What are different breast reduction procedure types and which is right for me?

• 16 February 2024
• Mr A. Siddiqui

Last updated on July 10, 2024

A breast reduction surgery can be a life-changing procedure for women dealing with the pain and discomfort of extremely large breasts. However, just as there are many different types of breast shapes and sizes, there are various types of breast reduction techniques.

The experts at Breast & Body Clinic, UK have put together this guide to different breast reduction procedure types to show you the available options and help you choose which is the right one for you.

Our expert plastic surgeons present different types of techniques to reduce the size of your bust to help guide your decision-making process.

Why breast reduction surgery?

Breast reduction plastic surgery, or reduction mammoplasty, brings comfort and balance to women who have overly large breasts. It involves the surgical removal of excess breast tissue and skin, reshaping and lifting the breasts to achieve a size and contour that is more proportionate to the body. This surgery not only enhances physical appearance but also aims to:

• Alleviate physical discomfort: Significantly reduces back, neck, and shoulder pain caused by the weight of large breasts. It can also stop bra straps from cutting into shoulders.
• Improve posture: Helps to correct posture problems that result from heavy breasts.
• Enhance mobility and lifestyle: Increases the ability to participate in physical activities, leading to a healthier lifestyle.
• Reduce skin irritation: Decreases the skin irritation and infections that occur under the breast crease due to friction, sweat and excess breast skin.
• Boost self-esteem and confidence: Many women experience a boost in self-confidence and body image after surgery, feeling more comfortable in their skin.

The different breast reduction procedure types

Three different breast reduction surgery techniques can be used to remove excess breast tissue and achieve your desired outcome of smaller, perkier breasts.

There are three main breast reduction surgery techniques that plastic surgeons use to reduce noticeable sagging and remove excess tissue.

Traditional breast reduction (anchor incision)

This is the most common type of breast reduction surgery and is also known as the “inverted T” method. It involves making an anchor-shaped incision that encircles the areola, extends downward, and follows the natural curve of the crease beneath the breast. This breast reduction technique allows for the removal of a significant amount of underlying breast tissue and skin, making it ideal for women with very large breasts.

Vertical breast reduction (lollipop incision)

This breast reduction technique is less invasive than the traditional method and involves incisions that resemble a lollipop – around the areola and down to the breast crease. A lollipop breast reduction is best suited for women who only need a small to moderate amount of excess tissue removed. A vertical breast reduction surgery offers a quicker recovery time with less scarring.

Scarless breast reduction

Unlike the traditional and vertical methods, scarless breast reduction procedures primarily use liposuction to remove excess fat from the breasts. This technique is best suited for minor reductions in women whose large breast size is primarily due to excess fatty tissue rather than glandular tissue. As it involves small incisions, usually under the armpit or around the edge of the areola, the scarring is minimal. However, it’s important to note that this method may not address issues of sagging or excess skin. In this case, it may be combined with a breast lift to help achieve your goal breast shape and size.

Your surgeon will work with you to create the best surgical plan to alleviate your emotional or physical symptoms (such as shoulder grooves, back pain or feeling self-conscious) and help you find body confidence again.

A comparative overview of breast reductions

Here’s a quick snapshot of the different types of breast reduction procedures and who they are best suited for.

Traditional or anchor pattern reduction:

• Best suited for significant breast volume and size reduction.
• This breast reduction involves skin and tissue removal from the top, sides and bottoms of the breasts.
• Involves a breast lift to reposition remaining tissue for optimal breast shape and size.
• Ideal for women with considerable sagging and larger breasts causing pain, discomfort and physical limitations.

Vertical scar or lollipop method:

• Best suited for moderately large breasts.
• Offers moderate lifting and reshaping of the breasts.
• Less extensive scarring compared to traditional surgery.
• Perfect for women requiring a moderate reduction and with moderate sagging.

Scarless reduction (liposuction):

• Minimal reduction in breast size with minimal scarring.
• Suitable for women whose breast size is mostly due to excess fatty tissue.
• Ideal for those desiring a subtle reduction and possessing good skin elasticity.
• A minimally invasive procedure.

Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who is experienced in performing breast reduction surgeries is essential to determine the most suitable technique for you. They can help guide you towards the best choice for your body type and aesthetic goals.

How to choose the right breast reduction surgery for you

There are many key factors you need to consider when deciding if this aesthetic plastic surgery is right for you:

• Size reduction goals: Decide how much reduction you are aiming for.
• Current breast size: Consider the size and composition of your breasts.
• Overall health: Your general health can influence the type of surgery suitable for you.
• Lifestyle considerations: Think about how your daily activities might influence your choice of surgery.
• Skin elasticity: The nature of your skin can affect surgical outcomes.
• Expected results: Have realistic expectations about what each surgery can achieve.
• Recovery timeframe: Different surgical techniques require different recovery times.

Remember, the decision should be based on a combination of personal goals and medical advice from your surgeon.

Making an informed decision on breast reduction procedure types

Choosing the right plastic surgery technique for your breast reduction can be difficult. However, this guide, coupled with a consultation with a plastic surgeon can help you make the best decision for your breast surgery.

For more information, or to book a consultation, contact the Breast and Body Clinic. We are here to help you with any cosmetic surgery concerns and to guide you through every step of your journey to smaller, perkier breasts.

FAQs

What is the new technique for breast reduction?

The new technique for breast reduction often referred to as “liposuction-only breast reduction,” uses liposuction to remove excess fat from the breasts. This method is less invasive, involves smaller incisions, and typically results in less scarring compared to traditional breast reduction surgeries.

What is the least invasive breast reduction?

The least invasive breast reduction technique is liposuction. This method uses lipo to remove excess fat from the breasts and is best suited for minor reductions with minimal scarring. It’s ideal for patients whose large breast size is mainly due to excess fatty tissue.