Breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin to create smaller, lighter breasts in proportion to the body. It helps women whose large or uneven breasts cause neck, shoulder or back pain, rashes, or emotional distress. It is done under general anaesthesia, usually with a stay of 1-2 days.
- AnaesthesiaGeneral anaesthesia
- DurationTypically 2-4 hours
- Hospital stayDay care to 1-2 days
- Back to routineUsually 3-4 weeks for full recovery
What is breast reduction?
Large breasts often run in families, but can also result from obesity, steroid use or hormonal changes. Heavy breasts can cause pain in the neck, shoulders, back and breasts, skin rashes under the breast fold, bra-strap grooves, and difficulty with exercise and clothing, as well as low self-image.
Reduction mammoplasty removes excess fat, skin and glandular tissue and lifts the nipple to a better position, giving breasts that are smaller, lighter and firmer. The same techniques can correct asymmetry between the two breasts, and can address nipple deformities.
Before surgery, a medical history is taken, blood-thinning medicines are temporarily stopped, and a mammogram may be advised to rule out breast disease. Results are long-lasting, but ageing, weight change and pregnancy can alter breast size and shape, so women planning more children should discuss timing with the surgeon.
Who is breast reduction for?
- Women with large breasts, including those with a family history of large breasts
- Women with neck, shoulder, back or breast pain from heavy breasts
- Women with breast asymmetry or obesity-related breast enlargement
- Women with rashes under the breasts or nipple deformities
- Not suitable during pregnancy, while breastfeeding or soon after stopping; higher risk with clotting disorders
How is it done?
- Performed under general anaesthesia, as day care or with a short hospital stay
- The new nipple position is marked and incisions are planned to limit scarring
- Excess glandular tissue, fat and skin are removed and the breast is reshaped
- The nipple and areola are repositioned higher
- Deeper layers are stitched, the skin is closed and a dressing applied; drains may be used
What is recovery like?
- Walking is usually possible on the same day
- Discharge is typically within 1-2 days; showering is usually allowed 48 hours after drain removal
- Full recovery typically takes 3-4 weeks; light exercise can usually start at around 3 weeks
- Heavy lifting, stretching and strenuous exercise are usually avoided for 6 weeks
- A supportive bra is typically worn for about 3 months, and scars protected from the sun for a year
What are the risks?
- Bleeding, haematoma or infection
- Scarring around the areola and on the breast, which fades with time
- Changes in nipple sensation
- Possible effect on future breastfeeding
- Minor asymmetry or wound-healing problems at the junction of incisions
Why choose Dr. Jithendran?
- Dual training in orthopaedics (MS) and plastic surgery (MCh, DNB), with hand and microsurgery experience from Ganga Hospital, Coimbatore
- Consults at five hospitals across Bengaluru, with 24×7 availability for emergencies
- Clear explanations in English, Tamil, Hindi and Telugu, and time to answer every question
- Strict sterilisation and patient-privacy standards
Frequently asked questions
Will breast reduction relieve my back and neck pain?
Many women with very heavy breasts report less neck, shoulder and back pain after reduction, because the weight on the chest is reduced. Relief depends on the cause of your pain, so other spinal or posture problems should also be assessed. Your surgeon will discuss what improvement is realistic for you.
How soon can I go back to work after breast reduction?
Most women walk on the day of surgery and go home within 1-2 days. Desk work is often possible after one to two weeks, and full recovery typically takes 3-4 weeks. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise are usually avoided for about six weeks.
Can I breastfeed after breast reduction?
Some women can breastfeed after reduction, but the surgery may affect milk ducts and supply. It is not done during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or soon after stopping. If you plan more children, discuss the timing with your surgeon, because pregnancy can also change the result.
Will the results last?
Breasts usually stay smaller and lighter long term, but ageing, weight gain and pregnancy can change their size and shape. Keeping a stable weight, wearing a supportive bra for about three months after surgery and doing chest-strengthening exercises help maintain the result.
Is a mammogram needed before breast reduction?
A mammogram or breast imaging may be advised before surgery, especially for older women, to rule out any underlying breast disease. Your surgeon will also review your medical history and ask you to stop blood-thinning medicines and smoking at least two weeks before the operation.
