Overview
Breast hypertrophy refers to breast size that is considered excessive relative to the patient’s body type. It can cause functional and aesthetic discomfort, which can impact quality of life.
Breast reduction is a plastic surgery procedure that reduces breast size, lifts the breasts, and improves their shape. It typically involves removing excess glandular and fatty tissue and tightening the skin.
In Paris, Dr. Alexandre Vairinho performs this procedure following a personalized evaluation that takes into account your body type, symptoms, and expectations. In some cases, breast reduction surgery may be partially covered by Medicare if the medical criteria are met.
Explanation of the technique
Breast reduction is a breast surgery procedure designed to reduce the size of the breasts when they are considered disproportionately large for the patient’s body type or when they cause functional symptoms.
Excessively large breasts can indeed cause back, neck, or shoulder pain, discomfort during physical activity, and skin irritation in the inframammary fold. The procedure helps improve both physical comfort and the overall harmony of the figure.
Breast reduction involves removing some of the breast tissue (glandular tissue and/or fat), reshaping the breast, and repositioning the areola at a more appropriate height. The goal is to achieve a lighter, better-proportioned bust that is more in harmony with the rest of the body.
Principles of Breast Reduction
Breast reduction involves several technical steps designed to restore a more natural breast shape that better suits the patient's body type.
The initiative is specifically designed to:
- reduce the weight and size of the breasts
- reshape the breast to achieve a more harmonious shape
- correct breast ptosis, which is often associated with breast hypertrophy
- reposition the areola-nipple complex at a more natural height
- reshape the contours of the breast
- improve the overall balance of the figure
The amount of tissue to be removed is determined during the preoperative consultation. It depends on several factors:
- your body type
- the initial breast volume
- skin health
- the presence of functional symptoms (pain, discomfort, irritation)
- the desired result
The goal is to achieve a more proportionate, comfortable, and natural-looking bust, while respecting the anatomy and breast tissue.
The Scars
Like any breast surgery, breast reduction results in scars. Their shape depends mainly on:
- the amount of breast tissue to be removed
- the degree of breast ptosis
- the amount of skin to be removed
Several scarring patterns can be used.
Vertical scar
This technique combines:
- a scar around the areola
- a vertical scar extending down to the inframammary fold
It is used when the reduction is moderate and allows for effective breast reshaping while minimizing scarring.
Inverted T-shaped scar (or anchor-shaped scar)
This technique combines:
- a scar around the areola
- a vertical scar
- a horizontal scar in the inframammary fold
It is used in cases of more extensive breast reduction or significant sagging. It allows for a more complete reshaping of the breast and better skin tightening.
The choice of technique is determined during the consultation based on your anatomy, breast size, and the desired outcome.
Scars gradually fade over time, even though they are permanent.
Overview of the procedure
The process of undergoing breast reduction surgery begins with a specialized consultation to assess the extent of breast hypertrophy and its functional impact.
During this consultation, a comprehensive clinical examination is performed to assess breast volume, skin quality, and the position of the areolas. Associated symptoms—such as back or neck pain, discomfort during physical activity, or difficulty finding clothing that fits—are also taken into account. This step helps determine a target breast volume and discuss realistic goals for the procedure.
You will receive detailed medical information and a personalized quote, in accordance with the legal cooling-off period. Once the medical criteria are met, an application for coverage can be submitted.
Before the procedure, a preoperative evaluation is ordered, and a consultation with the anesthesiologist is scheduled. A mammogram or breast imaging exam is also requested to complete the evaluation.
Breast reduction surgery is performed in a clinic under general anesthesia. The procedure typically lasts between 2 and 3 hours, depending on the amount of tissue to be removed and the technique used.
The procedure involves removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to reduce breast size while reshaping the breasts. The areola is repositioned to restore a shape that is more harmonious and proportionate to the body.
Hospitalization typically lasts 24 to 48 hours, depending on the immediate post-operative course and the extent of the reduction performed.
BEFORE / AFTER
Postoperative Care and Expected Results
After the procedure, a period of gradual recovery is necessary. In the first few days, it is common to experience:
- breast swelling
- bruises
- a feeling of tightness or tightness
- temporary fatiguetemporary fatigue
- varying skin sensitivity
A support bra is prescribed for several weeks to support the breasts and aid in healing.
Activities are gradually resuming :
- light activities: after a few days
- sedentary work: generally after 10 to 15 days
- Sports activities: usually after 4 to 6 weeks
Regular post-operative follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and changes in breast shape.
Breast reduction surgery results in lighter, better-positioned breasts that are more proportionate to the body. The benefits are often numerous:
- reduction in back or neck pain
- improved everyday comfort
- convenience for clothing and sports
- a more balanced figure
- improvement in quality of life
The results become more apparent over the months following the procedure, as swelling subsides and the tissues soften.
Scars fade over time but remain permanent. As with any breast surgery, the results may change due to natural aging, weight fluctuations, or future pregnancies.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Reduction
Partial coverage may be available if the breast enlargement meets certain medical criteria, particularly depending on the amount of tissue removed. An individualized assessment is required.
In many cases, breastfeeding is still possible, but this depends on the technique used and the individual situation. This will be discussed during your consultation.
Scarring is an inevitable part of breast reduction surgery. The extent of the scarring depends on the amount of tissue removed and the amount of excess skin. The scars gradually fade over time.
The results are long-lasting, but the breasts remain susceptible to natural aging, weight fluctuations, and pregnancy. Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve the results.
Surgery may be considered once breast development has stabilized and the discomfort is significant. The decision is made on a case-by-case basis.
>> This page is intended to provide general information. Only a consultation with Dr. Vairinho will allow for an accurate assessment of your situation and the recommendation of an appropriate treatment plan. A personalized quote is provided only during a consultation.
