When the hypertrophy of breast tissue occurs due to hereditary, developmental, or hormonal factors and reaches a size that bothers the individual, breast reduction surgery is recommended. Large and sagging breasts can cause serious health problems such as back, neck, and shoulder pain, shortness of breath, and disruption of body posture. Breast reduction surgery adjusts the breast tissue to aesthetic proportions, allowing the patient to lead a much more comfortable life in their daily activities.

Breast reduction, also commonly known as breast reduction surgery, is the procedure where excess skin, gland, and fat tissue are removed from the breast while reshaping it to a more harmonious form with the body. Large breasts can adversely affect both physical and psychological well-being, diminishing the patient's quality of life. Breast reduction surgery can be performed to alleviate physical complaints (such as back, neck, and shoulder pain, bra strap marks on the shoulders, and skin problems), or it can be done at the request of women who are unhappy with their breast size even if they do not have physical complaints.

Breast reduction surgery is a highly personalized procedure. There are many techniques and modifications described for breast reduction. The technique to be applied can vary based on your age, body measurements, breast shape, composition of the breast, how much reduction is desired, skin quality, daily life activities, and habits.

Reduction surgery replaces large and/or sagging breasts with smaller, better-positioned breasts, albeit with scars. Regardless of the different incision techniques, all scars are planned to remain within underwear/swimwear/bikini boundaries.

If the relocation and lifting of the nipple are planned, there is a round, indistinct scar between the part of the breast called the areola, which differs in tone from normal skin and contains the nipple in the middle, and the normal skin. In some patients, the areola, which may be very wide in this area, can also be reduced if necessary.

In addition to this scar, a second scar (Vertical Scar) extending vertically from the areola to the sub-mammary fold will be present to tighten the breast skin. While these scars may be sufficient in some patients, a horizontal scar may be added to this scar at the sub-mammary fold (Inverted-T Scar) to improve the desired result. The Inverted-T incision can be long or short depending on the breast shape and technique.

After the surgery, there will be bandages and dressings immediately. Drains may be used in some cases to collect excess blood and serum from the surgical area, and they will typically be removed within 1-3 days based on the amount collected. Special surgical bras are used for an average of 4-6 weeks.

To prevent infection upon discharge, antibiotics and pain relievers will be prescribed for pain control. If drains are placed, the patient can shower after the drains are removed or 24-48 hours after surgery. Shoulder movements may be temporarily restricted for a short period.

Most stitches nowadays are self-absorbing, and there is no need for removal. Follow your doctor's instructions for postoperative follow-ups and suture removal. If you are engaged in active sports, keep in mind that returning to normal activities may take between 3 to 6 weeks.

Breast reduction surgery is largely experienced as a comfortable procedure, and patient satisfaction is high. Nevertheless, during the consultation, you should gather information about potential risks, carefully weigh the gains and possible risks related to the surgery, and make a decision about the operation.

Breast reduction surgery should be performed by a Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery specialist who is competent and experienced. Despite all the attention and care, there are some risks that patients should be aware of. Although many of these risks may occur, their occurrence does not prevent the achievement of the ultimate result; however, being managed by an experienced doctor will minimize potential issues. The main risks are as follows:

Early stages (first 2-3 weeks):

- Anesthesia risks

- Formation of blood clots in deep veins (deep vein thrombosis), detachment of clots reaching the lungs (embolism)

- Allergies and itching due to medications and bandages

- Bleeding (hematoma) and fluid accumulation (seroma)

- Infection

- Pain

- Loss of sensation in the breast and nipple, excessive sensitivity

- Healing disorders and delayed healing at incision lines

- Circulation problems in the nipple

Late stages:

- Distortions in breast shape, striking asymmetry in breasts

- Fat necrosis

- Persistent loss of sensation and excessive sensitivity in the breast and nipple

- Risk of inability to breastfeed

- Poor scars

Another important consideration for patients is that breasts may undergo deformation due to individual characteristics, aging, and rapid weight gain or loss. Surgical intervention cannot guarantee the exact desired result or ensure that the result will be very long-lasting.

Discussing all your questions freely with your surgeon before the surgery and actively participating in the decision-making process will bring your expectations and surgical goals closer to each other, ultimately increasing your satisfaction throughout the entire process.