Breast Reduction
Breast reduction is generally performed for symptom relief rather than just as a cosmetic improvement, and has the highest satisfaction outcome of all plastic surgery procedures because it transforms women’s lives.
Breast reduction reduces the size of the breasts, to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life
Breast reduction surgery is performed to reduce the size of breasts that are large enough to impact negatively on quality of life - some candidates may be eligible for Medicare rebates as this is not just cosmetic improvement. Large breasts are painful and can be disabling, causing neck, shoulder and back pain, and causing poor self esteem.
It is recommended that breast reduction surgery be performed at a young age, so that women can be more active at the time in their lives when they want to be. Breast reduction surgery can also be performed on older women, when saggy breast becomes more of an issue as firmness is lost over time.
Breast reduction is generally safe when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, but as with all surgeries there is always the possibility of complications. The procedure leaves permanent scars that are concealed by the bra, and can sometimes result in a slight mismatch of breasts. Loss of nipple and areolar tissue is rare.
Frequently asked questions about breast reduction surgery
What age should breast reduction be performed?
Women are often surprised to hear that this procedure should be done at a young age, so that women can be more active in their younger years. The impact on breastfeeding and breast function is positive, improvements that have been confirmed by Australian based research studies. Opportunities for treatment can also come at a later stage in life, and women of all ages are encouraged to consider this surgery.
What are the indications for breast reduction?
Breast reduction surgery is performed for physical relief and uneven breasts, and symptoms often include shoulder, neck and back pain. It is indicated for women who complain of difficulty with bras, the fitting of clothing, unwanted attention and the inability to be physically active. Some women have significant differences between each breast, and this discrepancy can be resolved through breast reduction surgery.
Is a breast lift different to a breast reduction?
Breast lift or mastopexy is when the breast mound and nipple are raised on the chest wall, without reducing the breast volume. This procedure is often requested following breast feeding or significant weight loss. Women often have significant discomfort due to the lack of breast tissue support. Internal breast support is part of both procedures and contributes greatly to the long term relief of discomfort.
What are the risks from breast reduction?
Breast reduction is not a simple operation, but it is normally safe when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon and you are welcome to ask about the surgeon’s experience and training. As with any surgery, there is always the possibility of complications, and the procedure does leave noticeable permanent scars that are normally covered by your bra.
The procedure can leave you with slightly mismatched breasts and breast sensation may take some time to recover - though permanent loss is uncommon. Loss of nipple and areolar tissue is rare. There is no guarantee of a particular bra size, the plan is to safely maximise the reduction result and to avoid tissue damage and complications.
For every step of your plastic surgery
journey, we are by your side.
Bendigo Plastic Surgery follows a simple tried-and-tested process for our surgical procedures. From initial consultation to recovery and beyond, our team will take care of you.
1
Before surgery
In your initial visit it is important for you to discuss your expectations frankly with your surgeon, and it is recommended that a friend or partner attend. This visit is not about booking surgery, it is a thorough discussion to plan and understand the treatment and care involved, then individualise your care plan.
You will be examined, measured and photographed to plan for this surgery. The quality of your tissues - including the condition your skin and the size of your breasts - will impact on planning and your outcome. The surgeon will describe the procedure in detail, explaining the risks, limitations and realistic expected outcome. Further consultations can be arranged to prepare you for planned surgery, and financial information will be provided.
2
During surgery
The breast reduction procedure is performed under a general anaesthetic. Pectoral nerve anaesthetic blocks are used to achieve high comfort, minimising the need for pain medication during and after surgery.
3
After surgery
Patients can expect some bruising and swelling after surgery, and your surgeon will provide detailed instructions for the days and weeks of recovery, including information about showering, dressings and supportive garments.
It’s important to refrain from strenuous activities, particularly using your arms to push and lift. It can take anywhere between two to six weeks to recover after breast reduction surgery, and recovery time will depend on individual circumstances.
Best-practice plastic surgery right here in Bendigo
You don’t have to travel to the city for best-practice plastic surgery. Richard Dickinson MBBS FRACS is a Sydney-trained surgeon who brings a wealth of expertise to Bendigo, a place he has called home for 20 years.
Conveniently located, our clinic offers the best of both worlds - best-practice plastic surgery in a convenient location close to home.
Want to know more?
Book a no-obligation consultation with our surgeon today.
If you’d like to know more, feel free to contact us and we can arrange a time for you to visit our clinic for a no obligation consultation.
If you have any questions, our surgeon can answer them for you. We look forward to meeting you.