Reduction mammoplasty: what is it?
Recovery Fast
At our clinic we have been using this surgical method for over 10 years, with experience and results proven by the low percentage of complications.
Our aim is for recovery to be as comfortable and quick as possible, but always prioritising safety and low complications.
More important than recovering quickly is that everything goes smoothly, without any avoidable complications.
What is Breast reduction?
Reduction mammoplasty, also known as breast reduction or reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that consists of reducing breast volume while improving the shape and appearance of the breast, correcting ptosis and adding volume to the upper pole, which is often empty.
What results can I expect afterwards
to have a breast reduction?
The results of breast reduction are immediate and the woman will feel lighter. However, the final result is expected after a few months. Women who undergo breast reduction report an improvement in their quality of life and self-esteem. They are able to wear clothes they couldn't wear before and do physical activities more comfortably.
At our clinic, we apply the Rapid Recovery, It is used in all breast reduction surgeries, allowing the patient to have a comfortable, short and mobile recovery hours after surgery.
Who it's for
reduction mammoplasty?
Breast reduction is recommended for women who have the following complaints due to their breast size:
- Back or neck pain;
- Posture problems;
- Moist skin on the underside of the breast due to friction;
- Deep shoulder marks on the bra strap due to excessive breast weight.
In addition to these physical issues, there are also psychological signs. All women who don't feel comfortable with their bodies, and who opt for dark, baggy clothes to disguise the size of their breasts, are candidates for breast reduction surgery.
Surgery Procedure
reduction mammoplasty
Medical Consultation
The medical assessment consultation for a reduction mammoplasty covers various aspects so that you leave the office with all the answers and clarifications you need.
1. Counselling
The first step in your consultation is to share with the medical team your expectations of the surgery and the result you want to achieve. On the day of the consultation, you should inform the medical team of any medication you take or any medical condition you suffer from.
2. Simulation with Vectra 3D
The simulation gives you an idea of the results that can be achieved with a breast reduction.
3. Detailed explanations
As well as clearing up all your doubts - the risks of surgery, pre- and post-operative care and the results you can expect - a personalised treatment plan is drawn up.
4. Presentation of the Rapid Recovery protocol
At our clinic, we apply the Rapid Recovery / 24h Recovery in all breast reduction surgeries, allowing the patient to have a comfortable, short and mobile recovery hours after surgery.
5. Budget
After the medical consultation, you will be given an exact quote according to the surgical plan you have drawn up. You can then book the date of your surgery.
6. Psychological assessment
For us, your well-being and mental health are a priority. Therefore, before the surgery we carry out a psychological assessment to ensure that you have the necessary conditions to undergo the procedure and that you are aware of the impact it could have on your life.
Type of Anaesthesia
Breast reduction surgery is performed under sedation and local anaesthesia. First, the patient is sedated intravenously by the anaesthetist and then, while she is asleep, local anaesthetics are injected so that she doesn't feel any pain during the surgery. The anaesthetist will be present throughout the operation to ensure the patient's comfort and safety. At the end of the operation, the patient is woken up by the anaesthetist and transferred to recovery.
Type of Scar
Depending on the woman's anatomical needs and aesthetic concerns, the surgeon will choose the most suitable type of scar.
Periareolar scar
The incision is made around the areola and is one of the regions where the scar is most concealed, due to the natural transition of colour in this area, as well as a vertical incision that extends from the lower edge of the areola down to the breast crease.
Vertical Scar
This type of scar achieves a higher degree of breast lift than the scar around the areola.
T-inverted scar
Anchor-shaped, involves an incision around the areola, a vertical line from the areola to the inframammary fold and a horizontal line along the fold.
3D simulation reduction mammoplasty
We were the first clinic in Portugal to make real-time simulation available to our patients.
Vectra XT 3D is a revolutionary piece of software that makes it possible to visualise the before and after of a breast reduction in real time, allowing patients to get an idea of the results they can achieve.
Reduction surgery
breast step by step
Undergoing a breast reduction is an important decision and, as such, women should be aware of the surgical procedure and their recovery.
We applied the Rapid Recovery in all breast reduction surgeries, allowing the patient to have a comfortable, short and mobile recovery hours after surgery.
The intervention follows these phases:
Step 1
After a conversation with the plastic surgeon, where the surgical plan is reviewed and appointments are made, the patient is taken to the operating theatre, which has already been properly disinfected and all the surgical instruments sterilised.
