Breast Reduction

What is breast reduction?

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure designed to remove excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to reduce the size and weight of the breasts.

This procedure may be considered by individuals who experience:

• Physical discomfort such as neck, shoulder, or back pain caused by large breasts.
• Skin irritation or rashes under the breast crease.
• Difficulty with physical activity due to breast size.
• Concerns about breast asymmetry or appearance.

Important note: The decision to undergo breast reduction surgery should be made after a thorough consultation with a qualified, registered health practitioner, who will discuss your personal circumstances, potential benefits, and risks.

How is breast reduction performed?

Breast reduction surgery is generally performed under general anaesthesia.

Surgical steps:

1. Marking and planning
   • Before surgery, your practitioner will carefully mark incision lines and take measurements while you are standing.
   • Once you are lying down under anaesthesia, breast tissue shifts naturally, and the markings guide the surgical approach.
2. Tissue removal and reshaping
   • Excess breast tissue is typically removed from both the inner and outer areas of the breasts.
   • The remaining tissue and skin are reshaped to achieve a more balanced breast contour.
3. Nipple repositioning
   • The nipple and areola are moved to a higher position, but they remain attached to the underlying breast tissue to preserve blood supply and sensation as much as possible.
4. Closing the incisions
   • Skin edges are carefully brought together using sutures.
   • At the end of the surgery, a supportive dressing or surgical bra is applied.
   • Drainage tubes may be placed to remove any fluid or blood that collects beneath the skin. These are usually removed within 2–3 days after surgery.

Recovery and aftercare

Recovery will vary depending on the individual, the amount of tissue removed, and your overall health.

• Most people experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the first few days after surgery.
• Pain relief and antibiotic medications may be prescribed to support healing and reduce the risk of infection.
• You may need to wear a supportive surgical bra for several weeks to minimise swelling and support your breasts as they heal.
• Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and activities that put strain on the chest should be avoided for at least 4–6 weeks, or as advised by your practitioner.
• Follow-up appointments are essential to monitor healing and address any concerns.

Risks and potential complications

As with all surgical procedures, breast reduction carries potential risks. Your practitioner will discuss these with you in detail before the surgery.

Possible complications include:

• Infection
• Scarring, which varies depending on individual healing
• Breast asymmetry, where one breast may heal differently than the other
• Loss or changes in nipple or breast sensation, which may be temporary or permanent
• Potential difficulties with breastfeeding
• Haematoma (internal bleeding causing swelling or firmness)
• Delayed or poor wound healing
• Adverse reactions to anaesthesia

Not all risks can be predicted, and outcomes will vary for each person. In some cases, revision surgery may be needed to address complications or achieve the desired result.

Key considerations

• Breast reduction can significantly reduce breast size and weight but cannot stop the natural ageing process, and breast shape may change over time.
• Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and significant weight changes may affect long-term results.
• It is important to have realistic expectations and to make an informed decision after a full consultation with a qualified, registered health practitioner.
• This procedure may not be suitable for everyone, and your practitioner will assess your overall health and goals before making recommendations.