Breast Reduction

(Reduction Mammaplasty)

Breast Reduction Surgery (Reduction Mammaplasty) is a procedure to reduce the size and weight of large, heavy breasts. This procedure can be performed for both medical and cosmetic reasons. Patients with overly large breasts often experience physical discomfort and pain in their neck, shoulders, and back, which can be relieved through breast reduction surgery (reduction mammaplasty).

The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and lasts between two and four hours, depending on the extent of the reduction. The underlying breast tissue is removed, and the remaining tissue is reshaped and lifted to create a firmer, more youthful appearance. The nipple and areola are also repositioned to a higher location on the breast.

After undergoing the surgical procedure, patients may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the affected area. The severity of these symptoms may vary from patient to patient, but they can be managed effectively with the appropriate pain medication and proper aftercare. Most patients are able to return to work and normal activities within a week or two after the surgery

​Book a consultation with me to discuss the different options available and which one may be the best fit for you.

Before & After

  • Image of a woman with large breasts and with excess belly fat before breast reduction & tummy tuck surgery

    Before

  • Eight weeks post-op photo of a woman's breasts after successful reduction surgery and a smoother and flatter abdominal area after tummy tuck surgery.

    8 weeks After

  • Picture of woman's abdomen & breasts 18 months after a successful breast reduction & tummy tuck surgery.

    18 months After

Photo Disclaimer: The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

 FAQs

  • Here are a few essential steps to help you prepare for your upcoming breast reduction surgery (reduction mammaplasty):⁣

    ◉ Eat well-balanced meals

    ◉ Ensure a relaxing environment at home with good support from a responsible adult.

    ◉ Arrange for time off work (ideally 2 weeks minimum or more for more strenuous jobs)

    ◉ Choose loose-fitting, comfortable clothing

    ◉ Quit smoking

  • Most patients can resume driving within 1-2 weeks after their breast reduction surgery. However, it is important to assess your comfort level before getting behind the wheel. Ensure that you can turn the steering wheel comfortably, brake, and change gears without pain or hesitation. Some patients may feel confident enough to drive back to the clinic for their one-week follow-up appointment, while others may need an additional week or so before feeling comfortable enough to drive.

  • Reduction mammaplasty is a surgical procedure that aims to reduce the size and reshape the breasts to alleviate physical discomfort and improve body proportions. After undergoing breast reduction surgery, it is important to allow yourself ample time to recover and heal. The recovery process varies from person to person, but here are some:

    ◉ After breast reduction surgery (reduction mammaplasty) most women are surprisingly comfortable. You will be up and about the next day and most women go home about 2 days after the surgery.

    ◉ About 2 days in hospital

    ◉ Some mild to moderate discomfort for a few days’ post operatively- usually mild pain killers are all that are required

    ◉ Dressings will usually be left intact for the first week. They are moderately water proof so careful bathing is allowed

    ◉ You will usually be fine to get back to light office type work after 2 weeks (occasionally a little earlier)

    ◉ We recommend no physical work or gym work etc for at least 4 weeks from the time of surgery.

    ◉ We recommend the use of a firm, non-underwire bra (sports bra or similar) for the first 4 weeks.

  • Like all surgeries, breast reduction surgery (reduction mammaplasty) has some risks and trade-offs that you should be aware of if you are considering this type of surgery. These include, but are not limited to:

    • Scarring- you will have scars on the chest. Whilst these often fade over time, they will always be visible and can be thickened or widened

    • Pain, bleeding and wound healing problems around the time of surgery- these are usually minor but can sometimes cause some problems.

    • Wound healing problems requiring dressings

    • Longer term pain and numbness

    • Significant bleeding requiring return to the operating theatre or blood transfusion.

    • Fat necrosis- a process where some of the fat in the new breasts becomes hard and lumpy

    • Necrosis of the nipple- necrosis is a medical term for damage and tissue death. Moving the nipple significant distances, particularly in large reductions can reduce the blood supply to the nipple and cause part or all of it to go black and scab over. This is rare and plastic surgeons have techniques to rebuild nipples if required.

    • Asymmetry- most women have some degree of asymmetry with their breasts naturally. It is not possible to guarantee perfect symmetry of the breasts following surgery however the degree of symmetry achieved is usually very acceptable. This includes the shape, nipple position and scar position.

    • Reduced nipple sensation and reduced ability to breast feed. These are both variable but you should be prepared for these.

    • Occult breast cancer diagnosis- this is again rare, however all breast tissue removed is sent to the lab for checking.

Start your journey today.

Have a question? Reach out on socials.