• Chronic shoulder, back, or neck pain
• Chronic rash or irritation under the breasts
• Nerve pain
• Inability to participate is some physical activities
• Indentation from bra straps
• Poor self-image

Breast reduction allows you to get the breasts size proportionate to your body by removing the excess fat, tissue, and skin. In the same procedure, other problems like breast asymmetries, saggy breasts and large areolae (darker skin which surrounds the nipple) can be addressed. It is a procedure that can dramatically improve the shape, size, and contour of your breasts.

There are three methods of breast reduction surgery, there are:

• Liposuction: suitable for small reductions. A thin tube connected to a vacuum is inserted through a small incision, next excess fats and fluids are sucked out from your breasts. 
• Vertical or “lollipop”: suitable for moderate reductions and visible sagging. An incision is made around your areola and down to the crease of your breast. Excess fats and skin are removed while breast tissue is reshaped and tightened.
• Inverted or “anchor”: suitable for large reductions and high amount of sagging or unevenness. An incision is made around your areola, down and along the crease of your breast. Excess fats and skin are removed while breast tissue is reshaped and tightened. 

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Routinely, breast tissues that are removed are also submitted for histopathology examination to exclude any occult abnormalities.

• Smaller breast size
• Improved breast shape
• Resolution of associated problems: chronic pain, skin affections, limitation in activities/sport

‍Medical history

It is important to give honest answers with regards to your medical history. This allows your surgeon to make accurate and safe decisions with regards to the procedure. Inform your surgeon about any medications, surgeries, or allergies you have/had. You must also inform your surgeon if you have diabetes, circulatory problems, thyroid problems, and other health issues if any. You must disclose if you or any of your family members have or had breast cancer. 

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Physical examination

Your surgeon will conduct a physical examination of your breasts and help to identify any problem areas that can be treated with breast reduction surgery. Your breasts will also be measured, and pictures will be taken to guide your surgeon before and during the procedure.

After this, you and your surgeon will discuss the procedure and expected results. Once the treatment plan has been decided for you, your procedure will be booked. Before the procedure, you must:

• Stop smoking: smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and hinders the healing process. It also increases your risk of tissue damage.
• Stop some medications: medications such as aspirins and anti-inflammatory drugs are blood thinners which may increase bleeding during and after the procedure.
• Schedule a mammogram: a mammogram must be conducted to screen for any potential breast problems such as breast cancer. 
• Maintain a healthy weight: weight changes can cause your breast ligaments and skin to sag. Ensure that you are at a healthy weight before your procedure so that the results are long-lasting.

• General anaesthesia is administered.
• Depending on your requirements, either liposuction is performed, or incisions are made to remove excess fats and skin.
• Breast tissue is reshaped and tightened.
• Nipples and areola are repositioned higher.
• Drainage tubes may be placed if necessary. These tubes are removed after 24-48 hours.
• Incisions are closed with sutures.