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Breast Reduction in Switzerland

Excessive breast size can lead to back pain, discomfort during exercise and psychological distress. Breast reduction surgery helps restore a harmonious bust line and improves quality of life.

Introduction + Causes & Risk Factors

Breasts that are too large, often accompanied by sagging, can lead to physical consequences (back and shoulder pain, discomfort during exercise, bra strap marks) and psychological ones (self-consciousness, difficulty getting dressed).

Reduction
Symptoms justifying a reduction

  • tick-markChronic back, shoulder and neck pain
  • tick-markSkin irritation under the breasts
  • tick-markDifficulty participating in sporting activities
  • tick-markDeep bra strap marks
  • tick-markSelf-consciousness and difficulty finding suitable clothing
Breast reduction surgery :
Possible reimbursement

  • tick-mark Documented back pain
  • tick-mark Chronic skin irritation
  • tick-mark Significant volume to be removed
  • tick-markReferral from your GP required
  • tick-mark Please check with your insurance provide
TYPES OF BREAST REDUCTION

Available techniques

Most visual abnormalities can be corrected with treatment during the early years of life. Our ophthalmologists are trained to welcome and examine children in the best possible conditions.

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Reduction with inverted T scar

The standard technique for significant reductions. Allows for complete reshaping and repositioning of the areola. Scar well concealed beneath the breast.

Reduction with vertical scar

For moderate reductions. Minimal scarring around the areola and a vertical scar beneath the breast. Optimal aesthetic result.

Reduction with asymmetry correction

Correction of asymmetry between the two breasts can be performed at the same time. The aim: symmetrical, well-proportioned and harmonious breasts.

Breast liposuction

A minimally invasive technique is possible in certain cases (moderate volume without ptosis). Minimal scarring, faster recovery.

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SYMPTOMS AND INDICATIONS

Am I a candidate for breast reduction?

You may wish to consider a breast reduction if you suffer from:

  • Chronic pain in the shoulders, back or neck
  • Difficulty taking part in sport or physical activity
  • Deep, painful marks from bra straps
  • Chronic skin irritation under the breasts
  • Significant psychological issues related to breast size

A consultation will confirm your suitability and determine the best surgical technique.

OUR DIAGNOSIS

The pre-operative consultation

The pre-operative consultation assesses your suitability for the procedure, selects the appropriate technique and provides you with detailed information about the procedure and the recovery process.

Key steps

  • Full clinical examination of the breast
  • Discussion of your pain and functional discomfort
  • Selection of the technique based on your individual case
  • LAMal reimbursement process, if applicable
  • Full pre-operative medical assessment
OUR SURGEONS

A team of experienced plastic surgeons

Our doctors are experts in the most advanced injection techniques. Each treatment is tailored to your body type and your goals.

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Dr N. Chami

FMH-certified specialist in plastic and cosmetic surgery

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Dr B. Mercadier

FMH Specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery

TYPES OF IMPLANTS

Surgical techniques

The technique is chosen during pre-operative consultations based on the volume to be reduced, the quality of the skin and the position of the areola.

REFERENCE

Superior pedicle technique

The most commonly used technique. The upper pedicle supplies blood to the areola. Allows for significant reductions with an excellent aesthetic result.

LARGE VOLUMES

Lower pedicle technique

Ideal for very large breasts. Excellent results with preservation of sensitivity.

MINIMAL SCAR

Vertical periareolar incision

For moderate reductions. Scar limited to around the areola and running vertically under the breast. Faster recovery.

MINIMALLY INVASIVE

Breast liposuction

Suitable for moderate breast size without sagging. Minimal scarring, quick recovery, ideal for younger patients.

HOW IS THE PROCEDURE PERFORMED?

Breast reduction step by step

TEach stage is designed with your safety and comfort in mind.

01

Pre-operative consultations

Full assessment, choice of technique, LAMal reimbursement process if applicable. Mandatory cooling-off period.

clock45 min
02

Procedure

General anaesthesia. Duration: 2 to 3 hours. Discharge on the same day. Follow-up appointment the next day.

clock45 min
03

The next day

The breasts are already reduced and repositioned higher up. Pain managed with painkillers. Detailed post-operative instructions.

clock45 min
04

Final result

At 3 months, the breasts are less rounded and the tissue has softened. Final result at 6 months.

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Recovery & aftercare

What happens after the procedure?

Days 1–5

Check-up the following day. Wear of a compression bra provided. Mild discomfort managed with painkillers.

Weeks 2–6

Resume light activities. Avoid carrying heavy loads and sport. Massage the scars.

3 to 6 months

The breasts soften. Final results at 6 months. Immediate relief from back pain.

SAFETY AND SIDE EFFECTS

What you need to know

Breast reduction is a safe and well-established procedure. The vast majority of patients are very satisfied with the functional and aesthetic results.

Common side effects

Pain in the first few days, tightness, swelling. Managed with painkillers. Disappear within 2–3 weeks.

Rare risks

Bruising, infection, delayed healing. Monitoring included.

Scars

Fade over 12 to 18 months. Massage and scar cream recommended.

Relief

Immediate relief from back pain in over 90% of cases.

MONITORING & PREVENTION

Long-term follow-up

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Scar massage

Daily massage with scar cream from day 21 onwards. Scars gradually fade over 12 to 18 months.

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Self-examination

Continue to perform a monthly breast self-examination. Follow the screening recommendations for your age group.

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Mammography

Mammographic screening is still recommended in accordance with Swiss guidelines. Inform the radiologist about the procedure.

REQUEST COSTS & RESOURCES

Fees and reimbursement

State of the art laser surgery room

Breast reduction surgery may be partially covered by the LAMal in certain medically justified cases..

  • tick-mark Cosmetic reduction — not reimbursed by the LAMal
  • tick-markBreast reduction — From CHF 9,000
  • tick-mark Reduction for documented back pain — partial coverage possible
  • tick-mark Initial consultation — CHF 150 (deducted from the treatment cost)
  • tick-mark Financing available — to be discussed during the consultation

Your surgeon will guide you through the process with your insurance provider.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Your questions about breast reduction

Find answers to the questions our patients ask most often before booking an appointment

Partially possible if back pain is documented and the volume to be removed is sufficient. Your surgeon will guide you through the process.

Generally after 6 weeks for light activities. Swimming and contact sports are permitted after 3 months.

It is possible in some cases, but not guaranteed. The techniques used preserve the milk ducts as much as possible. Please inform your surgeon if you are planning to become pregnant.

They are well concealed and fade gradually. With proper aftercare, they become barely noticeable after 12 to 18 months.

The final result is assessed after 6 months. However, relief from back pain is immediate, starting the very next day.

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You deserve the best care

Book an appointment for your surgical consultation and regain the comfort and confidence you deserve.