Plastic Surgery

Breast Reduction

Removing and reshaping tissue to ease weight and neck or back strain — function first, then form.

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Procedure time
Usually 2–4 hours
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia
Time in Istanbul
Typically 7 nights
Back to desk work
Often after 2 weeks
Overview

About Breast Reduction

Breast reduction removes breast tissue, fat and skin to make the breasts smaller and lighter, and lifts them into a higher position.

It is often sought because of physical symptoms, such as neck, back or shoulder pain, bra-strap grooves and skin irritation under the breasts. Many people report relief from these symptoms afterwards.

Suitability

Who it may be suitable for

  • Large breasts causing pain, posture problems or skin irritation
  • Difficulty exercising or finding clothes that fit
  • A stable weight
  • Good general health, a stable weight and no smoking, or willingness to stop

These are general points only. Whether an operation is suitable for you is decided by the treating surgeon after an in-person examination, your medical history and any tests they request.

The process

How it works

  1. Remote review

    You share photos and your medical history. The surgeon gives a first opinion on whether the operation is suitable and what it could realistically achieve.

  2. Consultation in Istanbul

    The surgeon examines you in person, confirms the plan, explains the risks and arranges pre-operative tests before you give consent.

  3. Surgery

    Under general anaesthesia, excess tissue and skin are removed and the breast is reshaped, usually leaving an anchor-shaped scar.

  4. Check before you fly

    The surgeon reviews healing before you travel home, and you receive written aftercare instructions and remote follow-up.

Aftercare

What to expect and aftercare

  1. First days

    Tightness, swelling and soreness are common. You wear a supportive surgical bra and avoid lifting your arms above shoulder height.

  2. Weeks 1–2

    Stitches are checked or removed. Many people return to desk work, avoiding lifting and upper-body exercise.

  3. Weeks 4–6

    Exercise is gradually reintroduced with the surgeon’s approval. You continue to wear a supportive bra.

  4. Months 3–12

    The breasts settle into their final shape and scars mature. Results are usually assessed after several months.

Timelines vary between people. Always follow the aftercare instructions from your treating clinic.

Good to know

Risks and considerations

  • Breastfeeding may be reduced or not possible after a reduction.
  • Nipple sensation can change, and rarely part of the nipple tissue may not heal well.
  • All surgery carries risks, including bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, blood clots and reactions to anaesthesia.
  • Scars are permanent. Surgeons place them where they are easiest to hide, but how they mature varies from person to person.
  • Smoking and nicotine products significantly increase the risk of wound-healing problems. Most surgeons ask you to stop for several weeks before and after surgery.
  • Results take months to settle and cannot be guaranteed. Some people need a revision procedure.
FAQ

Common questions

Will a reduction relieve my back pain?

Many people report improvement, but back pain has many causes. The surgeon will discuss whether your symptoms are likely related to breast size.

How small can my breasts be made?

The surgeon advises on a size that keeps the breasts healthy and proportionate to your body.

How long should I stay in Istanbul after surgery?

It depends on the operation. Many are planned around one to two weeks so the surgeon can check you and remove stitches or drains before you fly. Flying soon after surgery raises the risk of blood clots, so your surgeon confirms when it is safe to travel.

How is the cost decided?

The price depends on the operation the surgeon recommends after examining you, the hospital stay and any combined procedures. You receive a written, itemised quote before anything is booked, with no obligation to proceed.

Related treatments
Next step

Talk to a coordinator about Breast Reduction

Share your details and a coordinator will reply with clear next steps. There is no obligation to proceed.

This page is general information, not medical advice; a treating clinician confirms your plan after assessment. ELAVIA Global coordinates care; clinical evaluation and treatment are delivered by independent, licensed partner facilities and their specialists.