What is a breast reduction?
Large breasts are an ideal of female beauty for many. However, oversized, sagging breasts can become a painful burden. Problems often occur in the chest, neck and back in particular. Headaches, poor posture and tension are the result. Psychological problems can also arise. If you suffer from your large breasts and feel inhibited during physical and sexual activities, you may want to consider a breast reduction. In principle, the operation can be performed at any age. However, it is important that your body has finished growing and that your breasts are fully developed.
A smaller, lighter and firmer breast is achieved by removing excess skin and breast tissue. The plastic surgeon then uses the remaining tissue to shape a new breast. For optimal results, it may also be necessary to remove excess fatty tissue. A breast lift and reduction of the areolas is often performed at the same time. The nipples are usually moved upwards together with the nerves and blood vessels. This means that the sensitivity of the nipple and the ability to breastfeed are more often preserved than if the nipple has to be moved without blood supply (“free transplantation”).
Before you decide to have a breast reduction, you should consult your plastic surgeon in detail. Together you should clarify what results can be expected given your physical condition. The sole aim of the procedure is to make you feel happier afterwards. Breast reduction surgery permanently changes the size and shape of your breasts. Nevertheless, the natural ageing process, weight changes and gravity will affect the shape of your breasts over the years.
What is a good age to get breast reduction?
The minimum age for breast surgery is 18 years, as breast growth is generally complete at this age. Underage patients are only treated in very rare exceptional cases and with the consent of their parents or legal guardians.
Absolutely, it’s important to ask yourself some key questions before undergoing any surgical procedure, including a breast reduction. Here are a few to consider:
Why do I want a breast reduction? Understanding your motivations can help ensure that you’re making this decision for the right reasons, such as alleviating physical discomfort or improving your quality of life.
What are my expectations for the outcome? It’s crucial to have realistic expectations about what the surgery can achieve. While it can improve symmetry and reduce discomfort, it’s important to know that there will be scars and that results may vary.
Ask yourself these questions
Am I aware of the risks and potential complications? Like any surgery, a breast reduction carries certain risks, such as infection, bleeding, changes in nipple sensation, and scarring. Being informed about these risks can help you make an informed decision.
How will this surgery impact my life? Consider how the recovery process will fit into your daily life and responsibilities, such as work, childcare, and physical activities.
Am I prepared for the emotional aspects of the surgery? Surgery can bring up a range of emotions, from excitement to anxiety. Make sure you have a support system in place and are mentally prepared for the experience.
Have I chosen a qualified surgeon? Researching your surgeon’s qualifications, experience, and track record can give you confidence in their ability to perform the procedure safely and effectively.
What are the financial implications? Make sure you understand the cost of the surgery, including any potential follow-up procedures or additional expenses.
The consultation with the specialist
A prerequisite for a successful operation is a detailed discussion about the details of the operation and possible complications. Take the opportunity to clarify all important questions. Write down what you want to know. If necessary, take a companion with you. If you still have questions after the consultation, make another appointment or call your doctor. There should be sufficient time between the preliminary consultation and the operation.
Before the operation, the plastic surgeon will discuss a declaration of consent with you. This contains your personal details, an explanation of the type of treatment and the possible complications discussed. By signing the form, you agree to the procedure and confirm that you have been informed about the risks.
Tips for choosing a doctor
You should take enough time to choose the right doctor. Be clear about what bothers you about your appearance and what you expect from the operation.
The choice of an appropriately trained specialist is a prerequisite for a satisfactory surgical result. We strongly advise you to choose a specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery who has many years of further training. Together with you, they will select the appropriate surgical method in advance and clarify the possibilities, limitations and alternatives of the planned procedure.
The plastic surgeon is a recognized specialist who has completed six years of further training after graduating from medical school. During this time, they must perform numerous operations under supervision. After this practical experience and theoretical training, the doctor must pass the specialist examination at the respective state medical association. Only then is he officially awarded the title “Specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery” (currently the expiring title “Specialist in Plastic Surgery” is also used, whose further training was comparable) and thus for you, the patient, clear proof of a comprehensive qualification.
Ask your surgeon
• What credentials and experience do they have?
• How many breast reduction procedures have they completed?
• How many of those procedures involved complications?
• How much follow-up is reasonable in case something goes wrong?
• What are the rates of patient satisfaction?
Before breast reduction operation
Although the nipples are moved during the operation along with nerves and blood vessels, a breast reduction can affect the ability to breastfeed. To rule out breast cancer, in some cases it may be advisable to have an X-ray examination (e.g. mammography) or an ultrasound scan before the operation. Your plastic surgeon will discuss this with you during the preliminary consultation.
