Breast Reduction Surgery in the Philippines

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Breast Reduction Surgery removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to decrease breast size and relieve discomfort, while a Breast Lift (Mastopexy) reshapes and elevates the breasts without reducing volume. Although both procedures improve breast contour and position, breast reduction focuses on breast size reduction and symptom relief, whereas a breast lift primarily addresses sagging and restores a more youthful breast shape. Patients with large, heavy breasts often benefit from reduction, while those with mild to moderate drooping and adequate volume may achieve optimal results with a lift alone.

• those with large breasts experiencing chronic back pain, neck and shoulder pain
   
• if you have skin irritation or rashes under the breasts
   
• difficulty with exercise or daily physical activity
   
• Bra strap grooves and posture problems
   
• Asymmetry or heavy, sagging breasts

• individuals with sagging or drooping breasts (ptosis), where the nipples point downward or sit below the breast crease

• women who have lost breast firmness and shape due to aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss

• those whose breast volume is adequate but lacks elevation and projection

• individuals seeking a more youthful, lifted breast contour without significantly reducing breast size

Before surgery:  pre-operative laboratories and medical clearance is done to ensure the patient is healthy.  Baseline Breast Ultrasound and Breast Mammogram are done prior to surgery to ensure no preexisting mass or nodules are present. 

Anesthesia: done under general anesthesia in a hospital setting.  You are admitted in the hospital for 3-5 days.

Incision: Breast reduction and breast lift surgeries use similar incision patterns, typically around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and sometimes along the crease itself (an “anchor” or “lollipop” shape). The difference is that breast reduction removes extra tissue to make the breasts smaller, while a breast lift mainly reshapes and elevates the breasts using those same incision lines. In both procedures, the nipple-areola complex is carefully repositioned to a higher, more natural-looking position on the breast.

Procedure Time:  around 3--4 hours

• Post-op Course: You will be discharged from the hospital with drains out of the breast, which will be removed after 1-2 weeks.  Oral antibiotics and pain reliever are taken for 1-2 weeks.  Expect swelling for 3-4 weeks over the breast.  Frequent ice compress is advised to help with the swelling.  

• Suture Removal: sutures are removed after 10-14 days.  Drains will be removed if output is less than 20cc in 24 hours.
   
• Downtime: 2-4 weeks for swelling; most return to work in a week or two

• Scarring:  scars are usually visible for 1-3 months and will gradually fade over 6-12 months
   
• Results: Expect the breasts to look boxy for the first few months after surgery.  The breasts will gradually settle down to a more natural look in 6-12 months.  

Q: Will the results look natural?
A: Yes. Dr. Aicee tailors the procedure to your body frame and aesthetic goals to create natural, well-proportioned breasts.

Q: Can I still breastfeed after the surgery?
A: Some women may retain the ability to breastfeed, but it depends on the technique used and individual anatomy. This will be discussed during your consultation.

Q: Will I lose nipple sensation?
A: Some temporary numbness is common, but sensation often returns gradually over time. Dr. Aicee uses techniques that prioritize nerve preservation.

Hospital Cost of Breast Reduction or Breast Lift Surgery  by Dr. Aicee Bernal is around P350,000 to P400,000 depending on length of hospital stay and choice of hospital room.   The procedure is done under general anesthesia under the care of a board-certified anesthesiologist. This does not include preoperative laboratories, clearance and post-op medications.  

Philhealth sometimes covers Breast Reduction if done for medical reasons.  However, Breast Lift is not covered by Philhealth since it is a cosmetic procedure.

As a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Aicee Bernal offers a compassionate, personalized approach to breast reduction or breast lift. She carefully balances aesthetic goals with physical relief, designing results that are natural-looking, proportionate, and beautifully contoured.

With a focus on safety, symmetry, and scarring minimization, Dr. Aicee ensures patients feel confident and cared for — every step of the way.

Take the first step toward relief, comfort, and confidence.
Schedule your breast reduction consultation with Dr. Aicee Bernal and discover how personalized surgery can restore balance to your body and life.