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

UNDERSTANDING BREAST ENLARGEMENT AND BREAST REDUCTION

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.

INDICATIONS AND PATIENT PROFILES

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 CHANGE

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.

PREPARATION FOR SURGERY

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 AN ESTHETIC 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.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUES FOR BREAST REDUCTION

WHAT DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES ARE USED?

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 FOR SEVERE BREAST ASYMMETRY OR TUBEROUS BREASTS

For some patients, breast reduction involves more than just volume removal. It is also necessary to correct marked asymmetry or an 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.

THE OPERATION

HOW DOES THE PROCEDURE WORK IN PRACTICE?

On the day of the operation, the patient is welcomed at the clinic in the morning. A nurse carries out the usual checks before the patient goes into the operating room. The anaesthetist then receives the patient for a final check before general anesthesia. The procedure takes place under general anaesthetic and lasts around 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 applied, and drains can be inserted to evacuate excess fluid. The sutures used are absorbable.

In most cases, outpatient hospitalization is sufficient: the patient can return home the same evening. However, an overnight observation period may be required, depending on the patient's medical history and distance from home.

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

WHAT ARE THE IMMEDIATE POST-OPERATIVE CONSEQUENCES?

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 TO RESUME WORK, SPORT OR 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.

HOW DO SCARS EVOLVE?

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

POST-OPERATIVE RESULTS AND BENEFITS

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, removing 300 g per breast is equivalent to one or two cup sizes less, but this also depends on morphology, the thorax and the bra used. Above 1kg, we speak of 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: LASTING BENEFITS FOR THE SPINE

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?

Yes, significant weight gain or pregnancy can lead to further 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.

FUNCTIONS AND SENSATIONS AFTER SURGERY

CAN YOU BREASTFEED AFTER A BREAST REDUCTION?

Breastfeeding is possible after breast reduction surgery, but this 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 be aware that this ability may be partially or totally impaired, especially 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.

WHAT ABOUT AREOLA AND BREAST SENSITIVITY?

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.

DOES BREAST REDUCTION CHANGE SEXUALITY?

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».

COVERAGE, RATES AND REIMBURSEMENTS

HOW MUCH DOES BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY COST IN PARIS?

Fees vary according to practitioner, establishment and associated procedures. In the private sector, the overall fee (consultation, surgery, hospitalization costs) averages between €4,000 and €6,000. Personally, my rates start at €4500. An initial visit together will enable us to draw up a personalized quote.

IN WHAT CASES IS HEALTH INSURANCE REIMBURSED?

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

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COSMETIC SURGERY AND RECONSTRUCTIVE 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.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT WITH A PLASTIC SURGERY SPECIALIST FOR A CUSTOMIZED BREAST REDUCTION

Breast reduction is much more than a cosmetic procedure: it's an effective answer medical treatment for real 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 rigour, 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 all information or for visit don't hesitate to contact contact with my secretariat at 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.