# Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty)

> A **Mammoplasty** or **Breast Reduction Surgery** is performed primarily to reduce breast size.

- Canonical page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/breast-reduction
- Category: [Breast Augmentation](https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure-category/breast-augmentation)
- Procedure directory: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedures.md
- Medical disclaimer: https://doctormaresky.co.za/medical-disclaimer


## Overview

A **Mammoplasty** or **Breast Reduction Surgery** is performed primarily to reduce breast size. There are many reasons why a breast size would need to be reduced, including discomfort. Breast reduction surgery can alleviate pain in the back, neck, and shoulders.

## The procedure

During **breast reduction surgery**, the surgeon removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with your body. The procedure may also include repositioning the nipple and areola to a more natural position.

## Candidate information

- **Description:** The ideal candidate would be in generally good health and have realistic expectations with the outcome. **Ideal candidates** should be:

### Criteria

- Patients who suffer from back pain/discomfort associated with large breasts
- Patients who want a slimmer appearance (hourglass figure)
- Patients with large sagging breasts

## Preparation

- **Timeline:** **2-4 weeks** before surgery

### Medical tests

- **Complete blood count (CBC)**
- **ECG if over 40 years old**
- **Chest X-ray if indicated**
- **COVID-19 test if required**

### Medications

#### Medications to discuss stopping

- **Stop** aspirin and blood thinners **2 weeks** prior
- **Stop** NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) **1 week** prior
- **Stop** herbal supplements (ginkgo, garlic, ginseng) **2 weeks** prior
- **Stop** vitamin E supplements **1 week** prior

#### Medications to continue

- **Continue** essential medications as advised by **Dr Maresky**
- **Inform Dr Maresky** of all current medications during consultation

### Lifestyle

- **Smoking:** **Quit** smoking at least **4 weeks** before surgery to promote proper healing and reduce complications

- **Alcohol:** **Avoid** alcohol **48 hours** before surgery

- **Fasting:** No food or drink after midnight the night before surgery (**NPO after midnight**)

### Arrangements

- **Arrange** transportation home after surgery - you cannot drive
- **Arrange** for a responsible adult to stay with you for the first **24-48 hours**
- **Prepare** recovery space at home with comfortable clothing and easy access to essentials
- **Stock** up on prescribed medications and recommended supplies
- **Arrange** time off work (**1-2 weeks** recommended, varies by procedure)
- **Plan** for help with childcare and household tasks during recovery

## Recovery and aftercare

The recovery period varies for each patient. To minimize swelling, a compression garment is worn post surgery and vigorous exercise is completely off-limits within the first **3 to 4 weeks**. The total healing time can be anything from **7 weeks to 10 weeks**.

## Expected results

Most patients experience **immediate relief** from physical symptoms such as back and neck pain. The final aesthetic results become apparent as swelling subsides, typically within **3-6 months**.

## Techniques

- **Anchor Pattern Technique:** This technique is ideal for large pendulous breast as the incision sites allow for removal of excess skin
- **Liposuction:** This technique is ideal for women with more fatty tissue than glandular tissue, as this leaves no visible scar.

## Frequently asked questions

### Will breast reduction help with back pain?

Yes, breast reduction surgery often significantly reduces or eliminates back, neck, and shoulder pain caused by the weight of large breasts.

### Will I be able to breastfeed after breast reduction?

While many women can still breastfeed after breast reduction, the ability may be reduced depending on the surgical technique used.

### What size will my breasts be after reduction?

The final breast size is determined during consultation based on your body proportions, desired outcome, and medical considerations.

### Will breast reduction affect my ability to breastfeed?

Breast reduction surgery may affect breastfeeding ability, as some milk ducts and glands may be removed. Discuss this with your surgeon if you plan to breastfeed in the future.

### Will my insurance cover breast reduction surgery?

Some insurance plans cover breast reduction when it's deemed medically necessary to relieve physical symptoms. Documentation of symptoms and prior treatments is typically required.

### What are the normal side effects after breast reduction?

Normal side effects include sore breasts, scars, bruising, swelling, and general discomfort. These typically subside within a few weeks.

### How much breast tissue is typically removed?

The amount varies based on individual needs, but typically ranges from **200g to over 1000g** per breast, depending on the starting size and desired outcome.

## Indicative pricing

- Estimate: R100,000 to R150,000 ZAR
- Cost factor: Amount of tissue removed
- Cost factor: Complexity
- Cost factor: Possible medical aid coverage
- Detailed cost page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/cost/breast-reduction
- Final pricing is confirmed after an individual consultation.

## Consultation and contact

- Consultation: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/general-consultation
- Contact: https://doctormaresky.co.za/contact