Breast Reduction

Breast Reduction in Istanbul — relief, shape, safety

Why consider a breast reduction?

Very large breasts can cause back, neck and shoulder pain, skin irritation in the inframammary fold, bra-strap grooves and limited mobility. A breast reduction removes excess glandular and fatty tissue, reshapes the breast to be more compact and higher (a lift is part of the procedure) and restores balance to body comfort. The goal is a natural, functional result that suits your silhouette.

Technique & scar patterns

Shaping is achieved by re-positioning the nipple–areola complex with secure blood supply (pedicle technique) and correcting the skin envelope. Depending on your anatomy, scars are vertical (“lollipop”) or T-shaped/anchor. The choice depends on volume, skin elasticity and desired projection. With marked asymmetry we plan side by side.

Anaesthesia, clinic & procedure

Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia in our partner clinics. Atraumatic dissection, meticulous haemostasis and, when helpful, short-term drains reduce tension and seroma. A support bra then stabilises shape and scars. Hospital stay is usually short; walking is encouraged while heavy lifting is avoided initially.

Aftercare — the key to a great result

• Wear the support bra consistently, sleep on your back, avoid pull and pressure on the incisions.
• Wound checks and dressing changes as scheduled; later scar care with silicone gel/tape and strict UV protection.
• Activity: walking immediately; exertion and sport are reintroduced in stages after medical clearance.
• Recovery basics: adequate protein, hydration and sleep — healing is a team sport.

Nicotine & healing — very important

Smoking — including vaping/nicotine replacement — constricts vessels, reduces tissue oxygen and impairs healing. Risks rise for edge necrosis, infection, wound breakdown, delayed scar maturation and perfusion problems of the nipple. Our clear advice: strict nicotine abstinence for several weeks before and after surgery. Patients who stop have noticeably less pain, fewer complications and better scars. If total cessation is hard, we’ll discuss support — but healing is safer without nicotine.

Results & longevity

Swelling subsides over the first weeks; the shape “settles” and looks increasingly natural as scars mature. Stable weight, good bra support and nicotine abstinence prolong durability. Major weight or hormonal changes can affect the breast again; a small touch-up lift can be done later if needed.

Risks — transparent

As with any operation: bleeding, haematoma, infection, seroma, wound-healing issues, more visible scars, temporary (rarely permanent) changes in nipple sensation, asymmetry; rarely fat embolism or thrombosis. Specific to reductions: perfusion issues in parts of the breast — risk is higher with nicotine, marked obesity or poor skin quality. Careful indication, blood-sparing technique, thrombosis prophylaxis and disciplined aftercare reduce the likelihood.

Breast-feeding & sensation

Depending on technique, breast-feeding often remains possible but cannot be guaranteed. Nipple/breast sensation is commonly altered at first and usually normalises gradually; a small residual asymmetry is possible and is factored into planning.