Mammoplasty is primarily the term used for breast reduction surgery, although it can be used for any alteration (larger or smaller) of the breast.  Unlike breast augmentation, reduction surgery is often done for medical reasons.  The surgery makes overly large breasts more proportionate to a women’s body and helps to alleviate back, neck and shoulder pain, avoid skeletal deformities and in some cases, can improve breathing.

The cost range is $5,000-$10,000 and is sometimes even performed on a single breast. The surgery can take from 90 minutes to 4 hours and is done under general anesthesia. Excess fat, glandular tissue and skin are removed and the nipple repositioned.  Afterward, the breasts are wrapped in gauze, there may be drainage tubes for a couple of days, and the patient will wear a support bra — even while sleeping — for 4-6 weeks until the swelling and bruising subside, much the same as if the patient had breast enhancement. Discomfort will last for about a week, and there may be random shooting pains or a recurrence of pain if the breasts swell during menstruation. Scars will fade over several months. Also be aware that changes in sensation are common — the breast and/or nipple can become more or less sensitive. This is more likely if the position of the nipples has been moved during surgery. Numbness can be permanent. Depending on the surgery, you may not be able to breast feed after the operation.

• This British website provides an easy to read fact sheet.
• Mayo Clinic features a woman who opted for the surgery and had terrific results.