BREAST REDUCTION IN PARIS: PROCEDURE, RESULTS AND FOLLOW-UP

BREAST REDUCTION: UNDERSTANDING BREAST HYPERTROPHY AND MEDICAL INDICATIONS

WHAT IS BREAST HYPERTROPHY?

Breast hypertrophy designates a excessive breast enlargement, often of hormonal or genetic origin, or linked to life events such as pregnancy. pregnancy or the weight gain. This large volume is not just an aesthetic issue. It can lead to chronic back and neck pain, shoulder tension and even skin irritation under the mammary folds. I remember the case of Claire, aged 36, who could no longer run without discomfort or pain. For her, breast reduction changed her daily life far beyond the mirror.

Note that in men, a similar excessive development is called gynecomastia, and may also require appropriate surgical intervention.

WHAT ARE THE GOALS OF BREAST REDUCTION?

The aim of this procedure is to reduce the weight of the breasts, improve their shape, reposition the areolas and, if necessary, correct an abnormality. breast ptosis (sagging breasts). This procedure is akin to a genuine breast lift, It's a functional as well as an aesthetic surgery. It's a surgery that's as functional as it is aesthetic: it makes it possible to relieve pain, regain body mobility and restore self-confidence. It's not a question of «small breasts» at any price, but of a volume adapted to each woman's morphology and lifestyle.

BREAST REDUCTION IN PARIS: PROFILES CONCERNED AND INDICATION CRITERIA

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY?

Breast reduction is intended for adult women with physical or psychological discomfort linked to oversized breasts. Some are young, students who have had a complex about their breasts since secondary school and avoid sports classes. Others are in their 40s or 50s, after several pregnancies, and experience increasing body fatigue. In some cases, obesity can accentuate postural imbalances or back pain linked to breast hypertrophy. Some patients consult us at menopause, This is a time when hormonal changes can accentuate the discomfort associated with large breasts.

The medical criterion for Social Security coverage is the removal of at least 300 grams per breast. But beyond the numbers, it's the functional discomfort that counts.

Breast reduction after pregnancy or weight loss: when is it appropriate?

It is advisable to wait several months after childbirth or significant weight loss before considering surgery. Breast tissue takes time to stabilize. In some cases, a breast lift after weight loss can be considered to correct both excess skin and sagging gland. The idea is to operate on an «established» breast, to guarantee a lasting aesthetic result. For young mother Julie, for example, we scheduled the operation 8 months after her breast-feeding, to allow time for her figure to settle.

PREPARING FOR BREAST REDUCTION: EXAMS, MAMMOGRAMS, QUITTING SMOKING AND DEADLINES

WHAT PRECAUTIONS SHOULD BE TAKEN BEFORE SURGERY?

Thorough preparation is essential. At the first appointment, we discuss expectations, examine breast morphology, assess any asymmetries, and carry out a complete medical examination. A blood test, mammogram and sometimes ultrasound are prescribed. Smoking must be stopped at least one month prior to the procedure.’breast reduction surgery to limit the risk of necrosis or poor healing. I also advise you to plan your family and professional life for the post-operative period.

How to choose a breast reduction surgeon in Paris?

Rely on objective criteria: the plastic surgeon must be qualified in plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, and registered with the Conseil de l'Ordre. Choosing a genuine breast reduction specialist allows you to benefit from appropriate and secure care. Check out our specific experience in cosmetic breast reduction surgery. Don't hesitate to ask questions, request before-and-after photos, read the opinions of other patients and, above all, to listen to your feelings The relationship of trust is a fundamental pillar of the surgical process.

BREAST REDUCTION TECHNIQUES: SCARS, VERTICAL, T-ANCHOR, ASSOCIATED LIPOSUCTION

What are the main breast reduction techniques and their scars?

There is no single way to breast reduction. The technique chosen depends on several criteria: the extent of hypertrophy, the quality of the skin, the position of the areolas, and of course, the patient's expectations. A personalized assessment is essential to determine the most suitable method. Here are the most common approaches:

• Inverted-T technique : (or in marine ink) the most frequently used when the volume to be removed is significant. It leaves a vertical scar around the areola and in the fold under the breast, barely visible when standing, as the breast falls back onto it.
• Round block« technique» It limits scars to a circle around the areola. This technique does not reduce breast volume, but rather lifts the breast.

