Female breast with hand on her chest
Surgeries

Breast reduction

Large and heavy breasts are a burden for many women. They cause pain in the neck, shoulders and upper back, and make it difficult to exercise. Large breasts are often hereditary and can cause problems even after puberty, but breasts can also become large and heavy after pregnancy and menopause.

The technical term for the condition of large breasts is macromastia or breast hypertrophy. Occasionally, the breasts are large and also asymmetrical, i.e. not the same size; in extreme cases, the difference can be up to an entire cup size. This imbalance can also be corrected surgically.

“Breast reduction enables you to have a symptom-free everyday life.”

Large breasts are genetic in most cases. In addition, hormone changes during pregnancy or menopause can also be the cause of breast hypertrophy (breasts that are too large).

A breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) removes excess skin, fat and glandular tissue, particularly in the lower breast area, and reduces the breasts to the desired size. Dr. Colette C. Camenisch then sculpts new breasts with great artistic skill. First, the inner part is reshaped and the overlying skin is tightened. Then, the areola is also reduced in size and the nipple is moved to its new position.

Recommended massages after treatment

Treatment information

Duration

Approx. 2.5 to 3 hours

Hospital stay

Outpatient or inpatient (with overnight stay), as required

Risks

Bleeding, infections, unsightly scars, numbness and sensory disorders, possible restriction of ability to breastfeed

Cost

The cost of such an operation varies and is agreed upon in advance.

Anesthesia

General anesthesia

Ability to work

After seven to 10 days

Aftercare

Tight fitting bra for approx. six weeks, during which time exercise is prohibited

Financing

Cashmed Medical Financing

The preparation, the procedure itself and also the aftercare were pleasant, professional and, above all, successful. The procedure has changed my life and improved my quality of life enormously. Dr. Camenisch and her team did a great job, which is why I can only warmly recommend them.

Ms. L. P.

Breast reduction

I never normally write reviews, but Dr. Camenisch more than deserves one! Overall, I'm very satisfied! I would highly recommend Ms. Camenisch, the team and your clinic!

Ms. T. K.

Breast reduction

Frequently asked questions

Are the nipples “shifted”?

As a result of the tissue and skin removal, the position of the nipples changes. In order to achieve an aesthetically appealing result, the areola is moved in relation to the new breast and the nipple is raised to a new position without affecting sensitivity.

How long will I be unable to work?

Depending on your profession, you can expect to be unable to work for approximately seven to 10 days should be expected. If you have a job involving heavy physical labor, you may be unable to work for up to four weeks.

When will I be able to exercise again?

After six to eight weeks, operation incisions have largely healed and you can slowly resume physical activity. You can engage in light exercise, such as walking or cycling, around four weeks after surgery. Strength training, jogging, tennis or swimming can only be resumed again after eight weeks.

Does health insurance pay for this procedure?

Since large, heavy breasts can pose a health problem (e.g. back pain, posture problems, restrictions in everyday life, etc.), health insurance covers the surgical and treatment costs of breast reduction surgery in individual cases, provided that, among other things, the following criteria are met:

  • At least 500 g of mammary gland tissue must be removed per side.
  • The patient may not be overweight or only slightly overweight (BMI < 25)
  • Pain and posture problems have so far been treated unsuccessfully with non-surgical treatments (e.g. physiotherapy).

What are the risks of breast reduction surgery?

In principle, every operation involves certain risks (e.g. post-operative bleeding, drug intolerance, wound healing disorders, inflammation, scarring or sensory disorders). They also depend on the individual's state of health. Dr. C. Camenisch discusses possible risks with you as part of the consultation and preparatory sessions.

Is breastfeeding possible after breast reduction surgery?

It depends on the surgical technique and individual anatomy. If enough milk-producing tissue remains in the upper parts of the breast from which the new breast is modelled, then breastfeeding is still possible even after breast reduction surgery.

Does breast reduction surgery leave visible scars?

The incision runs around the areola and below it vertically. A scar in the natural breast fold is also required. The extent to which these incisions remain visible depends on the individual, genetically caused scar formation. Breast reduction surgery usually leaves behind fine, light scars that are only marginally visible after a few months.

Do I have to tell you if I am taking medication?

It is extremely important that you always inform the treating doctor about any illnesses and medications you are taking. You should cease taking any blood-thinning medications (aspirin, aspegic or omega-3 fatty acids) two weeks before the procedure. Such medications can cause increased bleeding during surgery and delay the subsequent healing process. The doctor may decide not to perform a planned operation at any time if the surgical risk is increased as a result of the prior use of medication.

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