A breast reduction, medically known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure to reduce and reshape the female breast. It can be performed for aesthetic or medical reasons, such as discomfort caused by very large breasts or to correct breast asymmetry (macromastia or gigantomastia).
🔍 Reasons for breast reduction
Medical:
Chronic back pain, neck or shoulder pain
Postural problems
Skin irritation under the breast
Bra straps cutting into the breast
Restricted mobility
Psychological stress
Psychological stress
Psychological stress
Desire for firmer, smaller breasts
⚙️ Surgery procedure
Preparation:
Instructional consultation with the plastic surgeon
Mammography or ultrasound if necessary
Blood tests, ECG, etc.
Surgical techniques:
T-incision: around the nipple, vertically downwards and in the inframammary fold for extreme macromastia
Lejour technique (state-of-the-art technique, scar-free, incision around the nipple and only vertically downwards)
Liposuction, especially for men with gynecomastia. (If necessary, an additional periareolar incision is required) Minimal scarring around the nipple is required)
Duration: 2–4 hours
Anesthesia: General anesthesia
Hospital stay: 1–3 days (depending on the procedure)
⏳ Healing & Aftercare
Rest period: Approx. 2 weeks of physical rest
Special bra: Wear for approximately 6 weeks
No exercise: At least 6 weeks
Scar care: Regular, sun protection for at least 6 months
Check-ups: Frequent follow-up examinations
⚠️ Possible Risks & Complications
Wound healing problems, infections
Impaired sensation in the breast or nipple (very rare)
Bruises or bleeding
Scarring (keloid-like scars in certain predispositions)
Breastfeeding ability may be limited (rare)
Asymmetries (very rare)
💰 Costs
Between €4,500 and €7,500 (depending on the procedure) Clinic, technology and specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery


