Very large breasts (gigantomastia or macromastia) are a physical burden: neck, shoulder and back pain, grooves from bra straps, rashes and dermatitis in the fold under the breast, difficulty exercising and finding clothes that fit. Breast Reduction removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin, lifts the breast and repositions the nipple to a natural height.
It is one of the most consistently rewarding operations in plastic surgery because it treats symptoms as well as appearance.
Who Breast Reduction Is For
- Back, neck or shoulder pain attributable to breast weight
- Recurrent rashes or dermatitis under the breasts
- Bra-strap grooving on the shoulders
- Difficulty exercising or finding clothes because of breast size
- Marked asymmetry, where one breast is reduced to match the other
- A stable weight; family complete if breastfeeding is important to you
How the Surgery Is Done
The excess tissue is removed and the breast reshaped around a pedicle that carries the nipple and areola to their new position, preserving their blood supply and, in most cases, sensation. The scars run around the areola and vertically down to the fold under the breast; for larger reductions a scar along the fold is added (the 'anchor' pattern). They are placed strategically and fade over time. Liposuction of the side of the chest is often added to blend the contour.
Breast Reduction is done under general anaesthesia as a day-care procedure.
Recovery
A supportive bra is worn day and night for about six weeks. Pain is moderate for the first few days and relief from back and shoulder strain is often noticed almost immediately. Most women return to desk work in one to two weeks and to exercise at four to six weeks. Scars are red and raised for a few months and continue to fade for a year or more.
Risks and Limitations
Changes in nipple sensation, wound-healing delay at the junction of the scars, asymmetry, inability to breastfeed and, rarely, loss of part of the nipple are the recognised risks and are discussed before surgery. The breasts remain subject to the effects of weight change, pregnancy and ageing.
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Part of Breast Plastic Surgery in Bangalore — see the overview for the full range of procedures, including those without a dedicated page.
Need More Information?
Call +91 95355 81616, email connect@drvybhavderaje.com or book an appointment online .
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Breast Reduction help back pain?
Breast Reduction treats very large breasts (gigantomastia) and relieves symptoms such as back pain, rashes and dermatitis caused by their weight — often noticeably within days of surgery.
Is Breast Reduction a day-care procedure?
Yes. It is done under general anaesthesia and most women go home the same day with a supportive bra.
What do the scars look like after Breast Reduction?
Around the areola and vertically down to the breast fold, with a scar along the fold for larger reductions. They are placed strategically and fade over time.
Can I breastfeed after Breast Reduction?
Many women can, because the nipple stays attached to breast tissue on a pedicle, but it cannot be guaranteed. If breastfeeding is important, discuss timing at consultation.
How much smaller will my breasts be?
That is decided with you at consultation. The aim is a size in proportion with your frame that removes the weight causing symptoms; cup-size changes are an approximation, and the surgeon works to shape rather than a bra size.
Is a consultation a commitment to surgery?
No. Use the consultation to understand your options, alternatives, limitations and recovery, then take the time you need to decide.
This page is general information written by Dr Vybhav Deraje for patients and families. It does not replace an individual consultation; treatment plans depend on clinical assessment.