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Breast Reduction
Larger breasts may put a lot of additional strain on the upper body, resulting in ongoing neck, back and shoulder pain. Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with your body.
Accessible Consultation Process
Surgery in Accredited Medical Facility
A Patient Care Focused Approach
Breast reduction is a highly individualised procedure and may not be suitable for everyone.
Over time, the weight of large breasts can result in the breasts hanging low, stretching the skin and even creating excess skin folds that may attract skin irritations or rashes.
Breast reduction surgery reduces the amount that the breasts will hang and lifts the breasts to a position that should be comfortable for the individual. The nipple is also moved when the breasts are adjusted.
The Procedure
During your procedure, there are several different types of incisions that can be used, all of which start around the areola. The anchor and lollipop incisions are the two most popular techniques used during breast reduction surgery.
While the nipple remains tethered to nerves and its blood supply, any excess fat and breast tissue is removed. The breasts are then lifted and shaped before your surgeon closes the incisions.
This procedure is performed under a general anaesthesia in an accredited hospital facility by a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon.
The final size of your breasts is dependent on your specific goals as well as the size and composition of your breasts. In most instances, patients go down a cup size or two during surgery.
There is a chance that you might need to spend a night in hospital but in most instances, patients are able to go home on the same day.
Candidates for Breast Reduction Surgery
This is a highly personalised procedure that won’t be the best option for everyone. Before you make a final decision, discuss your options with one of our qualified surgeons. We will assess your goals, the condition of your breasts and general health before offering a rec-ommendation.
Here is some of what you should keep in mind before you make a final decision about breast reduction surgery:
- It’s highly recommended that breast reduction surgery is only undertaken once the breasts are fully developed.
- Women who are still breastfeeding or planning to grow their families are advised to wait before undergoing surgery. Breast reduction surgery won’t affect your ability to have more children but it can potentially affect your ability to breastfeed.
- Gaining weight or falling pregnant following a breast reduction could alter your results. This is something to keep in mind before scheduling your procedure.
- All of our surgeons recommend patients cease smoking at least six weeks prior to surgery. This is due to strong evidence that links smoking with delayed healing and an increased incidence of post-operative complications. We recommend that you speak to your GP regarding a plan prior to your consultation.
Breast reduction surgery should only be considered by patients in good physical health and those who have realistic expectations. The breasts should be fully developed and cause issues such as pain, rashes and general discomfort.
Patients with a breast weight that causes bra indentations and are hanging low may also benefit from breast reduction surgery.
Breast Reduction Before and After
FAQ’s
How much does a breast reduction cost?
Once you have met with your surgeon and a clinical plan has been established, our client support officers will organise a quote. Your quote will include a fee for your surgeon as well as an estimate of anaesthetist and hospital fees. There may also be costs associated with medication, pathology and post-surgery garments.
In some instances, a breast reduction is considered medically necessary, and will attract a Medicare item number. If you are insured, your private health insurer may also cover some of the costs of your procedure, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.
What are the potential risks associated with a breast reduction procedure?
All surgical and invasive procedures carry risk, and these will be discussed during your consultation with your specialist plastic surgeon. All of our procedures are carried out in accredited hospital facilities with assistance from FANZCA qualified anaesthetists.
You will be provided with procedure specific information prior to your surgery with instructions to ensure that you are in prime condition prior to your procedure. You will also be provided with post-operative instructions outlining proper aftercare, including things to be aware of. Our specialised clinical team is available should you have any questions or concerns.
How should I prepare for a breast reduction?
Prior to your procedure, it’s important to stay healthy. This means eating the right foods, getting enough sleep and exercise, and keeping your immune system strong. It’s also im-portant to prepare for your recovery before your breast reduction. You may wish to pre-prepare some healthy meals, purchase some comfortable loose clothing and ice packs, and fill any prescriptions you may need in the week following surgery.
You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery and stay with you for a couple of days. This is particularly necessary if you have small children at home – you will need someone to assist you. You may wish to set up a recovery area where you can relax and sleep in an elevated position.
What should I do after my breast reduction surgery?
Discomfort, swelling, bruising and numbness are all normal after a breast reduction. This will ease over the following weeks, and our clinic team will be able to offer you advice on effective pain management. A compression garment is worn after any breast surgery to reduce swelling and increase comfort during recovery. To drain excess fluid, you may have drains which will be managed with the help of nursing staff.
Patients need several days to rest and recover after a reduction procedure. During the first few weeks after the reduction, heavy lifting, strenuous exercise and swimming is discouraged. Smoking should also be avoided to accelerate the healing process and prevent complications.
Will there be scarring after a breast reduction?
All surgical procedures will result in scars however there are steps that can be taken to ensure visible scars are kept to a minimum. For instance, keeping your incision site protected from the sun, using tape and massaging the area once healed.
Are my breast reduction results permanent?
Most patients can enjoy permanent results after a breast reduction. Unfortunately, there is a slight chance that your breasts can increase in size after surgery. There’s no way to predict how your body will respond following surgery. If you happen to gain a significant amount of weight or fall pregnant after your surgery, your breasts will increase in size again.
Ask us a question
Our wonderful team is standing by ready to answer any questions you have.
Breast Surgery Before & After
By Surgeons
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.