Breast reduction

Duration: 1 – 2 hours

Anesthesia: General anesthesia

Treatment: outpatient

Aftercare: Wear a support bra for approximately 6 weeks

Able to return to work: after approximately 1-2 weeks (depending on the type of work)

Arrange a consultation

Breast reduction surgery involves removing excess breast tissue and shaping the breasts harmoniously in proportion to the body. This sophisticated procedure is performed by experienced plastic surgeons and can offer not only aesthetic but also health benefits. Many patients experience noticeable relief from conditions such as back and neck pain, spinal problems, or skin irritations.

Lighter, well-shaped breasts for a better quality of life

Consultation

During a personal consultation, we will discuss your individual wishes, explain the various techniques and possible scarring patterns, and show you realistic examples of breast reduction results. Schedule your appointment online or by calling +41 44 397 38 60.

Preparation

Blood-thinning medications should be discontinued before surgery. If you smoke, it is recommended that you reduce or stop smoking a few weeks before the procedure to support wound healing.

Procedure of the operation

Breast reduction surgery is performed under a brief general anesthetic. Depending on the initial situation and the desired result, we remove excess breast tissue and reshape the breast. The nipple is positioned harmoniously, while excess skin is tightened. The areola is usually slightly reduced in size. If necessary, small tubes (drains) are inserted to drain the wound fluid. Finally, a supportive bra is applied.

Aftercare

Immediately after surgery, a special support bra provides support and aids healing. For the first few days, the breasts often feel tight. The stitches dissolve on their own. Initially, the scars are firm and slightly red, but fade over time. Light activities are possible after just a few days. Swelling may persist for up to 12 weeks, and the breasts are often sensitive to touch during this phase. The final shape and size are achieved after about three months, and the scars fade significantly after about six months.

Risks

Acute complications are extremely rare. However, as with any surgical procedure, certain risks exist, including bleeding, infection, or impaired wound healing. Some patients experience temporary nipple sensitivity or numbness, which usually resolves over time but may persist in rare cases. Breastfeeding is usually maintained but may occasionally be impaired. We will discuss the exact risks in detail during the consultation.

Costs

We would be happy to discuss the costs during a personal consultation. In cases of severe symptoms, we can request that your health insurance provider cover the cost of the surgery. They will review your application through their medical advisor. If approved, the costs may be covered.

Why choose us for your breast reduction? Expertise and modern technology

Prof. Dr. med. Hisham Fansa, Head of Plastic Surgery Zurich, provides information about breast reduction and breast lift procedures. Learn more in this video.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How much tissue is removed during a breast reduction?

This depends on your individual situation. Typically, several hundred grams of tissue are removed per breast to achieve a harmonious shape.

Are there visible scars after breast reduction?

Is breast reduction covered by health insurance?

How long does it take to heal after a breast reduction?

Breast reduction or breast lift – what is the difference?

Do you have any questions?
Contact us

Get to know our doctors

Prof. Dr. med. Hisham Fansa
Chief Physician and Head of Plastic Surgery Zurich, Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery
Dr. med. Sora Linder
Head of Plastic Surgery in Zurich, Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery
Dr. med. (RO) Marlon Petrus
Senior Physician Plastic Surgery Zurich, Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery

What our customers say about us

Read all Google reviews

AS

I can sum up my stay at Zollikerberg Hospital with the following words: the highest level of expertise, humanity, and compassionate care. I had a successful operation and received competent advice, care, and excellent support from the first minute until my discharge. A big thank you also goes to the hotel and kitchen team for the delicious and varied meals; I thoroughly enjoyed everything. Thank you so much!

CN

I had a very good experience. The doctors and nurses were very nice. The surgery went smoothly and was almost painless. I'm very satisfied with the final result. I would have the procedure at Zollikerberg Hospital anytime.

KRM

Honest and empathetic advice from Professor Fansa, and always a friendly welcome from Mr. Kummer in the waiting room: I was extremely satisfied with my treatment, from start to finish. Zollikerberg Hospital is very dear to me anyway; my children were born there 😉 and I always received excellent and warm care. 100% recommended!

LB

The initial consultation calmed my fears and concerns. Excellent advice and, above all, excellent explanations! A fantastic team. After the surgery, everything that had been done was explained to me again. Follow-up examinations and discussions went well. I'm very pleased to have had my procedure with Dr. Fansa; it has given me renewed courage and vitality. I thank the entire team.

LR

With Dr. Linder, you always feel very well looked after and taken seriously. She's extremely competent, both professionally and personally. I would recommend her at any time!

T.

Everyone was very nice and accommodating. Dr. Fansa also explained everything very well and in simple terms. And everything worked out exactly as expected. I highly recommend it, and I would go back anytime.

T.C.

Excellent from start to finish. The hospital is very well organized, there are hardly any waiting times, and Prof. Fansa and Dr. Linder are excellent surgeons. I am very satisfied with the results!

SZ

Professionalism combined with humanity. You feel well advised and treated.