Step 2
The area to be treated is prepared sterilely.
Step 3
Local anaesthesia is administered intravenously and then local anaesthetics are injected so that there is no pain or discomfort during the surgery.
Step 4
After making the incisions, the mammary gland and excess fat are removed.
Step 5
Excess skin is removed and the breast and areola are remodelled.
Step 6
The incisions are closed in planes using absorbable thread. The patient is seated on the couch to check the result and symmetry.
Step 7
Surgical glue is applied to the scars, isolating them from the outside environment. The glue does not require dressings and gradually falls off after 15 days.
Step 8
Before being taken to the recovery room, a post-surgical bra is put on, which must be worn for 30 days.
Step 9
After a few hours in recovery under medical observation, the patient is discharged, given all the necessary documentation and given post-operative recommendations.
Preparation for Breast Reduction
At the medical assessment appointment, the patient receives detailed instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, including all the pre- and post-operative care.
Before Surgery
- Do not take aspirin or any anticoagulant medication two weeks before surgery to reduce the risk of haemorrhage;
- Do not smoke one month before and one month after surgery, as nicotine consumption compromises tissue oxygenation and negatively affects healing;
- If you catch a cold or suffer from a bad mood in the days before surgery, you should inform the medical team immediately;
- Read the documentation you were given before the surgery carefully, as you may have questions;
- If you're a mother, organise your routines in advance and make sure you have help at home;
- If you still have doubts about breast reduction, don't wait until the day of your surgery and ask all your questions;
On Surgery Day
- The day before and the day of the operation you should eat light meals. You should fast for 8 hours - do not eat or drink any liquid other than water;
- The day before and the day of surgery, you should shower with the prescribed disinfectant gel;
- No jewellery or watches;
- Do not wear make-up or nail varnish;
- Bring comfortable clothes to wear when you are discharged (preferably with buttons or a zip down the front);
- After discharge, she can't drive or walk home on her own. She must have someone pick her up from the clinic.
Recovery and Post-Operation
- Rest and refrain from physical exertion (you can return to work after one to two weeks if your profession does not involve physical exertion);
- Take the prescribed medication at the indicated time;
- Don't drive for a week;
- Wear the surgical bra for 30 days;
- No smoking;
- Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet;
- Attend all review appointments.
Benefits reduction mammoplasty
Most patients are able to resume their normal routine shortly after the surgical procedure and the benefits are felt immediately:
- Increased self-esteem: the realisation of the desire to have smaller breasts in proportion to the rest of the body provides an increase in self-esteem and confidence;
- Better health: with breast reduction, physical problems related to breast size improve: back pain, shoulder pain and changes in posture;
- Freedom in choosing clothes: worries about choosing clothes that hide breast size disappear. Women now have greater freedom in their choice of clothes and swimwear;
- Improved quality of life: when the breast is excessively large, it causes difficulties in carrying out everyday tasks, particularly physical activity. By reducing the size of the breast, women gain agility and comfort.
Rapid Recovery in Reduction Mammoplasty
O Rapid Recovery Protocol is the technique we have used in all breast surgeries, including reduction mammoplasty. It consists of a set of practices that optimise surgical safety and also recovery time.
The success of this technique requires careful planning of all stages: consultation, surgery and post-surgery.
At our clinic we use the Rapid Recovery for more than 10 years, with experience and results proven by the low percentage of complications.
Our aim is for recovery to be as comfortable and fast as possible, but always prioritising safety and low complications. More important than recovering quickly is that everything goes smoothly, without avoidable complications.
Each body is different, each case is different. Whilst it's true that the majority of women go through surgery extremely comfortably, it's still necessary to allow time for a smooth recovery, so as not to precipitate unnecessary complications. O full recovery time of a breast reduction always ends up going at least as far as 4 weeks.
At an early stage, there is a lot of oedema and you shouldn't exert yourself physically for the first 4 weeks to reduce the risk of haematomas and seromas. Wanting to rush recovery can be counterproductive and end up causing more complications in the short/medium term.
Medical Specialists
About
Dr Luísa Magalhães Ramos / Plastic Surgery
DOCTORS' ASSOCIATION: registration no. 42810, specialising in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
Graduated from the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, specialising in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, He specialised in University Hospital Centre Lisboa Central - St Joseph's Hospital.
