Breast plastic surgery procedures
Breast plastic surgery procedures are operations designed to improve the shape, size, symmetry and proportions of the breasts. They include breast augmentation with implants, breast reduction, breast lift surgery, also known as mastopexy, and gynaecomastia surgery for men, which reduces enlarged breast tissue and improves the contour of the chest.
Breast plastic surgery procedures
Breast plastic surgery procedures are performed when a patient wishes to improve breast shape, volume, symmetry or overall body proportions.
For women, these procedures may help increase breast volume, restore fullness after pregnancy or weight loss, reduce excessively large breasts or lift sagging breast tissue.
For men, breast surgery may be required in cases of gynaecomastia, when enlarged glandular tissue or changes in the shape of the chest cause aesthetic, physical or emotional discomfort.
Each surgical plan is developed individually following a consultation with a plastic surgeon.
Breast augmentation
Breast augmentation is performed when a woman wishes to increase breast volume, improve breast shape or restore fullness lost after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss.
The aim of the procedure is to increase breast size and achieve the desired shape using implants.
The size, shape and position of the implants, as well as the surgical technique, are selected individually according to the patient’s body proportions, chest anatomy, skin quality and desired result.
How is breast augmentation performed?
Breast augmentation is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes approximately one and a half to two hours.
A consultation with a plastic surgeon is required before surgery. During the consultation, the doctor assesses the patient’s health, breast shape and symmetry and selects the most appropriate implant option.
The doctor also explains the procedure, available implant options, potential risks, the recovery period and postoperative recommendations.
Implants or fat transfer — which is better for breast augmentation?
Breast augmentation may be performed using implants or the patient’s own fat, known as fat transfer or lipofilling.
There is no single method that is best for everyone. The most appropriate option depends on the patient’s anatomy, desired increase in volume, breast shape, skin quality, body proportions and the amount of fatty tissue available in donor areas.
Breast implants are generally more suitable when the patient wants a more noticeable, predictable and stable increase in breast volume. Implants allow the size, projection and shape of the breasts to be planned more precisely.
Breast augmentation with the patient’s own fat may be suitable for those who want a more natural and moderate increase in volume while also correcting other areas of the body with liposuction.
Some of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed after the procedure, so the result develops gradually and may not be as pronounced as with implants.
A plastic surgeon helps select the most suitable method during the consultation.
How long do breast implants last?
Breast implants are not designed as lifetime devices, but this does not mean that they must automatically be replaced after a specific number of years.
Their lifespan varies and depends on the type of implant, the body’s response, lifestyle, changes in breast tissue, pregnancy, weight fluctuations and possible complications.
Some patients may have implants for many years without problems, while others may require revision surgery because of implant damage, capsular contracture, changes in breast shape, sagging tissue or aesthetic reasons.
Regular check-ups and examinations recommended by the doctor help assess the condition of the implants and determine whether replacement or correction is required.
Can you breastfeed after breast augmentation?
Many women are able to breastfeed after breast augmentation, particularly when the milk-producing tissue, milk ducts and nerves have not been significantly damaged during surgery.
The ability to breastfeed may be influenced by the location of the incision, implant placement, the patient’s original breast anatomy and the reason the procedure was performed.
Implants are often placed behind the breast tissue or beneath the muscle and therefore do not necessarily interfere with milk production or breastfeeding.
However, breastfeeding after surgery cannot be guaranteed because each patient’s anatomy and hormonal response are different.
Patients who plan to become pregnant or breastfeed in the future should inform the plastic surgeon during the consultation so that the procedure can be planned as conservatively as possible.
How long is the recovery period after breast augmentation?
Recovery after breast augmentation varies from patient to patient.
During the first few days, swelling, tightness, sensitivity, discomfort and limited arm movement may occur. It is particularly important to follow the doctor’s instructions and avoid unnecessary strain during this period.
Many patients may return to lighter daily activities after one to two weeks if they feel well and the doctor gives permission.
Physical exertion, heavy lifting, intensive exercise and active arm movements generally need to be restricted for longer.
More complete recovery and stabilisation of the breast shape take place gradually over several weeks or months.
The plastic surgeon determines the exact postoperative routine, how long a compression bra should be worn and when physical activities may be resumed.
Does breast augmentation leave visible scars?
Yes, breast augmentation leaves scars because incisions or injection sites are required to insert implants or transfer fat.
However, the incisions are planned so that the scars are as discreet as possible.
When implants are used, the incisions are most commonly placed in the crease beneath the breast, around the areola or in another location selected by the surgeon according to the surgical plan.
Initially, scars may be pink, firm or more noticeable. Over time, they usually become lighter, softer and less visible.
The appearance of scars is influenced by skin characteristics, genetics, postoperative care, sun protection, smoking and the individual healing process.
Following the doctor’s instructions and avoiding unnecessary irritation of the scar area can support better healing.
Breast reduction
Breast reduction is an operation that reduces breast volume in proportion to the patient’s body and improves breast shape.
It is performed when enlarged or sagging breasts cause functional or emotional discomfort.
Excessively large breasts may cause heaviness, back, neck or shoulder discomfort, difficulties with exercise, irritation beneath the breasts and restrictions when choosing clothing.
The aim of surgery is to reduce breast size, improve shape and create more balanced body proportions.
How is breast reduction performed?
Breast reduction is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes approximately two and a half to three hours.
During surgery, the volume of the breast tissue and other excess tissue is reduced, the breast shape is improved and, when necessary, the position of the nipple and areola is corrected.
The surgical technique is selected individually according to breast size, the degree of sagging, skin quality and the patient’s preferences.
What symptoms may indicate that breast reduction is appropriate?
Breast reduction may be suitable for women whose breast size causes physical or emotional discomfort.
Common concerns include back, neck and shoulder pain, a feeling of heaviness in the breasts, bra-strap indentations on the shoulders and irritation or rashes beneath the breasts.
Breast reduction may also be considered when large breasts restrict sporting activities, make it difficult to find suitable clothing, interfere with everyday movement or cause emotional discomfort.
A plastic surgeon determines whether the procedure is suitable after assessing breast size, sagging, body proportions, general health and the patient’s symptoms.
Is breast reduction publicly funded when medically indicated?
The possibility of public funding must be clarified individually.
When breast reduction is required for medical reasons, such as significant functional symptoms, the doctor may assess whether additional examinations, specialist opinions or referrals are required.
Aesthetic breast reduction is generally a privately funded service.
When medical indications are present, information about possible public funding, availability, waiting lists, patient contributions and required documentation should be obtained from the National Health Service or the medical institution where the operation is planned.
How much tissue is removed during breast reduction?
The amount of tissue removed is determined individually.
During surgery, the volume of glandular tissue, fatty tissue and excess skin is reduced to make the breasts more proportionate to the body and relieve symptoms.
There is no standard amount that is removed from every patient.
The surgeon plans the operation according to the patient’s body proportions, original breast size, degree of sagging, skin quality, health and desired result.
The aim is to achieve smaller, lighter, more proportionate and aesthetically balanced breasts.
Can you breastfeed after breast reduction?
The ability to breastfeed may remain after breast reduction, but it cannot be guaranteed.
During surgery, the nipple and areola are repositioned, breast volume is reduced and the breast shape is changed. In some cases, this may affect the milk ducts, glandular tissue or sensation.
Patients who plan to become pregnant and breastfeed in the future should inform the plastic surgeon during the consultation.
The doctor may select a technique intended to preserve breastfeeding potential as much as possible, but the ability to breastfeed cannot be predicted with complete accuracy.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding may also affect the future shape, size and surgical result of the breasts.
How long is the recovery period after breast reduction?
Recovery after breast reduction varies and depends on the extent of surgery, the patient’s health, tissue healing and compliance with the doctor’s instructions.
Swelling, bruising, sensitivity, tightness and discomfort may occur during the first few days.
Many patients may return to lighter daily activities after several weeks. However, physical exertion, heavy lifting, intensive exercise and active arm movements usually need to be restricted for longer.
A special postoperative bra or compression garment may need to be worn.
More complete recovery and stabilisation of the breast shape occur gradually over several weeks or months.
The plastic surgeon determines the postoperative routine, return-to-work schedule, exercise restrictions and follow-up appointments individually.
Breast lift, or mastopexy
A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is an operation that corrects sagging breast tissue and moves the areola to a more anatomically appropriate position.
The aim of the operation is to lift the breasts in proportion to the body and improve their shape.
Mastopexy is suitable when the breasts have lost firmness or sagged following pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes or ageing.
A breast lift may improve breast contour, symmetry and visible firmness.
How is breast lift surgery performed?
Breast lift surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes approximately two and a half to three hours.
During the operation, excess skin is removed, the breast is reshaped and the areola is repositioned.
In some cases, mastopexy may be combined with breast augmentation or reduction when both breast position and volume need to be improved.
The plastic surgeon determines the most appropriate solution during the consultation.
What is the difference between a breast lift and breast augmentation?
The main aim of a breast lift is to correct sagging, move the nipple and areola to a more appropriate position, remove excess skin and improve breast shape.
A breast lift does not necessarily increase breast volume significantly.
Breast augmentation increases breast volume and improves shape using implants or the patient’s own fat. It is suitable for patients who want larger breasts or wish to restore lost fullness.
When the breasts are sagging and also lack volume, a combined breast lift with implants may be the most suitable option.
Will the breasts sag again after mastopexy?
Mastopexy lifts and reshapes the breasts, but it does not stop the natural ageing process.
Breast shape may change over time because of skin elasticity, gravity, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, breastfeeding, hormonal changes and individual tissue characteristics.
The result is generally long-lasting. Maintaining a stable body weight, wearing a suitable bra, following a healthy lifestyle and observing postoperative recommendations may help preserve it.
Significant future changes in the body may cause some degree of recurrent sagging, and revision surgery may occasionally be required.
Can a breast lift and implants be combined in one operation?
Yes, mastopexy may be combined with breast augmentation using implants during the same operation when the plastic surgeon considers it appropriate.
This approach is selected when sagging breasts need to be lifted and their volume restored or increased at the same time.
Combined surgery may improve breast position, shape and fullness.
However, it is technically more complex than either a lift or augmentation alone, so the surgical plan must be assessed carefully and individually.
During the consultation, the doctor evaluates the degree of sagging, skin quality, existing breast volume, the patient’s wishes and body proportions to select the safest and most aesthetically appropriate option.
How long do scars remain after mastopexy?
Mastopexy leaves scars because excess skin is removed and the breasts are reshaped.
Scar placement depends on the surgical technique and degree of sagging. Scars may be positioned around the areola, vertically from the areola downwards or within the crease beneath the breast.
Initially, scars may be pink, firm or more noticeable. Over time, they generally become lighter, softer and less visible, although they do not disappear completely.
Scar maturation may take several months to a year or longer.
Their appearance is influenced by skin characteristics, genetics, postoperative care, sun protection, smoking and the individual healing process.
The doctor provides personalised recommendations for scar care after surgery.
What is the most suitable age for breast lift surgery?
There is no single age that is considered best for a breast lift.
The patient’s health, degree of sagging, skin quality, body weight, lifestyle and wishes are more important than age.
Mastopexy is often chosen after pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes or age-related changes in breast shape.
The procedure is best planned when the patient’s weight is stable and she understands that future pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations may affect the result.
A plastic surgeon determines suitability for mastopexy during the consultation after assessing both medical and aesthetic factors.
Gynaecomastia surgery for men
Gynaecomastia is a condition in which a man has enlarged glandular breast tissue or increased breast volume.
During gynaecomastia surgery, the contour of the male chest is restored and deformities affecting the breast, nipple and areola are corrected.
The enlarged glandular tissue is reduced, and fatty tissue or excess skin may also be corrected when necessary.
The aim of the operation is to reduce the breast tissue and create a flatter, firmer and more balanced chest contour.
How is gynaecomastia surgery performed?
Gynaecomastia surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes approximately one to one and a half hours.
The surgical method is selected individually according to the amount of glandular tissue and fat, skin elasticity and chest shape.
A consultation is required before surgery so that the plastic surgeon can assess the chest anatomy, general health and the most appropriate surgical plan.
What causes gynaecomastia in men?
Gynaecomastia is enlargement of the glandular breast tissue in men.
It is most commonly caused by changes in hormonal balance, particularly the relationship between oestrogen and testosterone.
Gynaecomastia may occur during adolescence, adulthood or ageing and may also be associated with certain health conditions.
It may be encouraged by excess weight, certain medications, anabolic steroid use, alcohol, chronic diseases, hormonal disorders or an individual bodily response.
In some cases, the exact cause cannot be determined without further examinations.
If the breast enlargement is one-sided, painful, rapidly progressing or associated with a palpable lump, medical assessment is required to exclude other conditions.
