Breast reduction is a surgical procedure that decreases breast size and weight to relieve discomfort while creating a more proportionate, balanced silhouette.
The Evolution of Breast Reduction
Breast reduction surgery has a long and well-documented history, with early references dating back to the 7th century when Greek physician Paul of Aegina described procedures aimed at reducing breast size for medical relief. For centuries, the procedure was primarily considered reconstructive in nature, focusing on alleviating health-related concerns caused by excess breast tissue. As surgical knowledge advanced in the 19th century, aesthetic considerations began to play a more prominent role, and breast reduction evolved into a procedure that addressed both function and appearance. Throughout the 20th century, ongoing refinements shifted the focus toward achieving natural-looking, balanced outcomes.
A major milestone occurred in 1956 with the introduction of the Wise pattern technique, which allowed for reliable tissue removal but resulted in more extensive scarring. Over time, modern approaches such as vertical and short-scar techniques were developed to reduce incision length while improving shape and contour.
Today, these advanced methods utilize more discreet incision patterns, producing subtle, lollipop-shaped scars that are easier to conceal and designed to deliver refined, natural results.