In all cases, the mammary gland is reshaped, the areolas repositioned, and the skin re-draped for a natural, proportionate result. The choice of technique is always discussed in detail during our first medical appointment.

Breast reduction and malformations: severe asymmetry, tuberous breasts, Poland syndrome

For some patients, breast reduction involves more than just volume removal. It is also necessary to correct marked asymmetry or abnormal shape, as in the case of tuberous breasts. This often involves additional procedures, such as remodeling the gland, lipofilling, reduction or re-centring of the areolas. This was the case for Leïla, 29, who had had one breast clearly more developed than the other since she was a teenager. By combining several techniques, we were able to achieve a harmonious result without the need for implants.

CAN AREOLAS ALSO BE REDUCED OR ASYMMETRIES CORRECTED?

Yes, it's not only possible, it's common. In most cases, breast reduction involves repositioning and sometimes reducing the diameter of the areolas. The aim is to achieve the most natural symmetry possible, while respecting each patient's individual anatomy.

BREAST REDUCTION: ANESTHESIA, OPERATING TIME AND HOSPITALIZATION

What does a day in hospital actually involve?

On the day of the operation, the patient is welcomed at the clinic that morning. A nurse performs the usual checks before the patient goes into the operating room. The anaesthetist then receives the patient for a final check-up before anesthesia. The procedure takes place under general anaesthetic and lasts about 1h30 depending on the complexity of the case (volume removed, correction of asymmetry, presence of tuberous breasts, etc.).

Gestures performed include :

• reduction in glandular volume,
• areola repositioning,
• skin redraping
• symmetrization of both breasts (if necessary)

At the end of the operation, a compression bandage is set up, and drains sutures can be used to evacuate excess fluid. The sutures used are absorbable.

In most cases, a outpatient hospitalization is sufficient: the patient can go home the same evening. Depending on the patient's medical history and distance from home, an overnight observation period may be scheduled.

A typical day in the life of a surgical patient

• 07:30: Welcome to the clinic
• 08:30: Preparation in room, discussion with anaesthetist
• 09:30: Move to the operating room
• 11h00: Return to recovery room
• 12:30: Snack and rest in room
• 3:30 p.m.: Exit possible with medical approval

HOW LONG DOES THE INTERVENTION LAST?

Operating time depends on the technique used and the complexity of the procedure:

• Simple cases (homogeneous volume, vertical technique): 1H30 hours on average
• Complex cases (asymmetry, gigantomastia, tuberous breasts): up to 2 hours on average

The surgeon chooses the method best suited to your morphology, skin quality and aesthetic goals set during prior consultations.

POST-OPERATIVE RECOVERY AND CONVALESCENCE

Immediate aftermath of breast reduction: pain, dressings, drains

From the very first hours after the operation, a feeling of tension in the breasts is common. The pain varies from patient to patient: some say it's bearable, while others feel real pain for the first few days, well controlled by the painkillers prescribed. It is therefore essential to be transparent: this is not a trivial operation, but it is entirely manageable with good post-operative follow-up.

A pressure dressing is applied in the recovery room. It is then replaced by a bra restraint to be worn day and night for 6 weeks. Bruising and swelling are normal and fade gradually. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing.

When can you return to work, sport and sleep on your stomach?

Resumption of work depends on the occupation. In general, one to two weeks off work are required. For physical activities, particularly those involving the arms or bouncing (running, fitness), you need to wait between 4 and 6 weeks. Sleeping on your stomach is not recommended for about a month, to avoid putting pressure on the scars.

Scar evolution: from the first weeks to the months following surgery

Scars follow a normal cycle: red and slightly thick at first, they gradually fade over 6 to 12 months. However, some patients may develop hypertrophic or keloid scars, particularly on darker skins. In these cases, a specific treatment may be proposed (silicone dressings, LEDs, creams). The aim is not to promise invisibility, but to do everything possible to promote quality healing.

Example of an inverted-T scar

RESULTS AFTER BREAST REDUCTION: SIZE ACHIEVED, BACK RELIEF, POSTURE

WHAT IS THE SIZE OBTAINED AFTER A REDUCTION OF 300G PER BREAST?

The amount of tissue removed does not always correspond directly to a cup size. On average, remove 300 g per breast is equivalent to one or two cup sizes less, but it also depends on your morphology, your chest and the bra you use. Above 1kg we talk about gigantomastia. This point is discussed in detail during the consultation, and photographs of similar cases are used to help project the future.