Can gynaecomastia be treated without surgery?
In some cases, gynaecomastia may be treated without surgery.
The approach depends on the cause, duration, type of tissue and severity of symptoms.
Gynaecomastia during adolescence may resolve naturally, so the doctor may recommend monitoring.
When it is caused by medication, hormonal changes, excess weight or another treatable factor, the underlying cause may need to be addressed first.
In cases of pseudogynaecomastia, where the breast volume is mainly caused by fatty tissue, weight loss and lifestyle changes may help.
When glandular tissue is pronounced, persists for a long time or causes pain, discomfort or emotional distress, surgical correction may be required.
The doctor determines the most appropriate treatment strategy during the consultation.
What is the difference between fatty and glandular gynaecomastia?
True gynaecomastia means that the glandular breast tissue is enlarged.
This tissue is generally firmer, may be felt beneath the areola or nipple and cannot always be reduced through weight loss.
Pseudogynaecomastia means that the increased breast volume is mainly caused by fatty tissue rather than glandular tissue.
It is more commonly associated with excess weight or localised fat deposits in the chest area.
The treatment approach may differ. In some cases, liposuction alone may be sufficient, while in others a combined technique is required.
A mixed form involving both glandular and fatty tissue is common.
During the consultation, the doctor assesses the structure of the tissue, chest shape, skin elasticity and the most suitable surgical plan.
How long is recovery after gynaecomastia surgery?
Recovery after gynaecomastia surgery varies according to the extent of surgery, the technique used, the amount of tissue removed, skin elasticity and the patient’s general health.
Swelling, bruising, sensitivity, tightness or discomfort in the chest area may occur during the first few days.
Many patients may return to lighter daily activities after several days or one to two weeks if they feel well and the doctor gives permission.
Physical exertion, heavy lifting, intensive exercise and loading of the chest muscles generally need to be restricted for longer.
A compression garment may need to be worn to reduce swelling and support tissue healing.
The final result develops gradually over several weeks or months as the swelling decreases and the tissues stabilise.
Can gynaecomastia return after surgery?
The results of gynaecomastia surgery are generally long-lasting, particularly when the enlarged glandular tissue is removed and the patient maintains a stable body weight.
However, enlargement of the chest area may occasionally recur or become visible again.
Possible contributing factors include significant weight gain, hormonal disorders, anabolic steroid use, certain medications or an untreated underlying cause.
If the amount of fatty tissue in the chest increases after surgery, it may create an appearance similar to pseudogynaecomastia even if the glandular tissue does not regrow.
Maintaining a stable body weight, avoiding anabolic steroids, following the doctor’s recommendations and assessing hormonal or general health concerns when necessary may help preserve the result.
Preparing for breast plastic surgery
A consultation with a plastic surgeon is required before any breast plastic surgery procedure.
The doctor assesses the patient’s health, anatomy, skin quality, body proportions and treatment goals.
The procedure, type of anaesthesia, preparation, potential risks, scar placement, recovery period and expected result are explained during the consultation.
Tests, examinations or consultations with additional specialists may be required before surgery.
Recovery after breast plastic surgery
Swelling, bruising, sensitivity, tightness or discomfort in the operated area may occur after breast surgery.
These reactions are generally temporary, but recovery varies according to the type and extent of surgery.
Patients should follow the doctor’s instructions, attend follow-up appointments and avoid physical overexertion.
Depending on the procedure, a special postoperative bra or compression garment may need to be worn.
If severe pain, pronounced swelling, redness, discharge, fever or other concerning symptoms occur, the specialist should be contacted immediately.
Common myths about breast plastic surgery
Myth: Breast plastic surgery always means breast augmentation.
Breast plastic surgery includes several different procedures, such as breast augmentation, breast reduction, breast lift surgery and gynaecomastia correction for men. Each procedure has a different aim, and the most appropriate solution is selected individually.
Myth: A breast lift always increases breast size.
The main purpose of mastopexy is to lift sagging breasts and improve their shape rather than necessarily increasing volume. When an increase in size is also desired, a breast lift may be combined with implants.
Myth: Gynaecomastia is only an aesthetic concern.
Gynaecomastia may cause not only aesthetic concerns but also emotional distress and everyday physical discomfort. The aim of surgery is to reduce enlarged glandular tissue and restore a more balanced male chest contour.
