Date of publication: May 5, 2026 | Author: Dr. García Ceballos FCCP, Plastic Surgeon – Mallorca Medical Group

Breast reduction, also called reduction mammoplasty, is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures in Mallorca. plastic surgery in Mallorca with the greatest impact on the quality of life of patients. Beyond the aesthetic component, this intervention often responds to objective medical indications: chronic neck and back pain, postural problems, recurrent skin irritation under the breast fold and functional limitations in daily physical activity. This article reviews the main aspects of breast reduction, from clinical indications to postoperative recovery, with the aim of providing rigorous, evidence-based medical information.

When is breast reduction indicated?

The medical evaluation makes it possible to determine whether a patient is a candidate for this procedure. The most frequent indications include:

• Symptomatic macromastia: large volume breasts that generate muscle pain, cervical contractures or chronic back pain not resolved with conservative treatment.
• Breast hypertrophy and associated ptosis: when excessive weight of breast tissue causes marked drooping of the gland.
• Dermatological problems: intertrigo, eczema or recurrent mycosis in the inframammary fold secondary to pressure and humidity.
• Functional limitation: difficulty in practicing sports, finding suitable clothing or carrying out normal daily activities.
• Significant breast asymmetry with relevant functional or aesthetic repercussions.

The preoperative assessment includes a detailed physical examination, a complete medical history and, in patients over 35 years of age or with a family history, a breast imaging study prior to surgery.

Surgical techniques in breast reduction

There is no single breast reduction technique; the choice depends on the volume to be removed, the degree of ptosis, and each patient’s anatomical characteristics. Dr. García Ceballos, FCCP, with more than 25 years of clinical practice and specialized training in plastic surgery at the Université Libre de Bruxelles (UZ VUB Brussels), tailors the surgical approach to the specifics of each case.

The most commonly used techniques at present are:

Inverted T-scar technique (Wise pattern)

Indicated in large volume breast hypertrophy. It generates a periareolar, vertical and horizontal inframammary scar. Allows resection of large volumes of tissue with repositioning of the nipple-areola complex and good control of the final breast shape.

Vertical scar technique (superior or superomedial pedicle)

Preferred in hypertrophies of moderate volume and when it is desired to minimize the length of the scar. The resulting scar is periareolar and vertical, avoiding horizontal inframammary scar. Requires precise preoperative planning.

Periareolar technique (Benelli or Góes)

Reserved for cases of mild to moderate ptosis with limited need for volume reduction. The scar is confined to the areolar border, although it can produce a flattening of the mammary pole if not applied correctly.

In all cases, the objective is to obtain a breast with a volume proportionate to the patient’s body frame, with a natural position of the nipple-areola complex and a harmonious profile, prioritizing patient safety and realistic expectations in accordance with the patient’s anatomy.

Breast reduction and lactation

One of the most frequent concerns of patients of reproductive age is the possible impairment of breast-feeding after surgery. The ability to breastfeed may be compromised depending on the pedicle used and the volume of glandular tissue resected. In patients who desire or anticipate future pregnancies, this aspect is discussed in depth during the preoperative assessment. In general, superior or superomedial pedicle techniques preserve ductal continuity to a greater extent.

Preoperative preparation

Before the intervention, the medical team of Mallorca Medical Group establishes a personalized surgical plan that includes:

• Laboratory tests and cardiorespiratory evaluation if applicable.
• Breast imaging study (mammography and/or ultrasound) according to clinical indication and age.
• Precise instructions on medication to be discontinued (anticoagulants, anti-inflammatory drugs, oral contraceptives in selected cases).
• Pre-surgical anesthetic evaluation.
• Hygiene and skin preparation guidelines.

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and usually lasts between two and four hours, depending on the volume to be resected and the complexity of the case.