Breast reduction and posture: impact on the back, shoulders and neck

What few patients realize is that breast reduction can truly transform posture. Heavy breasts pull the shoulders forward, accentuate lumbar arch, and cause chronic pain. After the operation, many patients describe immediate back relief, fuller breathing, and even a gain in body confidence. The example of 43-year-old Fatou, still stooped because of her F cup, illustrates this postural impact: a few weeks after the operation, she said she felt «straightened, in every sense of the word».

Can breasts grow back after a breast reduction?

Yes, a significant weight gain or pregnancy can lead to a new breast enlargement. It is therefore important to stabilize your weight and adopt a sustainable lifestyle. But patients who take good care of their figure generally retain the benefits of the operation for many years.

AFTER BREAST REDUCTION: BREASTFEEDING, SENSITIVITY, BODY IMAGE

CAN YOU BREASTFEED AFTER A BREAST REDUCTION?

Breastfeeding is possible after breast reduction surgery, but it is not recommended. depends directly on the technique used.

When the surgeon preserves the connection between the areola and the milk ducts, lactation can be maintained. However, it is important to bear in mind that this ability may be partially or totally impaired, especially if if the mammary gland is largely severed.

It should be noted, however, that not all women are equal when it comes to breastfeeding, whether or not they have undergone breast surgery. In our consultations, we always discuss this aspect in detail, particularly with young patients or those who have not yet had children.

Areola and breast tenderness: what really changes after surgery

A temporary alteration in sensitivity is possible in only 10% of cases, particularly in the areola and lower part of the breasts. It may last from several weeks to several months. In the majority of cases, it improves gradually, but a lasting loss of sensitivity, although rare, remains possible. to minimize this risk, I use the superior or superomedial pedicle. I always warn my patients about this, as it can have an impact on everyday comfort and intimacy.

Body image: getting used to a new chest and its reflection

Many patients report an improvement in their bodily well-being after the procedure. They feel freer in their movements, more at ease in their intimacy, and less embarrassed by the gaze of others. Of course, each woman's experience is unique, but it's not uncommon to hear that the operation has «reconciled body and mind».

BREAST REDUCTION IN PARIS: RATES, REIMBURSEMENTS AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

What is the average price of a breast reduction in Paris?

Fees vary according to practitioner, establishment and associated procedures. In the private sector, the overall fee (consultation, surgery, hospitalization costs) is as follows on average between €4,000 and €6,000.

An initial visit together enables us to draw up a detailed, personalized estimate.

PRICE OF A BREAST REDUCTION WITH DR DJIAN

*Plastic surgery prices are given as an indication and are non-contractual.
The first cosmetic surgery consultation at our office in the 16th arrondissement of Paris costs 100 euros.

Reimbursed breast reduction: criteria for coverage by the Assurance Maladie

Social Security may reimburse the procedure if breast hypertrophy is deemed medically disabling. This implies :

• A volume withdrawn from’at least 300 grams per breast (this resection weight is assessed by the surgeon during the consultation)
• Documented functional discomfort (pain, physical limitations)

Part of the medical costs are covered. The remainder depends on the patient's health insurance. To find out more, see our special report on this subject: Breast reduction covered by CPAM

The difference between cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery

The reconstructive surgery is covered when its aim is to treat a pathology or functional discomfort. Aesthetic surgery, on the other hand, is never reimbursed by the social security system, as it is intended solely to enhance appearance. When in doubt, I always tell my patients which category their request falls into, and help them to put together their file if reimbursement is possible.

CONSULT A BREAST REDUCTION SPECIALIST IN PARIS

Breast reduction is much more than a cosmetic procedure: it's an effective medical response to discomfort both physical and psychological. Whether it's back pain, difficulty getting dressed or discomfort during sport, each patient has her own reasons and her own history. In Paris, I will accompany you with rigor, expertise and kindness to assess whether this breast reduction surgery is adapted to your situation.

The most important thing is to choose a customized treatment that respects your body, your expectations and your lifestyle. For further information or to consult my office, please do not hesitate to contact my secretariat on 01 88 33 61 61 or via Doctolib. We'll be happy to answer any questions you may have, and to arrange a first meeting in the best possible conditions.