You should not take any painkillers containing acetylsalicylic acid (e.g. aspirin) for 14 days before the operation. The blood-thinning effect delays blood clotting and can cause secondary bleeding. You should also avoid hormone-containing medication such as oestrogen preparations or the contraceptive pill. Reduce the consumption of nicotine and alcohol to a minimum before the procedure.
If you regularly take medication or suffer from allergies (e.g. to medication, disinfectants or plasters), be sure to inform the doctor. It is also essential that you inform the doctor of any known illnesses. If you are prone to bruising or persistent bleeding after minor injuries, the plastic surgeon should definitely rule out a coagulation disorder before the operation. If you have the procedure performed on an outpatient basis, we also recommend that a relative looks after you for at least the first night after the procedure.
The procedure is usually performed as an inpatient under general anesthesia. It is best to discuss with your plastic surgeon which preliminary examinations are necessary and when they will be carried out. You will also have the opportunity to discuss the anesthesia with the anesthesiologist.
Breast reduction operation
The surgical method can vary greatly depending on the size and condition of the breasts. In particular, the ideal incision depends largely on your physical condition and individual preferences. Before the actual procedure, the plastic surgeon first draws the planned incisions and the future position of the nipple on your skin.
There are several techniques for breast reduction. In all of them, the nipple and areola are moved upwards and reduced in size if necessary. This creates a scar around the areola. In addition, a vertical incision from the areola to the underbust crease is usually necessary. An incision can also be made in the underbust crease. The different incisions are relevant for the subsequent scarring. Your plastic surgeon will discuss with you in advance which incision is most suitable for you. Excess fat and glandular tissue is then removed and the skin under the breast is sutured together.
During the operation, once the excess tissue has been removed, the remaining part of the breast is reshaped and moved upwards. There it is attached to the muscle with countersunk sutures and the skin is tightened. During the reshaping of your breast, the nipple, including nerves and blood vessels, is also repositioned.
The wound is closed with very fine stitches under the skin and supported with a tight-fitting bandage or a sports bra. Drainage tubes ensure the unhindered drainage of wound water. Depending on the extent, the procedure takes around two and a half to four hours.
After breast reduction operation
Immediately after the operation, the breast will be tense and painful for a few days. Painkillers are usually administered to relieve this. After a few days, the pressure bandage will be replaced by a sports or medical bra. This should fit perfectly, support your breast and not constrict or press on the wound. You will wear the bra around the clock for the first few weeks. The bra should shape the breast and support internal and externasl scar healing.
The drains are usually removed the day after the breast augmentation. Absorbable stitches dissolve by themselves, other stitches remain for up to three weeks to support fine scarring. Initially, the scars will still be red, but will fade within a few months and blend in with the surrounding skin. After the wound has healed, the scars can also be treated with nourishing creams. During the following six months, UV radiation of the scars should be avoided (e.g. sunbathing).
Your full ability to work will be restored after two to four weeks (depending on your profession). However, be aware that you will only be able to shower again after a few days. During the first few weeks, you should move your upper arms very carefully and avoid rapid stretching. It is also important that you do not sleep on your stomach, but rather on your back, so as not to disturb the internal wound healing. You and your sexual partner should be extremely careful with your breasts for the next two months. The sensitivity of your nipples to touch may initially be impaired after the procedure and it may take months before you feel normal again. This also applies to sports activities and household chores (e.g. ironing and window cleaning). In most cases, the final result of the operation can be assessed after about six months. The scars and any hardening of the tissue even improve over the following one to two years, so that they eventually become inconspicuous, although not invisible. You should mention the operation at a later breast cancer examination (mammography).
A breast reduction can be repeated. The natural ageing process, weight changes and gravity can worsen the results of the operation after several years. However, the experienced plastic surgeon must consider in each individual case whether a repeat operation would make sense. Before planning a corrective operation, it is essential to wait for the final result of the first procedure.
Recovery
Following breast reduction surgery, recovery usually consists of the following phases:
Days 1-2 of the immediate post-op period: Following surgery, you will probably need to spend some time in the recovery room. Bruising, edoema, and pain are typical at this phase. In addition to giving you advice on how to take care of your incisions and manage discomfort, your surgeon may prescribe painkillers.
First week: You should rest and stay away from physically demanding activities during this time. In order to help minimise edoema and support your breasts during their healing process, your surgeon might advise you to wear a surgical bra or compression garment. To encourage appropriate healing, it’s critical that you carefully adhere to your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions. Within two to four weeks, you might progressively begin to feel better and have less discomfort and swelling. Still, you should refrain from doing any hard lifting.
