Breast Reduction
Breast reduction removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to create smaller, more proportionate breasts. Many women seek this procedure to relieve back, neck, and shoulder pain, skin irritation, bra strap grooving, or difficulty exercising and finding well-fitting clothing. The procedure also lifts and reshapes the breast, and is sometimes performed to correct significant asymmetry.
What does a breast reduction procedure involve?
Your surgeon will assess your breast size, degree of drooping, skin quality, and the amount of reduction needed. Surgery typically takes two to four hours under general anaesthetic. The technique used depends on the extent of reduction required:
Anchor (Inverted-T): The most common approach for larger reductions. Incisions run around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the crease.
Vertical (Lollipop): Suitable for moderate reductions. Incisions run around the areola and vertically to the crease, without the horizontal scar.
Periareolar (Donut): Used for smaller reductions. An incision around the areola only, with limited lifting capacity.
Excess tissue is removed, the nipple-areola complex is repositioned, and the breast is reshaped. Incisions are closed in layers with dissolvable sutures, and a supportive bra is fitted. Small drains may be placed and removed within a few days.
Your Recovery
Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common for the first one to two weeks. You will wear a supportive surgical bra for four to six weeks. Most patients return to desk work within two to three weeks, avoiding strenuous activity for six weeks. Breast shape continues to settle over twelve to eighteen months, and scars fade gradually but remain permanent.
Risks & Complications
Infection, bleeding, or haematoma
Changes in nipple or breast sensation
Partial or complete loss of nipple-areola complex (rare)
Difficulty or inability to breastfeed
Asymmetry in breast size, shape, or nipple position
Wound healing problems, particularly at the T-junction
Unfavourable or hypertrophic scarring
Fat necrosis
Need for revision surgery
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be able to breastfeed?
This varies. Some women breastfeed successfully after reduction, while others experience reduced milk production or are unable to breastfeed. Discuss this with your surgeon if future breastfeeding is important to you.
How much tissue will be removed?
This depends on your starting size and desired outcome. On average, two hundred to eight hundred grams per breast, though this varies considerably.
Will my results last?
Your breasts will continue to age naturally, but the improvement in position is generally long-lasting, particularly with stable weight.
Can I have breast reduction through the HSE?
Some procedures may be funded if you meet specific clinical criteria related to physical symptoms. Your GP or surgeon can advise on eligibility.
THE SPECIALIST CLINIC DUBLIN
Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery performed with Care & Compassion
To discuss whether breast reduction is suitable for you, contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our consultant plastic surgeons.