BREAST SURGERY
Reduce the size and improve the shape of overly large breasts — easing back, neck and shoulder pain and restoring comfortable, balanced proportions.
THE PROMISE
Also referred to as reduction mammoplasty, this procedure reduces the size and improves the shape of the breasts. Typically, women who are candidates for this procedure have physical symptoms related to the weight or shape of their breasts. These symptoms include back pain, neck pain and bra strap grooves in the shoulders.
The incisions vary based on the breast size before the operation and the final post-operative size. An incision is made around the nipple and areola accompanied by a vertical incision below the areola with or without a horizontal incision made in the crease below the breast. Short scar techniques are frequently applicable in breast reduction surgery and allow excellent reduction of size with improved shape while limiting the extent of the incisions. For reduction of very large breasts, in some cases the nipple and areola may need to be surgically removed and reapplied as a graft. Removing and reapplying the nipple/areola tissue will result in the loss of nipple sensation and the inability to breastfeed.
FROM INSTAGRAM
Short videos Dr Karatzias has shared on Instagram.
Before and after
Just one week after breast reduction
Breast reduction — before surgery, in theatre and at post-operative check-ups
Pre-operative marking and measuring
Dr Karatzias with a patient marked for surgery
Dr Karatzias with post-operative views
AT A GLANCE
PROCEDURE TIME
3 hours
ANAESTHESIA
General anaesthesia
DISCOMFORT
Mild post-operative pain
RECOVERY TIME
2 weeks
VISIBLE RESULTS
Immediately, final results in 2 to 4 weeks
HOW LONG IT LASTS
Permanent
Risks include unfavourable scarring, loss of nipple sensation, loss of ability to breastfeed, loss of nipple and breast tissue, unsatisfactory shape and failure to achieve aesthetic goals.
Usually recovery requires two weeks. Most patients return to normal activities within that period of time. Strenuous physical activities are discouraged for three to six weeks after the surgery.
Most patients who undergo a reduction mammoplasty are pleased with the size and the shape of their breasts and are delighted with the improvement and lessening of the symptoms of pain and discomfort that they experienced due to the weight of their breasts. Breast reduction makes physical activities easier and patients enjoy their new appearance and ability to wear clothing that was uncomfortable or unattractive before the surgery was performed.
We use the most advanced surgical technology, disposables and techniques when performing treatments and procedures to maximise your results and diminish the length of your recovery period. To reduce risks and maintain as much of the results for as long as possible we recommend that you refrain from smoking for a minimum of six weeks prior to the surgery and for the duration of your recovery period. Please also note that for this particular procedure if you become pregnant or lose a significant amount of weight, you should wait until after your body has reached a stable equilibrium.
To determine if this procedure is right for you, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Karatzias. During the consultation, your concerns will be discussed in depth and the best surgical or non-surgical solution will be determined, always having your trepidations and expectations in mind.
+357 22 275522
BEFORE & AFTER CASES
Results vary from person to person.
Where will the scars be, and how visible are they?
The scars sit around the areola and run vertically beneath it, sometimes with a further line in the crease under the breast — so they fall in areas a bra or swimwear typically covers. Short scar techniques are frequently used to limit how far the incisions extend. Scars are permanent but usually fade and settle over the months that follow.
How much time off work will I need?
Recovery usually takes two weeks, and most people return to normal activities within that time. Strenuous physical activity is best avoided for three to six weeks after surgery. How quickly you feel ready also depends on how physically demanding your job is.
Will it ease my back, neck and shoulder pain?
For many women that is the main benefit. Reducing the weight the breasts place on the back and shoulders often relieves the back pain, neck pain and bra strap grooves that come with very large breasts, and tends to make everyday physical activity easier. The likely outcome for your own symptoms is discussed at your consultation.
What anaesthetic is used, and does it hurt afterwards?
Breast reduction is carried out under general anaesthetic, so you are asleep and feel nothing during the operation. Afterwards most people describe soreness and tightness rather than sharp pain, settling over the first week or two and managed with simple pain relief and a supportive garment.
Are the results permanent?
The reduction itself is lasting. That said, significant weight change, pregnancy or the natural effects of ageing and gravity can alter the breasts over time — which is why we suggest waiting until your weight is stable, and ideally until after planned pregnancies, before having surgery.
Can breast reduction be combined with other procedures?
Often, yes. Reducing the breasts naturally lifts and reshapes them, and in suitable cases it can be planned alongside other body or breast procedures. Whether combining is right and safe for you depends on your health and goals, and is decided together at your consultation.
RELATED PROCEDURES
Lift and reshape sagging breasts to a higher, firmer position.
Enhance breast size and shape with implants or fat transfer.
Correct or update the results of a previous breast operation.
Book a consultation with Dr. Karatzias to discuss breast reduction. In-person in Cyprus.
CALL +357 22 275522
Staying at the forefront of medical advancement. Dr. Karatzias is proudly accredited by leading global organizations in both Plastic Surgery and Wound Management.
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