- Anaesthesia
- General
- Operating time
- Typically 2–4 hours
- Hospital stay
- Commonly 1–2 nights
- Time in Thailand
- Commonly 10–14 days
- Support bra
- Worn for several weeks
- Heavy lifting
- Avoided for about 6 weeks
What breast reduction does
Breast reduction removes tissue and skin to reduce size and weight, reshapes the breast and moves the nipple and areola higher. It can relieve symptoms such as neck, back and shoulder pain, bra-strap grooves and skin irritation under the breast, and make exercise more comfortable.
Techniques
- Vertical ("lollipop") reduction: scars around the areola and down to the fold, for moderate reductions.
- Anchor (inverted-T) reduction: adds a scar along the fold, for larger reductions.
- Liposuction-only reduction: for suitable breasts made up mostly of fat, with minimal scarring but limited lift.
- Free nipple graft: sometimes used for very large reductions.
Your surgeon explains which technique suits your breast size and shape.
Recovery timeline
- First days: soreness and swelling; drains may be used; a supportive bra is worn day and night.
- 1–2 weeks: wound checks; most people fly home after about 10–14 days.
- About 2 weeks: return to desk work for many.
- 6 weeks: exercise and lifting resume as advised.
- Months: shape settles and scars fade over 12–18 months.
Risks
Possible complications include bleeding, infection, wound healing problems where scars meet, changes or loss of nipple sensation, asymmetry, visible scarring, and rarely loss of part of the nipple or areola. Breastfeeding may not be possible afterwards. Breasts can change again with weight change, pregnancy or ageing.
Travelling to Thailand
Plan about 10–14 days. Pack front-opening tops, avoid lifting heavy bags and wear your support bra on the flight.
What affects the cost
Technique, amount of tissue removed, anaesthesia, hospital stay and garments affect the price. See our cost guide.
Choosing a surgeon
Confirm the surgeon's licence with the Medical Council of Thailand and relevant specialist training, ask how many breast reduction procedures they perform, and how complications are handled after you return home. See our checklist.
Surgeons and hospitals for breast reduction
Asst. Prof. Ajchariya Sarovath
Dr. Burin Wangjiraniran
Prof. Chairat Burusapat
Prof. Charan Mahatumarat
Dr. Duangkamon Chiranakorn
Prof. Nond Rojvachiranonda
Asst. Prof. Nutthawut Akaranuchat
Dr. Piyapas Pichaichanarong
Dr. Pongsatorn Sanguanchua
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Preecha Tiewtranon
Asst. Prof. Dr. Puttan Wongtriratanachai
Dr. Sanguan Kunaporn
Dr. Sattha Siritantikorn
Asst. Prof. Dr. Seree Iamphongsai
Asst. Prof. Dr. Sorawuth Chu-Ongsakul
Dr. Sukit Mekraksavanich
Dr. Sutin Khobunsongserm
Dr. Suttisun Jankajorn
Dr. Veerawat Tirananmongkol
Dr. Visnu Lohsiriwat
Dr. Narupon Rojanapithayakorn
Dr. Worapon Ratanalert
Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital
WIH International Hospital
W Plastic Surgery Hospital
Wansiri Hospital
Interplast Clinic
Nirunda International Aesthetic Clinic
Piyavate Hospital
Thonburi Bamrungmuang Hospital
Bangpakok 9 International Hospital
IDL Hospital
Phuket Aesthetic Surgery Clinic
Bangkok Plastic Surgery Clinic
Phibeauty Clinic
Bangkok Hospital Samui
Dr.Puttan Plastic Surgery (คลินิกศัลยกรรมตกแต่งหมอพุดตาน)
Dr. Wimon Plastic Surgery (คลินิกหมอวิมล)
Mission Hospital
Intrarat Hospital
SLC Hospital
Bonnie Hospital
Bangkok Skin Plastic Surgery Center
BB Clinic & Beauty Center
Absolute Beauty Clinic
THE KLINIQUE Surgery Center
Dermaster Beauty Clinic
Bumrungrad International Hospital
Vejthani Hospital
Bangkok Hospital Siriroj
Masterpiece Hospital
Kamol Cosmetic Hospital
Bangkok Hospital Pattaya
Bangkok Hospital (Headquarters)
Phuket Plastic Surgery Institute (PPSI)
Preecha Aesthetic Institute (PAI)
Yanhee International Hospital
Breast reduction by destination
Frequently asked questions
How long should I stay in Thailand after breast reduction?
Commonly 10–14 days, so your surgeon can check wound healing before you fly.
Will breast reduction relieve back pain?
Many people report less neck, back and shoulder pain afterwards, but results vary and other causes of pain should be assessed.
Can I breastfeed after breast reduction?
Some people can, but breast reduction can reduce or prevent breastfeeding. Discuss future plans with your surgeon.
Will there be scars?
Yes. Scars depend on the technique and usually fade over 12–18 months; they are generally hidden by a bra or swimwear.
Is breast reduction the same as a breast lift?
A reduction removes tissue and lifts; a breast lift reshapes and raises the breast without significantly reducing its size.
Sources
- Breast reduction. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Accessed 2026-09-23.
- Breast reduction on the NHS. NHS. Accessed 2026-09-23.
- Medical Council of Thailand. Medical Council of Thailand. Accessed 2026-09-23.
This page is written by our editorial team from the sources above. See our medical review policy.