4-6 weeks: At this point, a lot of patients are able to resume mild activities and might not require prescription painkillers. But it’s imperative that you keep according to your surgeon’s orders on exercise and wound care.
Long-term recovery: It may require several months to fully recuperate following breast reduction surgery. As the swelling goes down, you might notice improvements in the way your breasts feel and look. Your scars will also continue to disappear over time. Attending follow-up meetings with your surgeon is crucial, as is communicating any concerns or queries you may have while recovering.
When are the results of breast reduction visible?
Immediately after the procedure, the breasts are still swollen. For most patients, the final result of the breast reduction can only be assessed after about six months. In most cases, the results of a breast reduction are permanent and can last for many decades. However, this also depends very much on the patient’s lifestyle, for example whether pregnancies or weight fluctuations occur. However, the breasts will not return to the size they were before the breast reduction.
Scars
• It’s likely that you will have scars surrounding your nipples.
• Additionally, you can have an anchor-shaped horizontal scar across the crease behind your breast and a vertical scar extending down your breast.
• Depending on the kind of surgery you’ve had, your breast may merely have a vertical scar that runs along it.
• For the first six weeks, scars may appear red or different from your natural skin tone, but most eventually disappear and should be undetectable beneath regular clothing, bras, and bikini tops.
If you intend to become a parent
If you intend to have breast reduction surgery prior to becoming pregnant, or before becoming pregnant again, keep in mind that this could impact the outcome of the procedure.
After the procedure, there’s also a chance you won’t be able to nurse your child.
Breast Reduction Cost in Turkey
Like many other plastic surgery in Turkey, breast reduction in Turkey is one of the operations preferred by domestic and international patients, especially in recent years. Breast reduction in Turkey is one of the most preferred operations due to many factors.
First, breast reduction cost in Turkey is often more affordable compared to many Western countries, including the United States and some European countries, as it is offered in affordable packages. For this reason, the majority of individuals from Western nations like Istanbul clinics that provide affordable alternatives for giving their breast a gorgeous, natural appearance. Especially in Istanbul, Turkey’s largest metropolis and cultural city, breast reduction is very popular economically with its affordable prices and quality breast reduction operations. This affordability does not compromise the quality of care; Turkey has developed a robust healthcare infrastructure with modern facilities and highly qualified medical professionals, including plastic surgeons specializing in breast surgery. Plastic surgeons specialized and experienced in breast reduction in Turkey perform highly successful breast reduction in Istanbul’s well-equipped and fully equipped hospitals and clinics. As can be seen from the positive feedback of patients who have undergone breast reduction in Istanbul, breast reduction in Turkey and Istanbul are increasing their popularity and success day by day.
By charging what it does, patients are guaranteed top-notch care without sacrificing quality. One of the other crucial aspects is that getting a breast reduction in Istanbul will enable you to visit one of Turkey’s biggest and most historically significant cities for tourism. People who select Istanbul for breast reduction benefit from not only the reasonable cost of the procedure in Turkey but also the chance to spend a few days touring the city, taking in the historical landmarks, and indulging in delectable Turkish cuisine.
Furthermore, Istanbul, the cultural and economic centre of Turkey, provides a special fusion of medical know-how and tourist attraction. World-class medical facilities are available to patients seeking breast reductions, and they can also take advantage of Istanbul’s and Turkey’s rich historical and cultural heritage as well as their stunning natural surroundings. Istanbul appeals to those thinking about breast reduction surgery because of its excellent medical facilities and fun tourist attractions.
Turkey has also developed a reputation for being a destination for medical tourists, bringing in people from all over the world for a range of medical treatments, including cosmetic procedures like breast reduction. The surge in patient volume has prompted the establishment of specialty clinics and medical centres that serve patients from other countries. These facilities offer individualised care, help with language, and smooth logistical support during the course of treatment.
Furthermore, Istanbul is easily accessible for patients from all over the world due to its advantageous location between Europe and Asia, well-connected international airports, and a variety of lodging alternatives to meet a range of tastes and price points. The ease and comfort of patients travelling to Istanbul for breast reduction surgery is enhanced by this accessibility.
Finally, because of its cost-effectiveness, state-of-the-art medical facilities, skilled surgeons, tourism appeal, and logistical convenience, Turkey –and especially Istanbul– is an appealing option for breast reduction surgery. These factors make Turkey a desirable travel destination for anyone looking for top-notch medical care and an unforgettable experience.