Surgical reduction of overly large breasts — relieving chronic back, neck and shoulder pain while achieving a proportionate, comfortable and aesthetically pleasing contour.
Reduction mammoplasty removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin to achieve a breast size proportionate to your body. Women with very large breasts (macromastia) frequently suffer chronic back pain, neck pain, shoulder grooving from bra straps, skin rashes beneath the breast and difficulty exercising. Breast reduction is one of the highest patient-satisfaction surgeries performed — most patients describe it as life-changing.
Dr. Thusay assesses breast volume, grade of ptosis and your reduction goal. A target cup size is discussed and the surgical approach (vertical, inverted-T or liposuction) selected.
Blood tests, health clearance, mammogram if indicated. Cease blood thinners 2 weeks prior.
Under general anaesthesia. Excess tissue removed, nipple repositioned, breast reshaped and skin closed with absorbable sutures. Drains may be placed.
Surgical bra for 6 weeks. Light activity at 2 weeks, exercise at 6 weeks. Drain removed at day 2–3.
Most patients notice immediate relief from symptoms. Final shape visible at 3 months as swelling resolves.
Scars depend on the technique used. A vertical technique leaves a lollipop-shaped scar around the areola and vertically down. An inverted-T adds a horizontal scar in the fold. Scars are placed in bra-covered areas and fade significantly over 12–18 months.
Breastfeeding capacity may be reduced after breast reduction, particularly with techniques that reposition the nipple. Dr. Thusay uses nipple-sparing techniques wherever possible. If breastfeeding is a priority, this is discussed in detail at consultation.
Breast reduction for documented macromastia causing physical symptoms (back pain, shoulder grooving, skin conditions) may be covered by some insurance plans. Our team will assist with the insurance assessment and paperwork.
Surgery is recommended after breast development is complete — typically 17–18 years. In cases of severe macromastia causing significant physical symptoms at a younger age, earlier surgery may be considered.
This depends on your starting size, target outcome and blood supply to the nipple. Dr. Thusay will advise the safe maximum reduction for your anatomy at the consultation.
Temporary changes in nipple sensitivity (increased or decreased) are common in the first 3–6 months and usually resolve. Permanent altered sensation is uncommon with modern techniques.
Most patients notice significant relief from back and shoulder pain within days of surgery as the weight is removed. Complete relief typically occurs over 4–6 weeks as post-operative swelling resolves.
There is no non-surgical equivalent to reduction mammoplasty for true macromastia. Weight loss can reduce breast size modestly in some women but is not reliable or sufficient for significant macromastia.
Dr. Pranav Thusay will personally assess your case and create a tailored plan.