glandular tissue and skin under general anesthesia.
Incision may include a circular pattern around the areola, an inverted T or anchor-shaped incision pattern.
The incision lines that remain are visible and permanent scars, although usually well concealed beneath a swimsuit or bra.
After the incision is made, the nipple (which remains tethered to its original blood and nerve supply) is then repositioned. The areola is reduced by excising skin at the perimeter, if necessary.
Underlying breast tissue is reduced, lifted and shaped. Occasionally, for extremely large pendulous breasts, the nipple and areola may need to be removed and transplanted to a higher position on the breast (free nipple graft).
The results of breast reduction surgery are immediately visible. Over time, post-surgical swelling will resolve and incision lines will fade.

Recovery

When breast reduction procedure is complete, dressings or bandages will be applied to the incisions. An elastic bandage or support bra may be worn to minimize swelling and support the breasts as they heal.
A small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect.