Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that can be performed for medical reasons. After the operation and completion of rehabilitation, patients can comfortably engage in sports, wear beautiful feminine clothing, sleep on their stomachs, alleviate back and chest pain, and get rid of red marks on the skin from wearing tight lingerie. If you have a large bust, this surgery can make your life significantly easier. All our patients are satisfied with the results of the surgery immediately after waking up. Their first words are often not about how they feel but admiration for what they see – that’s how much a woman’s life with a large bust differs from the norm. Bigger doesn’t always mean better.
Brief information about the surgery
Duration of Breast Reduction Surgery: The surgery typically lasts from 3 to 4 hours and is performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, the surgeon reduces the breast tissue, removes excess fat from the breasts, and eliminates any excess internal and external tissue (around the areola and lower part of the breast if necessary). The stitches are applied in several layers, from the inner layer to the outer layer, using either sutures or medical adhesive.
Breast Reduction Techniques: There are three techniques for breast reduction: the periareolar incision, vertical incision, and anchor incision. In 85% of cases, surgeons opt for the anchor incision technique as it requires significant correction.
Recovery Period After Breast Reduction: The recovery period varies for each patient, but we can discuss the average time required for patients to recover after the operation.
Usually, during discharge, patients experience minimal pain and discomfort because pain-relieving medications administered during surgery and their stay in the clinic are still in their system. For the first 5-7 days, some discomfort may be present but can be successfully managed with pain medication. Patients can return to sports after 3 months and take a full shower after 2 weeks. Most clients resume their normal lives within 5-7 days after the procedure.
Why women consider breast reduction
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Naturally large breasts: 80% of patients who opt for breast reduction have naturally had large breasts since the age of 12-15. This is often due to genetic factors, as breast size may be similar to that of their mothers, grandmothers, or other women in the family. In such cases, surgeons recommend not delaying the operation and performing it at the age of 18-20. Breast shape is unlikely to improve on its own, but early surgical intervention can prevent posture problems, sports-related difficulties, and peer communication issues.
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Weight gain: Weight gain can lead to an increase not only in waist and hip size but also in breast size. In these cases, we recommend preparing for surgery by controlling weight and achieving maximum weight loss. This way, the breasts won’t change shape after the operation, and motivation to lose weight will increase. Weight loss can be combined with consultations with a dietitian, clinical psychologist, and the use of dietary supplements.
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Post-lactation: During pregnancy and breastfeeding, breast size increases, but they don’t always return to their normal state afterward. Stretch marks may appear on the skin, the breasts become heavier, and sagging occurs, causing physical and psychological discomfort. Breast reduction surgery becomes the only way to recover after childbirth.
Who is a suitable candidate for breast reduction surgery?
Breast reduction surgery is suitable for women who experience physical or emotional discomfort due to large breasts. This may include chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain, posture problems, skin irritation under the breasts, and difficulties in choosing clothing or participating in sports. Additionally, the procedure is suitable for those who want to improve the aesthetic appearance of their breasts to make them more proportionate to the rest of their body. It’s important to have realistic expectations of the results and good overall health to undergo the surgery.
Why choose South Korea for breast reduction surgery?
South Korea annually performs more cosmetic procedures and surgeries than any other country in the world. Local doctors are considered the most educated and competitive globally, as only 0.01% of medical school graduates can become plastic surgeons here. Korea’s medical equipment and technology are on par with the USA and Germany, placing it in the top three countries with the best-equipped clinics.
All breast reduction surgeries are carried out in accredited clinics with permission to treat foreign patients and resident anesthesiologists. All surgeons operating on our patients have 15 to 30 years of experience and specialize in breast reduction and soft tissue surgeries, performing no more than 2 surgeries per day. Fill out the questionnaire so that we can calculate the cost of treatment for you, provide a preliminary consultation, and prepare a plan for your trip to South Korea for breast reduction surgery.
How to prepare for breast reduction surgery in South Korea?
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Refrain from eating and drinking for 12 hours before the procedure. Take a shower.
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Avoid taking Aspirin, Ibuprofen (including medications like Advil or Motrin), and other medications that may increase the risk of excessive bleeding for 2 weeks before the surgery. Tylenol is only prohibited for 3 days before the operation.
