What Are the Benefits of Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction surgery—also known as reduction mammoplasty—is far more than a cosmetic procedure. It often brings profound improvements to a patient’s daily life by relieving physical discomfort and enhancing emotional well-being. By reducing both the volume and sagging (ptosis) of the breasts, patients experience lighter, higher, and better-proportioned breasts. The benefits are both physical and psychological:
- Relief from chronic pain in the back, shoulders, and neck due to the weight of large breasts
- Improved posture and a sense of physical freedom
- Easier participation in sports and physical activity
- Reduction of skin irritation and rashes under the breasts
- Aesthetic enhancement: breasts are lifted, reshaped, and better suited to the patient’s body proportions
- Increased confidence thanks to a more balanced and harmonious silhouette
In short, breast reduction provides a lasting solution to the physical and emotional burdens of overly large breasts.
What Does Breast Reduction Surgery Involve?
Breast reduction surgery is a procedure that decreases the size and weight of overly large breasts by removing excess glandular tissue, fat, and sometimes skin. At the same time, the remaining breast tissue is reshaped to achieve a lifted, firmer, and more youthful appearance. The nipple and areola are repositioned to align with the new contour of the breast.
Several surgical techniques may be used, depending on the degree of hypertrophy (excess volume) and skin elasticity. The most common approach involves an inverted T-shaped incision—vertical and horizontal incisions that result in a “keyhole” or “anchor” scar. In patients with moderate breast volume or greater skin elasticity, a vertical-only scar may be sufficient.
Breast sensitivity is typically preserved, and most women retain the ability to breastfeed. The procedure improves both appearance and physical comfort, with highly satisfying and long-lasting results.
The Surgical Process
If you have a personal or family history of breast cancer, your surgeon may request a mammogram and breast ultrasound prior to the operation.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, which requires a preoperative consultation with an anesthesiologist at least 48 hours before the procedure.
Most patients are admitted in the afternoon and discharged the following morning. In some cases, outpatient surgery (same-day discharge) is possible.
Pain following surgery is generally mild and easily managed with medication. However, plan to take 5 to 7 days off work for recovery.
Our Surgical Technique: The Superior-Internal Pedicle Method
Unlike many surgeons who use a superior pedicle approach, our team uses a specialized technique known as the superior-internal pedicle, first described by Canadian surgeon Dr. Elisabeth Hall-Findlay. This method has significant advantages:
- Reduces the risk of areola or nipple necrosis (less than 1% in our experience)
- Preserves sensation in the nipple and areola, maintaining this erogenous zone
- Supports future breastfeeding, which is typically not possible with other techniques
Minimizes tissue trauma, which allows us to perform breast reduction as outpatient surgery and often without the use of drains
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the possible complications of breast reduction?
The main complication is a temporary or long-term loss of sensitivity in the nipple and areola (around 30% of cases). Rarely, hematomas (internal bleeding) can occur within 24 hours of surgery.
In cases of very large breasts, there’s a small risk (5%) of areola necrosis, which may require surgical grafting.
What do breast reduction scars look like?
Scars are initially red and thick during the first 3 months and then gradually fade over 12–18 months. We provide guidance on scar care to promote optimal healing.
Is breast reduction painful?
The procedure is generally well-tolerated. Most patients describe the sensation as moderate tightness or discomfort rather than true pain. As the surgery does not affect the chest muscles, pain is usually minimal. Slight stinging or sensitivity around the incision sites may persist briefly.
What does post-operative care involve?
The day after surgery, any drains are removed. Dressings are changed daily after a shower. Disinfecting the incision and applying fresh dressings in a support bra should be done daily, either on your own or with the help of a visiting nurse for the first few days.
A support bra must be worn 24/7 for at least 3 weeks following surgery.
How long do I need to wear a bra after surgery?
You should wear a medical-grade support bra continuously for the first month post-op to aid healing and support the new breast shape.
What cup size will I have after a breast reduction?
Most patients begin with a cup size larger than D or E. After surgery, we aim to achieve a natural-looking C cup for proper shape and balance. Some patients may request a B cup, but we advise that excessively small reductions may create a flatter and less aesthetic appearance.
Can I breastfeed after breast reduction?
With our technique, most patients retain the ability to breastfeed. However, it’s important to discuss this during your consultation, especially if you plan to have children in the future.
Pricing and Insurance Coverage
How much does a breast reduction cost?
If more than 300 grams of breast tissue is removed from each breast, the procedure qualifies for reimbursement by French Social Security. In these cases, our additional surgical fees range from €3,800 to €4,500, which may be partially or fully reimbursed by your supplementary health insurance.
If less than 300 grams are removed, the procedure is considered cosmetic and costs between €7,500 and €9,000.
Is breast reduction covered by insurance?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. To qualify for insurance coverage, the reduction must involve at least 300 grams per breast and meet medical necessity criteria. This determination will be made during your surgical consultation.