Recovery after breast reduction

The postoperative course of reduction mammoplasty follows a predictable pattern in most patients. The following is a description of the usual progression in stages:

First 48-72 hours

Presence of ecchymosis and breast edema, usually well tolerated with prescribed analgesia. Patients wear a post-surgical bra without underwire from the first day. The drain, when placed, is usually removed in the first 24-48 hours.

First week

Progressive reduction of edema. Non-resorbable stitches are removed in consultation. Relative rest is maintained, avoiding physical exertion and elevation of the arms above the shoulders.

Weeks 2 to 6

Progressive reincorporation to non-physical work activity. The use of the post-surgical bra is maintained for 4-6 weeks. The scar care protocol (moisturizing, sun protection) is started to promote skin maturation.

Months 3 to 12

Maturation of the scars and settling of the definitive result. Residual edema gradually resolves. The final results are evaluated from the sixth postoperative month.

The variable results according to the patient’s anatomy and evolution make individualized evaluation at each follow-up visit essential to optimize the final result.

Scars: how do they evolve?

Scars are inherent to any breast reduction technique. Their evolution depends on genetic factors, skin type, smoking and compliance with postoperative instructions. Under favorable conditions, scars go through an inflammatory phase (first weeks), a proliferative phase (months 1 to 6) and a remodeling phase (months 6 to 18), when they reach their most discreet appearance.

Mallorca Medical Group’s scar care protocol includes the use of silicone sheets, specific creams and strict sun protection during the first postoperative year.

Natural and proportionate results: the Mallorca Medical Group approach

Mallorca Medical Group analyzes each case individually, with the aim of obtaining natural and proportionate results to the patient’s body frame. The clinical philosophy of Dr. García Ceballos FCCP, trained as a Fellow of the Collegium Chirurgicum Plasticum (FCCP) and with reference training at UZ VUB Brussels, prioritizes patient safety, functionality and aesthetic harmony over any passing trend.

Breast reduction in Mallorca, when correctly indicated and executed, produces an aesthetic improvement according to the characteristics of each case, while significantly alleviating the physical symptoms associated with macromastia. However, the variable results according to the anatomy and the individual evolution of each patient make an in-person medical evaluation essential.

Why choose a board-certified plastic surgeon?

Breast reduction is an intervention that requires specialized training, proven surgical experience and thorough preoperative planning. When considering this option, it is essential to verify that the chosen professional has an official degree in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, accreditation in the corresponding Medical College and surgical activity in accredited hospitals.

Dr. García Ceballos FCCP is collegiate No. 070707779 (Organización Médica Colegial), Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of England (GMC No. 4073525) and active member of the SECPRE (Spanish Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery) and the SBCPRE (Balearic Society). He performs his surgical activity at Hospital Quirónsalud Palmaplanas and Hospital Quirónsalud Son Verí, in Palma de Mallorca.

Plastic Surgery in Mallorca: criteria to choose clinic and surgeon

When considering options for a breast reduction in Mallorca, it is advisable to consider the following aspects:

• Official qualification and verifiable registration of the surgeon.
• Surgical activity in an accredited hospital (not only in a private clinic without a hospital operating room).
• Proven experience in the specific procedure requested.
• Transparency in the assessment: the surgeon must clearly explain indications, technique, risks and alternatives.
• Structured postoperative follow-up available.

Request your personalized assessment

If you are considering a breast reduction in Mallorca or would like more information about this procedure, the medical team at Mallorca Medical Group is available to answer your questions and guide you on whether this intervention is right for you. Book your assessment at mallorcamedicalgroup.com or contact the clinic at 971 254 686.

Each case is individual. The information contained in this article is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for an in-person medical evaluation. The results may vary depending on the anatomy and evolution of each patient.

Dr. García Ceballos, FCCP
MD · FCCP · MRCS (England)
Specialist in Plastic, Aesthetic, and Reconstructive Surgery
Director and Founder of Mallorca Medical Group
Camí Vileta 46C, 07011 Palma de Mallorca
Tel. 971 254 686 | mallorcamedicalgroup.com