Breast Reduction Surgery
Dr. Richard Fakin / Plastic Surgery /
Breast reduction for improved comfort, proportion, and aesthetics
Madrid | Zurich
Breast reduction is considered a therapeutic procedure, particularly aimed at women who suffer from discomfort and pain associated with breast hypertrophy. Many patients of different ages experience back and neck pain, skin irritation, redness, or burning sensations, among other issues.
By undergoing a breast reduction, these symptoms can be significantly alleviated or even eliminated. The primary goal of this surgery is not only to decrease breast size but also to achieve a more harmonious and elegant figure. In addition, it helps improve the quality of life of our patients, enabling them to engage in sports activities without pain and boosting their self-esteem.
Breast Reduction: surgical techniques and scars
There are innovative techniques available for breast reduction. The choice depends on the degree of hypertrophy, the amount of tissue to be removed, and the position of the nipple, as well as the need to minimize scarring.
- Mild Breast Hypertrophy (resection of less than 350 g)
For mild cases, a periareolar or vertical incision is often used, and sometimes an inverted-T incision if necessary. This technique aims to remove excess tissue and reposition the areola to maintain breast harmony and proportion. - Moderate Breast Hypertrophy (resection of approximately 350 g to 1000 g)
In these cases, an inverted-T or anchor incision is most commonly used, combined with the removal of excess skin and breast tissue. The goal is to reduce the size of the breast and reposition the areola to a higher position.
- Exceptionally Large Breasts (“Gigantomastia”) (resection of more than 1000 g)
Here, the reduction involves removing a significant amount of tissue and skin. Usually, an inverted-T incision is used, allowing for extensive reshaping and achieving a proportional result.
To learn more about our Breast Reduction (mammoplasty), see our Instagram posts.
Postoperative care after a Breast Reduction
In our clinics, we devote all our resources to support patients during their postoperative period:
- Local Anesthesia or Sedation: In most cases, it is administered briefly, minimizing postoperative discomfort.
- Sutures: They may be absorbable or removed according to the surgeon’s instructions.
- Special Bra: After the procedure, we recommend wearing it for 4 to 6 weeks to provide adequate support and ensure proper healing.
Precautions: During this period, it is advised not to lift objects heavier than 5 kg and to avoid activities involving heavy lifting.
To learn more about our Breast Reduction (mammoplasty), see our Facebook posts.
Alternative treatments to complement breast reduction
One option is to combine a breast lift (mastopexy) with reduction techniques, especially if the patient desires a moderate reduction along with nipple repositioning.
In cases where only a minimal reduction is needed without lifting the nipple, liposuction can be performed to remove excess fat in the breast.
To learn more about our Breast Reduction (mammoplasty), see our Instagram posts.
Breast Reduction: Frequently Asked Questions
How does breast reduction improve health and comfort?
Beyond aesthetics, breast reduction often relieves back and neck pain, prevents bra strap grooves and makes physical activity more comfortable. In Dr. Fakin’s experience, many patients report a significant improvement in quality of life.
What scars result from breast reduction, and what technique do we use?
Depending on the case we use a vertical or an inverted-T pattern. Our priority is to preserve sensitivity and blood supply to the nipple–areola complex, while aiming for scars that fade over time.
Will I lose sensitivity or the ability to breastfeed after reduction surgery?
Temporary changes in sensitivity are common but usually recover. Breastfeeding is often possible, although it cannot be fully guaranteed, which is why we discuss your maternity plans before surgery.
How do we decide on the final breast size to keep it proportional?
At our clinic we aim for a breast size that is in harmony with your chest, shoulders and waist, maintaining a natural shape. During the consultation we explain how much tissue is likely to be removed and the expected outcome.
What should I expect during recovery after breast reduction?
Most patients return to everyday life within 7–10 days. Sports can be resumed gradually after 4–6 weeks, avoiding high-impact activity early on. We recommend a supportive bra and a tailored scar-care plan.
