Dr. med.
S. Fenner
.
Dr. med.
S. Fenner
Specialist
in Plastic
and Aesthetic
Surgery
.
.

Breast
reduction

(Mammoplasty)

.
.
Women with excessively large breasts often experience chronic tension in the shoulders and neck, headaches, tight bra straps, posture issues, inflammation in the inframammary fold, difficulty in choosing clothing, and limited physical activity. These issues, in addition to aesthetic and psychological concerns, can be alleviated through breast reduction surgery, which can free them from this burden and provide a renewed sense of well-being and body awareness.

Breast reduction surgery mainly involves the following aspects:

  • Reducing the glandular and fatty tissue to the desired size
  • Tightening of the breast tissue and skin
  • Positioning the nipple-areola complex while preserving blood vessels and nerves, and, if necessary, correcting the size and shape of the areola
  • The goal is an attractively shaped and tightened, symmetrical breast that harmonizes with the overall body appearance.
    It is crucial to choose the optimal surgical method based on the breast findings, the woman's constitution, and her personal preferences. The different surgical techniques vary in the blood supply to the nipple-areola complex, the aesthetic outcome, the durability of results, the length of scars, the nipple's sensitivity, the ability to breastfeed, and the safety of blood circulation to the nipple.
    The choice of the optimal surgical method (e.g., Hall-Findlay, Lejour, Ribeiro, L-scar, internal bra, etc.) requires the surgeon's mastery of all techniques, careful breast examination, and effective communication during the consultation before breast reduction.
    Breast reduction surgery results in scars on the operated breast. The length and shape of these scars depend on the chosen surgical method, breast size, and shape. With precise suturing techniques, the scars are generally delicate and inconspicuous.
    .
    Scar pattern around the areola and vertically
    .
    Scar pattern around the areola, vertically, and in the inframammary fold
    During the consultation, the breast will be carefully examined; expectations, success probabilities, possible surgical risks, necessary preparatory tests, and aftercare will be discussed.
    .

    Follow-up cost insurance

    When performed by an experienced and specialized plastic surgeon, aesthetic surgeries are relatively low-risk procedures. However, despite the greatest care, there is always a possibility of complications with any surgery. Therefore, a serious and comprehensive consultation should also include information about the potential economic consequences of such surgery, as well as the option of follow-up cost insurance.

    Frequently Asked Questions Breast Reduction
    Breast Reduction

    FAQ on the topic
    Brustverkleinerung

    What preliminary tests are required before breast reduction surgery?
    Ultrasound and/or mammography are advisable before surgery, depending on age, medical history, and family history of breast conditions. Additional tests may be needed based on specific health factors.
    How long does the breast reduction surgery take, and how long is the hospital stay?
    The surgery typically lasts between two to three hours, depending on the method and extent of reduction. The hospital stay is usually 1-3 days.
    What breast size do you recommend?
    A significant weight reduction of the breasts should be performed to effectively alleviate the aforementioned complaints. The breast size should fit the woman's constitution and body size and account for potential future changes, such as aging. The size should not be planned too small, to ensure the preservation of sufficient nerves in the glandular tissue for nipple sensitivity.
    What is the "internal bra" technique?
    In this method, the stronger dermal layer of the excess breast skin is preserved and used as an internal bra, which is stretched over the reduced glandular tissue and fixed to the chest wall. This helps stabilize the tightening result.
    Is the tissue removed during the breast reduction examined microscopically?
    The tissue removed is always weighed and sent for pathological examination.
    What aftercare is required following surgery?
    A compression bra should be worn continuously for 6 weeks (except while showering). Drainage tubes are removed before the patient is discharged from the hospital. The sutures are self-dissolving, so no suture removal is needed. Follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor wound healing and scar maturation. As breast shape changes immediately after surgery, the final result is expected about three months after the operation. Scar maturation typically takes 9 to 12 months.
    What risks are associated with breast reduction surgery?
    A detailed risk assessment and explanation will be provided before surgery, covering risks such as bleeding, infection, wound healing complications, scarring, and thrombosis.
    How long will I be unable to work or exercise?
    Depending on physical activity, you should expect between a few days to two weeks of work incapacity. Over-exertion, especially of the arms, should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks.
    Can I breastfeed after a breast reduction?
    This depends on the technique used and should be discussed individually with younger women during the consultation.
    What is the cost of the surgery?
    The cost of the procedure starts at €8,000. In rare cases, health insurance may cover the costs for more severe cases. We can assist with applying for insurance coverage if necessary.