Before-and-after or only-after treatment photographs relating to aesthetic procedures cannot be displayed on public websites or social media platforms under Singapore’s healthcare advertising regulations. However, clinical photographs may be shown to patients during a private, one-on-one consultation at the clinic premises, so that the surgeon can provide the necessary clinical context and explain possible outcomes specific to your anatomy.

Breast reduction is performed to address physical discomfort associated with macromastia (excessively large breasts). Factual medical indications documented in clinical literature include chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain; skin irritation or rashes (intertrigo) in the sub-mammary fold; and functional limitations in physical activity. Suitability is determined through a clinical assessment.

The ability to breastfeed following surgery is highly dependent on the surgical technique used, specifically whether the column of breast tissue connecting the nipple-areola complex to the chest wall is preserved. Clinical studies indicate outcomes vary significantly between techniques. A 2023 systematic review found an overall breastfeeding success rate of approximately 62% following reduction mammoplasty, with patients at a statistically higher odds of unsuccessful breastfeeding compared to those who have not undergone the procedure. Patients who plan to breastfeed in the future should discuss this clearly during a private consultation so that the most appropriate technique can be considered.

Recovery timelines vary by individual and must not be interpreted as a guaranteed fixed period. Generally, patients return to light daily activities within one to two weeks. Low-impact activities such as walking may be gradually reintroduced after two to three weeks. Strenuous or vigorous exercise, particularly involving the upper body, is typically avoided for six to eight weeks. Surgical results mature progressively over several months as tissues settle and stabilise.

All surgical reductions result in permanent scars, the pattern of which depends on the technique selected (for example, Vertical or Inverted-T). While scars are permanent, they typically mature and fade from red to a fine, pale line over a period of 12 to 24 months, and minor improvements may continue beyond this period. Dr Marco will discuss the expected scar pattern for your specific anatomy during consultation.

Insurance and Medisave coverage depend on whether the procedure is assessed as a medical necessity (to treat documented physical symptoms) rather than a cosmetic preference. Patients should consult their insurance providers regarding their specific policy terms for symptomatic macromastia. Further information on Medisave eligibility for medically necessary surgical procedures is available from Singapore’s Central Provident Fund Board.

Suitability is determined through a clinical assessment by a Specialist Plastic Surgeon. The evaluation considers overall health, skin elasticity, the severity of physical symptoms, and anatomical factors. A private consultation with Dr Marco Faria Correa is required before any surgical recommendation is made.

The choice of incision is a clinical decision based on the amount of tissue to be removed and the degree of breast ptosis (sagging). The Vertical technique involves an incision around the areola and a vertical line down to the breast crease. The Inverted-T technique adds a horizontal incision along the breast crease and is typically used for larger volume reductions. Dr Marco will determine the appropriate technique during your private assessment based on your anatomical requirements.

In most cases of reduction mammoplasty, a breast lift is integrated into the procedure to reposition the nipple-areola complex and tighten the skin envelope for a more proportionate result. This is a standard surgical approach to address both volume and skin laxity simultaneously. Whether a combined procedure is appropriate is confirmed during a clinical assessment.

While weight loss or physical therapy may alleviate some symptoms of musculoskeletal strain, they cannot surgically remove excess glandular tissue or skin. For patients with significant macromastia, reduction mammoplasty is the primary clinical option to achieve a permanent reduction in breast volume and weight. Non-surgical approaches may be discussed during consultation as part of an informed decision-making process.

Reduction mammoplasty is typically performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited surgical facility to prioritise patient safety and comfort throughout the procedure, which generally takes two to four hours for routine cases, though more complex reductions may take longer. The anaesthetic plan is determined by the attending anaesthetist based on a pre-operative medical assessment. All anaesthesia is administered and monitored by a qualified anaesthesia team.

Recovery timelines are subject to individual healing processes and should not be interpreted as a guaranteed fixed period. Clinical evidence indicates that most patients return to light, sedentary desk work within 10 to 14 days. Those in physically demanding roles may require a longer rest period, which will be discussed and documented during post-operative reviews with Dr Marco.