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Do not smoke, including hookah and electronic cigarettes. Smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and can slow down tissue healing. If you smoke, the doctor will recommend quitting before the surgery. Some doctors refuse to perform surgery on smokers due to the high risk of complications. It is unsafe to be around smoking relatives and friends or in public places designated for smoking.
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Review your medical history. Be prepared to answer questions about current and past illnesses and any recent medications you have taken. Please do not hide this information from the surgeon and coordinators.
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Visit the surgeon for an examination. To determine treatment options, the doctor will examine the presumed area of surgery, including the position of the nipples/areolas.
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If possible, bring or send the results of mammography or breast biopsy (if not possible, we will conduct the necessary tests in Korea).
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Ask someone to drive you to the clinic or help you after the surgery. Driving a car on the day of breast reduction surgery is strictly prohibited.
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Place items next to your bed that may be needed during rest, such as lip balm, water, a chocolate bar, or a mobile phone.
Feel free to contact us by filling out the QUESTIONNAIRE or reaching out on messenger at +82-10-4214-9603 to book a consultation with our clinic coordinator or plastic surgeon.
Breast reduction surgery
Before the surgery, during the final consultation, the surgeon discusses the surgical design with the patient and addresses any questions or concerns. The patient is then guided to the operating room after a visit to the restroom. A catheter is inserted into the hand to administer pre-anesthesia medications. The surgical area is sterilized, and restraints are applied to minimize patient movement during surgery. Blood pressure is monitored, and the anesthesiologist places a mask on the patient’s face to administer anesthesia. Once the patient is asleep, the surgeon begins the procedure.
A incision is made on the breast skin using a scalpel to access the fatty tissue and mammary glands. Depending on the design, breast condition, and surgical plan, excess tissue is removed, and adjustments are made to the size, shape, and position of the nipple. Stitches or medical glue are applied layer by layer to close the incisions. After the surgery, the breast is dried, a bandage is applied for protection, and the patient is awakened and assisted to their recovery room.
What to expect after breast reduction surgery
After the surgery, a translator or medical staff will wake you up and help you move to your recovery room. Most patients don’t recall this moment due to the effects of anesthesia.
In the first 10-20 minutes after awakening, you may experience chills, which will quickly subside. A warming mattress is provided for comfort during this period. Pain is minimal on the first day, as it is managed with pain-relieving injections and medications used during surgery. However, you may feel some swelling in the breast or even the abdomen, which is normal as the body begins the healing process.
The most discomfort is caused by the bandage, which can make it difficult to breathe fully and may feel tight in certain areas. If you experience this, don’t hesitate to ask the coordinator if the bandage can be slightly loosened in your case. You will remain in the clinic for a few hours after surgery with a catheter in your hand to administer medications.
After the IV is removed and the catheter is taken out (which may occur on the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd day depending on the patient’s case), the coordinator and medical staff will check your condition. If you don’t experience symptoms like dizziness and nausea, you can prepare for discharge, including changing clothes, collecting medications, and receiving post-operative instructions.
By evening, pain may increase slightly. Place several pillows around your body to prevent chest area trauma during sleep, and take the pain medications prescribed by the surgeon, as they contain pain relievers. If you experience a dull ache or swelling in the breast area, it’s normal. Your main task at this stage is to be patient and endure for a few days.
Over the next three days, swelling may increase. Don’t be alarmed and continue following the rehabilitation guidelines. After the drainage tubes are removed (depending on the patient’s case, this may occur on the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd day), you can start taking short walks. The more you walk, the faster the swelling will go down, and your body will recover. Try to spend at least 30 minutes outside each day. By the end of the week, swelling will begin to decrease, and you will feel much better, ready to return to your normal life. Book a consultation with the clinic coordinator or plastic surgeon today!
You can book a consultation by filling out the QUESTIONNAIRE or contacting us on any messenger at +82-10-4214-9603.
Recovery process and post-breast reduction procedures
Immediately after the procedure: your breasts will be covered with gauze and a surgical support bra. You may leave the clinic within 3-5 hours after the surgery if you are feeling well.
Days 1-2: Removal of drainage tubes (if present). You may experience discomfort in your breasts during this time. Wearing the surgical support bra and compression bandages minimizes pain and protects the incisions from infection. Bruising and swelling may occur. Sleeping on your back with an elevated position is recommended.
Days 3-7: Swelling begins to decrease. Avoid strenuous physical activity, and taking a full shower is not allowed. Clinic visits for post-operative procedures (such as laser treatment for swelling and wound care) are necessary.
Days 7-14: Reduction in swelling, resolution of any bruising, and a return to work and normal life. Regular, extended walks are recommended for faster recovery. Stitch removal (if applicable).
Days 14-21: Most patients can perform daily activities without discomfort. Continue to avoid intense workouts and physical exercises. You can take showers without restrictions, but keep them under 15 minutes.
Days 21-30: Your breasts will begin to assume their natural position and shape. At this stage, avoid lifting heavy objects and strenuous exercises. Continue to sleep on your back.
Days 31-60: Most swelling subsides, and you can see 80-90% of the final results. Scars gradually fade.
Days 60-90: You can start engaging in physical exercises, sleep on your side, take baths, and apply scar-healing ointment daily.
Days 90-180: Swelling completely subsides, and your breasts assume their final shape. You can swim in the sea, sunbathe, and consume alcohol without restrictions. Scars continue to fade, and daily skin care is recommended for maximum scar reduction.
Frequently Asked Questions
We inform our patients of the final cost, which includes post-operative garments, anesthesia, room stay, medications, and even VAT (which can be refunded as tax-free). The cost of breast reduction ranges from 10,000,000 to 20,000,000 KRW, depending on the clinic and the type of correction. Accredited plastic surgeons in Korea caution that the price of the operation may also vary depending on the condition of the breast, the need for additional correction, and whether it will be the desired operation (revision or primary).
Seamless mammoplasty refers to regular mammoplasty in which a special medical adhesive is used by the surgeon to bond the external tissues instead of threads. However, it should be noted that the use of adhesive may not always be possible as its tissue fixation level is lower than that of threads. Moreover, thicker non-absorbable medical threads are always used for bonding internal tissues, making truly seamless mammoplasty essentially impossible.
Surgeons generally agree that any time of year is equally comfortable for patients. The most popular seasons for plastic surgery are spring and autumn, so we recommend booking at least 1-2 months before the operation during these times. In other seasons, 3-4 weeks is sufficient.
To promote better scar healing, we do not recommend tanning the bare skin of the breast for one year after surgery.
Surgeons cannot give a definitive answer to this question. When reducing mammary glands, there are situations where patients lose the ability to breastfeed. This depends on the chosen surgical technique and the amount of tissue that needs to be removed.
We recommend losing weight first and then having the surgery to achieve better results.
Typically, the main issue is not the amount of fat but the excess of mammary glands, stretched skin, and nipple displacement. Standard liposuction is not sufficient for this.
Yes, this is possible, but the initial conditions must be taken into account.
Unfortunately, there are currently no alternatives.
You can discuss this with the surgeon during the consultation. Some patients wish to reduce their breasts to size B or B+, while others aim for size C or C+. The surgeon will consider your preferences when planning the surgery.
Breast reduction is often combined with a breast lift, nipple reduction, or liposuction. Abdominoplasty and various facial and jawline surgeries are also possible.
Yes, if you gain a significant amount of weight or breastfeed, there is a possibility of breast size change. However, it will not return to its previous size.
Typically, surgeons do not recommend surgery before the age of 18, but in cases of clear indications and difficulties in leading a normal life, this possibility can be considered.
It is not recommended to lift heavy objects for 2 months after surgery.
- Your next step is to schedule a consultation with a coordinator and a plastic surgeon. To get a consultation, please fill out the QUESTIONNAIRE and attach your photos.
Before & After
Step 1: Fill out the QUESTIONNAIRE
First and foremost, you need to fill out a form. This will help us and the surgeons better understand your expectations and review your medical history. In the form, be sure to provide your personal information, details about any previous surgeries, and your current health condition. Unfortunately, patients with HIV infection are not eligible for plastic surgeries in Korea.
Step 2: Attach photos
Attaching photos of the areas of your body or face that you would like to have corrected is a crucial step. This allows us to make a preliminary cost estimate and direct you to a specialist who can address your concerns.
Step 3: Submit and wait for confirmation
After submitting the form and photos, your application will be reviewed, and we will contact you to confirm details and schedule a consultation.
Step 4: Prepare for the consultation
Prepare a list of questions you would like to ask the coordinator and surgeon during the consultation. We recommend bringing a phone with notes or a notepad to help you stay organized and obtain all the information you need. Additionally, you can always ask any questions you have in a personal chat created for discussing the details of your trip.