Breast hypertrophy

Breast hypertrophy is characterized by excessive development of breast tissue in women. The breasts become larger than normal and disproportionate relative to the body silhouette.

Four stages of breast hypertrophy are distinguished:

• Stage I: Breasts are slightly larger than normal but retain their natural shape. The nipple is located above the inframammary fold.
• Stage II: Breasts are noticeably larger, and the nipple is at or slightly below the inframammary fold.
• Stage III: Breasts are significantly hypertrophied, with the nipple positioned well below the inframammary fold.
• Stage IV: Breasts are excessively large, and the nipple is positioned considerably lower than the inframammary fold.

Breast hypertrophy is noted from a cup size E.

Depending on the degree of advancement, breast hypertrophy is often associated with breast ptosis. Under the weight and gravity of the breasts, they sag, causing skin laxity that does not improve with age. Nipples also point downward.

While breast hypertrophy is typically a concern for women, some men may also experience enlarged breast glands and tissue, a condition known as gynecomastia.

Breast hypertrophy can be psychologically and physically challenging. Surgical intervention is appropriate for achieving a more proportionate breast size.

Breast hypertrophy often causes neck, shoulder, and back pain due to the excessive weight of the breasts, affecting posture and daily activities. Women may find their activities limited and struggle to find properly fitting clothing, which can affect their self-confidence. Persistent friction beneath the breasts can lead to skin irritations and rashes.

Breast reduction surgery is the procedure indicated for breast hypertrophy. It involves precise restructuring of glandular, fatty, and skin tissues to create a breast shape more proportional to the patient’s body. Breast reduction removes excess tissue and reshapes the breasts.

Breast reduction is performed under general anesthesia, typically in an outpatient setting. Depending on the stage of breast hypertrophy and significant skin laxity, breast reduction may be combined with a breast lift to correct ptosis, tighten the skin, and restore a more contoured appearance.

Scarring is minimized as much as possible:

• Periareolar Incision: Around the edge of the areola, blending into the natural transition between the areola skin and the rest of the breast.
• T-Incision: Follows the contour of the areola and extends vertically to the inframammary fold.
• Anchor Incision: Follows the contour of the areola, descends vertically to the inframammary fold, and then follows the natural curve of the fold. It is often used for severe breast hypertrophy cases.

Postoperative pain is moderate and managed with analgesics. As with all breast surgeries, wearing a supportive bra is crucial for optimal recovery. Over the weeks, swelling decreases, the breasts stabilize, and scars begin to fade. Sutures will dissolve on their own.

Breast reduction reduces the size and shape of the breasts, alleviates back, neck, and shoulder pain, resolves skin irritations under the breasts, and improves posture. Quality of life is significantly enhanced.

In cases of breast hypertrophy, breast reduction may be covered by health insurance under certain conditions. To qualify for reimbursement by social security, specific criteria must be met, such as removing 300 grams from each breast.