Breast reduction (also reduction mammaplasty) is the plastic surgery procedure for reducing the size of large breasts.

Macromastia presents heavy, enlarged breasts that sag and cause her chronic pains to the head, neck, shoulders, and back; an oversized bust also causes her secondary health problems, such as poor blood circulation, impaired breathing (inability to fill the lungs with air); chafing of the skin of the chest and the lower breast (inframammary intertrigo); brassière-strap indentations to the shoulders.

In a breast reduction surgery for re-establishing a functional bust that is proportionate to the woman's body, the critical corrective consideration is the tissue viability of the nipple–areola complex (NAC), to ensure the functional sensitivity and lactational capability of the breasts. The indications for breast reduction surgery are three-fold – physical, aesthetic, and psychological – the restoration of the bust, of the woman's self-image, and of her mental health.

After the operation, the person can continue her daily life within 1 week. The small incision and stitch scars that are visible after the operation turn into the skin color and become indistinct after approximately 3-4 months.

In corrective practice, the surgical techniques and praxis for reduction mammoplasty also are applied to mastopexy (breast lift).

After breast reduction surgery, it is recommended to rest at home for at least 3, optimum 7 days. It is extremely important to use antibiotics and painkillers prescribed by the physician in the specified dose and duration after the operation. Using a sports bra that does not put pressure on the breasts and prevents them from shaking is also of great importance in reducing the amount of pain and shaping the breasts.

How Old Do You Have to Be for Breast Reduction Surgery?

Depending on a variety of factors, certain individuals may qualify as breast reduction candidates when they are as young as 15, although some insurance providers require patients to be at least 16 years old to receive coverage. However, there are no official age restrictions currently set in place for breast reduction.

Can breasts grow after reduction ?

Breast reduction surgery is a permanent way to make your breasts smaller. The fat and other breast tissue removed during breast reduction can't grow back. However, if you gain weight after your procedure, new fat can accumulate in your breasts and make them grow in size.