There are several common breast reduction techniques. While you may have a preference for the type of breast reduction you want, the technique your surgeon suggests will depend on a number of factors.

Factors that influence the type of surgery suitable for you, and will give you the best outcome include:

• Your breast size
• The amount of tissue to be removed
• The shape of your breast
• Whether you want to breastfeed in the future
• The surgeon’s preference and expertise

Modern breast reduction surgery usually uses one of these three techniques:

Most women have a bilateral breast reduction where both breasts are reduced. Women who have one breast noticeably larger than the other, may opt to have a unilateral reduction where only one breast is reduced.

Incisions for breast reduction surgery will result in a scar around the areola and a vertical line extending down to the bottom of the breast. This may or may not be accompanied by a scar along the bottom of the breast line.

Techniques that do not involve the vertical scar (which many women worry about) will generally not bring the best result, especially for those with quite large breasts.

One question you need to ask yourself, then, what is more important to you? The shape of your breast? Or a scar that will fade over time?

When thinking about which technique is best for you, your surgeon should factor in what is most important to you, whether it is fullness up top, removing bulk, or the size you’re ultimately aiming for.

Ideally, you should consult with at least three surgeons to compare their recommendations. If you’re not happy with the method a surgeon is suggesting, get another opinion, especially if they are recommending a free nipple graft.

Take the time, and put in the effort, to find the best surgeon and surgical procedure for you.