Throughout his training, he sub-specialised in the area of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, He has worked in world-renowned centres. At the same time, he also worked on breast reconstruction and the reconstruction of facial malformations.
He is currently working mainly on Aesthetic Plastic Surgery of the Face (eyelids, nose and cervical-facial lift), Breast Surgery and Female Genital Surgery.
About
Dr Alice Varanda Pereira / Plastic Surgery
DOCTORS' ASSOCIATION: registration no. 47051, specialist in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and Subspecialist in Aesthetic and Cosmetic Medicine.
Licensed by Lisbon Medical School, It was at this institution that she took her Master's degree in Human Sexuality and is currently working on her PhD.
She has been a member of the faculty's teaching staff since 2008, as Assistant Professor at the Institute of Anatomy. It is in this unit that she produces most of her research projects, essentially in the area of surgical anatomy, and she is also the supervisor of master's theses.
About
Dr Mariana da Rocha Martins/ Plastic Surgery
DOCTORS' ASSOCIATION: registration no. 55124, specialising in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
He graduated from Abel Salazar Institute of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Porto and completed his speciality in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery at the University Hospital Centre Lisboa Central - St Joseph's Hospital.
During his specific training in Plastic Surgery, he worked at internationally renowned institutions such as the Kaplan Institute (Barcelona), in La Clinic (Montreux) and Great Ormond Street Hospital (London).
About
Dr Marta Gouveia Duarte/ Plastic Surgery
DOCTORS' ASSOCIATION: registration no. 57817, specialising in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
Graduated in Medicine from School of Health Sciences, University of Minho, where she completed her Master's thesis in Human Ageing.
He completed his speciality in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery at the Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central - Hospital de São José.
He collaborates in various research projects in NOVA Medical School.
About
Dr Sara Carvalho / Plastic Surgery
DOCTORS' ASSOCIATION: registration no. 60781, specialising in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
Licensed by Lisbon Medical School. He completed his speciality in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery at the Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Central - Hospital de São José.
She has taken various courses in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast and aesthetic surgery of the face.
She is currently a member of the clinical staff of the Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery service at the Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Central, where she excels in the areas of Breast Reconstruction, Body Contouring and Post-Bariatric Surgery, Paediatric Plastic Surgery, Trauma and Burn Surgery. She works as a hospital assistant, is a training supervisor and is responsible for Safe Surgery at the institution.
About
Dr Filipa Oliveira/ Plastic Surgery
DOCTORS' ASSOCIATION: registration no. 59147, specialising in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
Graduated in Medicine from Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, where she completed her master's thesis on paediatric scars.
She holds a doctorate in medicine from the University of Münster in Germany.
After completing her speciality, she became a Senior Graduate Assistant (Oberärztin) at the Fachklinik Hornheide and the University of Münster. She is currently collaborating on various research projects at the University of Münster, where she is supervising doctoral students. She is also a regular correspondent for scientific and leisure magazines in Germany.
Frequently Asked Questions about
Reduction mammoplasty
Is breast reduction a safe surgery?
No surgery is risk-free. As such, breast reduction can also have associated risks, but these risks are drastically reduced if you take into account various factors such as:
- Choose an accredited plastic surgery clinic;
- Choose a plastic surgeon experienced in breast reductions and registered with the Portuguese Medical Association;
- Carry out all necessary medical examinations;
- Strictly follow all pre- and post-operative recommendations as indicated by the medical team;
What is the price of a Breast Reduction at your clinic (Lisbon or Porto)?
The price of a breast reduction, whether carried out in Lisbon, Porto or another geographical area, depends on the initial state of the breast and the techniques used. Each case is different and so a medical assessment is carried out in order to make a diagnosis and outline a personalised treatment plan.
Can I choose the size I want for my breasts?
During the consultation, you can share with the plastic surgeon your expectations for the final result. You can see examples of results and the plastic surgeon will tell you whether or not your expectations are realistic.
From what age can a reduction mammoplasty be performed?
It is advisable to have this surgery from the age of 18, when the breast is usually fully developed. In some women, the breast can grow until the age of 20. It is also advisable to have a stable weight.
Can the breast grow back?
This is the great fear of women who suffer from the weight of their breasts and who undergo breast reduction. It's important to realise that the breast is made up of the mammary gland and adipose tissue. During the surgery, part of the gland, skin and fat are removed in order to achieve the desired size. The mammary gland doesn't grow back after its period of development - adolescence - but fat can accumulate again if you gain weight. Thus, breast enlargement can occur as a result of weight fluctuations, pregnancy and later breastfeeding, as well as the normal ageing process.
