Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammaplasty)

Breast reduction surgery at Estela removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to achieve a smaller, lighter, and better-proportioned breast, while simultaneously repositioning the nipple-areola complex to a natural height. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia at St. Anna Faculty Hospital and takes two to three hours. As well as the aesthetic improvement, many patients experience significant relief from neck, back, and shoulder pain associated with large breasts, along with an improved ability to exercise and wear fitted clothing. A minimum one-night hospital stay is included. Sutures and drains are managed at follow-up appointments, with return to work typically at two weeks.

Reduction mammaplasty at Estela is designed to bring breast size into harmony with body proportions while simultaneously correcting ptosis (sag) and elevating the nipple-areola complex. The procedure removes excess glandular tissue, adipose tissue, and skin; the remaining tissue is reshaped and secured in a lifted position before the skin envelope is closed. Areola size is reduced and the nipple repositioned to a height appropriate to the new breast volume — a combined correction that no liposuction or skin-only procedure can replicate. MUDr. Novák and MUDr. Polovko perform breast reductions at St. Anna Faculty Hospital under general anaesthesia. The operative technique uses one of several standard incision patterns selected to suit the degree of reduction and existing anatomy: the inverted-T (anchor) pattern is used for large reductions, the vertical scar (lollipop) pattern for moderate reductions in patients with good skin quality. Incisions are positioned so that final scars fall along the breast fold and around the areola, where they fade significantly over 12 to 18 months. The procedure takes two to three hours. A drain is placed under each breast to evacuate post-operative fluid and removed at the first follow-up appointment. An elastic sports bra or compression garment is worn for six to eight weeks to support the healing breast and optimise shape. Swelling and bruising are most pronounced in the first two weeks and resolve progressively. Return to desk work is typically at two weeks; gym activity and heavier lifting at four weeks. Sleeping on the stomach is avoided for six weeks; complete tissue maturation takes up to six months. Breast reduction is particularly appropriate for women experiencing physical symptoms attributable to breast weight — chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain, shoulder grooving from bra straps, skin irritation under the breast fold, and difficulty with exercise. The procedure can be performed at any age above 18 but is not recommended for women who are planning to breastfeed in the near future, as it may affect milk duct anatomy. Pre-operative blood tests and cardiac evaluation are required for general anaesthesia and are arranged by the clinic.