Reduction surgery: the surgical term for tissue reduction

In plastic surgery, many terms are used whose exact meaning is often unclear. The medical term ‘reduction surgery’ is a classic example of this. Although it is often used as a synonym for a specific procedure, it actually describes an overarching surgical principle.

This article explains, in a clear and precise manner, exactly what the term ‘reduction surgery’ means, which procedures it encompasses, and how it differs from the well-known breast reduction operation.

What is a reduction plasty?

Reduction surgery is the general surgical term for all surgical procedures aimed at reducing the size or volume of an organ or a part of the body.

The name is derived from „reduction“ (diminution) and the suffix „-plasty“, which in surgery stands for „shaping“ or „forming“. It therefore refers to the shaping and reduction of tissue.

Classification of the term: generic term vs. specific application

Although the term „reduction plasty“ is theoretically applicable to many areas, in everyday clinical practice and in common parlance it is predominantly used to refer to a specific procedure. However, it is important to understand the correct hierarchy.

The most common procedure: breast reduction surgery

By far the best-known and most commonly performed procedure is breast reduction. This involves removing excess glandular, fatty and skin tissue in order to reduce the size of and reshape breasts that are too large and heavy (macromastia). As this is the most common procedure, the terms „reduction mammoplasty“ and „breast reduction“ are often used interchangeably.

Other areas of application

The principle of reduction surgery is also applied in other areas of plastic and reconstructive surgery:

Labia reduction surgery:
The technical term for labia reduction, a procedure in which the inner labia (labia minora) are reduced in size.

Ear pinning surgery:
Surgical ear reduction to correct oversized ears (macrotia).

Gastric reduction surgery (stomach reduction):
A procedure used in bariatric surgery, such as sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass.

An overview of reduction modelling: areas of application and objectives

Risks and the importance of insurance cover

Any form of reduction surgery is a major surgical procedure which carries general and specific risks. Depending on the procedure, these may include impaired wound healing, infections, post-operative bleeding, scarring problems or an unsatisfactory aesthetic outcome.

The costs of treating complications or of any necessary revision surgery are not always covered by health insurance, depending on the medical indication for the initial procedure – in the case of purely cosmetic treatments, patients generally have to bear the costs themselves. A Consequential Costs Insurance provides financial security for cosmetic procedures where the risk lies entirely with the patient.

Frequently asked questions about reduction surgery