Does the surgery also include a breast lift?
Reduction mammoplasty involves reducing the volume of the breasts and, in cases of sagging, lifting them. The aim is to reduce, but also to harmonise the shape and ptosis.
Can I have a breast reduction before I get pregnant? Will I be able to breastfeed?
Yes, there is no medical impediment to not having the surgery before becoming pregnant. However, it is important to bear in mind that breastfeeding and pregnancy have altered the size and shape of the breast, jeopardising the results obtained from the reduction surgery. For this reason, many women opt for surgery when they are no longer thinking of getting pregnant again.
Can I continue to have mammograms after surgery?
Yes, there are no contraindications. As a breast cancer screening test, you can and should continue to take it if it is indicated.
After how long can I wear normal bras?
During the 30 days following surgery, you should always wear the surgical bra. After this time, you can wear another type of bra with which you feel comfortable.
Will the scar disappear?
All surgery involves scarring and breast reduction is no exception. Scars are permanent, although over time they can become thinner and lighter. The final result of a scar is expected after 12/18 months and its final appearance depends on the patient's genetic characteristics and post-operative care.
Can I lose sensitivity?
Changes in breast sensitivity are one of the complications of breast reduction surgery. However, most of these changes are transient.
Will I need drains in a reduction mammoplasty?
The use of drains in this surgery helps to eliminate the fluids that accumulate in the breast. Drains are placed whenever the surgeon deems it necessary and are usually removed after 24/48 hours.
Will I be in pain?
The post-operative period of a breast reduction is generally well tolerated but, as with any surgery, you can expect to feel discomfort and moderate pain. To alleviate these symptoms, you should strictly follow all the precautions indicated by the medical team.
When will I have the stitches removed?
Generally, the stitches from this surgery are absorbable, so they don't need to be removed.
How do I know if I need a breast reduction or a mastopexy without implants?
The choice between a breast reduction and a mastopexy without implants depends on your individual characteristics, needs and goals. If you are dissatisfied with the size and shape of your breasts, especially if they are considered too large in relation to your body and cause you physical discomfort, a breast reduction may be the right option. This procedure reduces the volume of the breast, as well as lifting and remodelling it to a desirable size and shape. On the other hand, if your main problem is related to sagging breasts, but you are satisfied with their size, a mastopexy without implants may be the most suitable choice. You should consult a qualified plastic surgeon to assess your situation and recommend the most appropriate approach to achieve your aesthetic and well-being goals. Consultation is essential to determine which intervention is best suited to your specific case.
What kind of scar will I have after a breast reduction?
After a breast reduction, most patients develop scars in the shape of an “inverted T” (anchor-shaped scars). These scars include a line around the areola, a vertical line descending from the areola to the breast crease and a horizontal line along the breast crease. The type of scar can vary depending on the extent of the reduction required and the surgical technique used. In some cases, depending on the amount of tissue to be removed and the elasticity of the skin, the surgeon may opt for a reduced scar technique, such as the periareolar scar (around the areola) or the vertical scar (L-shaped). The choice of scar type will be discussed during the initial medical consultation, taking into account your needs, objectives and the complexity of the case. It's important to remember that with time and proper care, scars tend to fade and become less visible.
When will I see the final result of the breast reduction?
As a rule, the immediate result is quite visible and satisfactory, but the final result is achieved around 12 months after surgery.
When can I start exercising again?
You can usually return to physical activity one month after surgery. However, it is recommended that you get your doctor's approval before starting.
How much does a reduction mammoplasty cost on average?
The average cost of a breast reduction can vary depending on several factors, such as the surgeon's experience, the surgical technique and the complexity of the case. It is recommended that you have a medical consultation with your plastic surgeon to get an accurate quote, based on your individual needs and goals.
Are there financing options or payment plans available to pay for a breast reduction?
Having financing options to help patients manage the cost of surgery is often a crucial factor when choosing the plastic surgeon and clinic where breast reduction is performed. At LMR, we have payment facilities to make it easier to pay for breast reduction surgery. Patients should be aware of the payment policies and requirements associated with these options at their initial consultation so that they can make informed decisions about financing their breast reduction. For more information on payment facilities, please contact us using the contact form or by email - geral@lmrcirurgiaplastica.pt.
