Breast Reduction

Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the size of large breasts and improve the patient’s quality of life. During this procedure, excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are removed. In some cases, the nipple and surrounding skin are also reshaped.

Benefits of Breast Reduction

Breast reduction surgery offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it alleviates back and shoulder pain caused by large breasts. It also reduces problems such as skin irritation and redness. Breast reduction surgery allows for more comfortable movement during physical activities and generally enhances the quality of life. Additionally, it can improve the aesthetic appearance, thereby boosting self-confidence.

Potential Candidates

Breast reduction surgery is suitable for individuals experiencing physical discomfort due to large breasts. Those who suffer from back, shoulder, and neck pain, persistent skin irritation, and difficulty with physical activities due to large breasts are potential candidates for this surgery.

Surgery Process

First Appointment

During the initial consultation, the surgeon evaluates the patient’s medical history to determine if they are a suitable candidate for breast reduction surgery. Information such as smoking habits, medications, and previous surgeries is particularly important. Additionally, a mammogram may be conducted to assess the condition of the breast tissue before the surgery.

Preparation for Surgery

In the preparation phase for surgery, patients need to follow specific instructions. The surgeon may recommend stopping smoking, discontinuing certain medications, and improving overall health prior to the surgery. Additionally, obtaining a surgical bra to aid in the post-operative recovery process is essential.

Surgical Techniques

Various surgical techniques are used in breast reduction surgery, which may vary based on the patient’s needs and the surgeon’s preference. Typically, incisions are made to remove excess breast tissue and fat. In some cases, liposuction may also be used.

During Surgery

In a breast reduction operation, the breast tissue, fat tissue, and skin are treated simultaneously. The brown tissue on the breast is removed and placed at the appropriate point on the lifted breast. Most breast reduction operations also include a breast lift procedure.

Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically lasts about 3-4 hours. After the surgery, the patient is kept under observation in the hospital for one day. Organic, dissolvable sutures are used for the stitches in breast operations. The stitches begin to heal within 7-14 days after the operation.

A special bra that needs to be worn for one month after the breast reduction surgery is recommended. In some operations, different techniques may be applied to each breast to ensure symmetry. Following the operation, the patient achieves both an aesthetic appearance and improved health.

Recovery and Care

Immediate Postoperative Care

Right after breast reduction surgery, patients are observed in the hospital for a while. Bandages and ice packs are applied to the surgical area to reduce swelling and discomfort. Drainage tubes may be placed to remove excess fluid from the surgical site.

Recovery Period

There are several important points that patients need to pay attention to during the recovery period. Firstly, physical activities should be limited, and heavy lifting should be avoided. Patients should prioritize rest for the first few weeks and maintain mobility with light exercises recommended by their doctors. Additionally, wearing a special surgical bra or supportive bras is advised. Proper adjustment of bra straps is important to avoid putting excessive pressure on the surgical area.

Potential Complications

During the postoperative period, certain complications may arise, and managing these conditions is crucial. Signs of infection include redness, increased warmth, and fever. If these symptoms occur, it is important to consult a doctor immediately.

Bleeding and scarring are also conditions to be monitored. To make scars less noticeable, creams and care methods recommended by the doctor can be used. Although rare, seroma, which is the accumulation of fluid in the surgical area, is a condition that requires attention and may need medical intervention.

During breast reduction surgery, the nipple usually remains in place, but in some cases, its position may need to be changed.

Additionally, some patients may experience a loss of sensation in the nipple or face issues such as the breasts growing back after breast reduction surgery. Therefore, it is important for candidates to consider these risks when making their decision.

Special Cases

Breast Reduction Surgery in Men

Breast reduction surgery in men is typically used to treat a condition known as gynecomastia. Gynecomastia is the abnormal enlargement of breast tissue in men. This condition can arise due to hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, or weight gain. Gynecomastia surgery involves the removal of excess breast tissue and fat.

Breast Reduction in Adolescents

Surgeries performed while breast development is ongoing may result in the breasts growing again. Therefore, when planning breast reduction surgery at a young age, future breast development and potential changes should be considered.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Pregnancy and breastfeeding periods can cause changes in breast size. Therefore, it is important for women considering breast reduction surgery to take these periods into account. During pregnancy, breasts can enlarge, and the results achieved after surgery may change. During breastfeeding, milk production can be affected because some of the breast tissue is removed.

Preserving the connection between milk ducts and the nipple can prevent issues during breastfeeding. However, in cases of excessively large breasts, it may not be possible to adequately reduce the size while preserving the connection. Therefore, if the patient plans to have children after the surgery, they should inform their doctor.

For these reasons, factors related to pregnancy and breastfeeding should be considered when planning breast reduction surgery.

Cost of Breast Reduction Surgery in Turkey

In Turkey, the starting cost of breast reduction surgery is approximately $2800. This price typically includes hospital fees, hotel accommodation, transportation, medical services from pre-operative preparations to post-operative treatments, as well as consultations.