Reduction mammoplasty surgery, also known as breast reduction surgery, is a medical procedure performed to reduce the size and volume of the breasts. It involves the surgical removal of excess breast tissue and skin.
The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia and begins with an incision made on the breast. The technique and incision pattern may vary depending on the patient’s individual circumstances. Common incision patterns may include the anchor-shaped or inverted T-shaped incision, the vertical or lollipop incision, and the periareolar or doughnut incision.
Once the incisions are made, the surgeon removes excess breast tissue and skin. In some cases, the surgeon may also reposition the nipple and areola to a higher position. After the necessary tissue removal and reshaping, the surgeon closes the incisions using sutures or surgical staples.
The Reduction Mammoplasty (Breast Reduction) procedure is not exclusive to women. Men who have excess breast tissue can undergo a male breast reduction to correct gynecomastia. Gynecomastia is when a hormonal imbalance causes the enlargement of the male breast gland.
Choosing to have Reduction Mammoplasty (Breast Reduction) surgery may assist in alleviating back, neck and shoulder pain.
The purpose of Reduction Mammoplasty (Breast Reduction) surgery is to reduce the size of the breasts. Some patients may opt to combine the reduction surgery with a mastopexy (Breast lift).