Breast Reduction Surgery Brisbane (Reduction Mammoplasty)

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 adjust the size of the breasts, in proportion to your body.

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Accessible Consultation Process
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Surgery in Accredited Medical Facility
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A Patient Care Focused Approach

When the weight and size of significantly larger breasts can lead to physical issues, such as back, neck and shoulder pain, surgery may be a suitable option.

Over time, the weight of large breasts can also result in stretched skin, which can sometimes lead to excess skin folds that may attract skin irritations, rashes or infections. Even after being treated by topical creams or antibiotics, these skin conditions can be reoccurring.

As well as pain, discomfort and skin conditions, larger breasts can sometimes cause mobility issues, interfering with daily quality of life.

Breast reduction surgery reduces the size and weight of the breasts and lifts them to a higher position. When the breasts are adjusted, the nipples are also moved to a suitable position for the change in their shape and size.

Breast reduction mammoplasty is a highly individualised procedure and may not be suitable for everyone. A consultation with one of the surgeons who operate at Valley Plastic Surgery will enable our team to assess your suitability for the procedure.

Potential Benefits of Breast Reduction Surgery

A breast reduction can reduce the size and heaviness of the breasts, which can improve comfort levels, prevent skin irritation and infection, and improve mobility.

The benefits of the procedure really come down to what each patient needs, and their reasons for undergoing the procedure.

While addressing the symptoms that the size and weight of the breasts can help, such as managing back and neck pain or treating skin conditions, targeting the course of these concerns may be the best option for some patients.

The procedure can achieve permanent results and make a lasting change to certain issues, including mobility, back and neck pain, and skin concerns.

Suitable Candidates for Breast Reduction Surgery

The highly personalised breast reduction procedure won’t be a suitable option for everyone.

Before you make a final decision, discuss your options with one of the qualified surgeons who operate at VPS. We will assess your goals, the condition of your breasts, and your general health before offering a recommendation.

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 you speak to your GP about a plan before 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 costs in Brisbane

Once you have met with your surgeon and established a clinical plan, our client support officers will organise a quote. Your quote will include a fee for your surgeon, an estimate of anaesthetist and hospital fees, and possible costs associated with medication, pathology, and post-surgery garments.

Each of these fees can differ from patient to patient, which is why it will be important to discuss your personal situation during a consultation. Breast reduction procedures need to be highly tailored to each patient’s needs, which can influence the complexity of the steps, the time required in the hospital and certain costs that may be required during recovery.

An in-depth discussion of your costs can help you to feel prepared for surgery, and know what to expect ahead of time. If you have any questions about your procedure costs before your consultation, you are welcome to contact our team!

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.

Breast reduction Medicare information

When a breast reduction is considered to be medically necessary, Medicare may cover a portion of the procedure’s costs.

The procedure can be a medical necessity if the breasts are at a size and weight that are causing health concerns. Concerns can include back, shoulder and neck pain, mobility issues, skin rashes (that can lead to frequent skin infections), and more.

To receive breast reduction Medicare cover, you will need to meet Medicare’s strict requirements. You will need to be able to prove and document the medical necessity of the procedure.

To discuss the process of applying for a Medicate rebate, and if you will meet the requirements, you can discuss your reasons for undergoing a breast reduction during your consultation.

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 general anaesthesia in an accredited hospital facility by one of the qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeons who operate at VPS.

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 you might need to spend a night in the hospital, but in most instances, patients are able to go home on the same day.

Breast Reduction Before and After

Surgery Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery and aftercare following a breast reduction will involve a combination of following medical instructions, lifestyle adjustments, and patience as your body heals.

Immediately after surgery

Straight after a breast reduction surgery, patients will need to be monitored in a recovery room.

Dressings and a compression bra will help to minimise swelling and support the breasts as they heal. Drains may be placed to remove excess blood and fluid, and these are usually removed within a few days.

The first week

Pain and discomfort are expected, but these can be managed with prescribed pain medications. Swelling and bruising are common in the initial weeks and should be expected as part of the healing process.

During the first week, it will be important to get plenty of rest. Patients will be advised to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting. Instructions on wound care will also be important to follow, helping the incision sites heal. These instructions generally include keeping the incisions clean and dry, changing dressings, and looking out for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge. Sleeping on the back with the head elevated can help reduce swelling and discomfort.

The second week

By the second week, many patients start to feel more comfortable and may begin to see a reduction in swelling and bruising.

Wearing the compression bra will still be essential during this period of time, as it helps maintain the new breast shape and supports healing tissues. Light activities and short walks are usually encouraged by the second week of recovery to promote circulation, but any form of exercise should be approved by your surgeon first. Stitches, if not dissolvable, are generally removed during a follow-up visit around this time.

Weeks three-to-four

From the third to the fourth week, the majority of patients can resume non-strenuous activities, and many return to work, depending on their job’s physical demands.

However, it is still important to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and any activities that put strain on the upper body. The breasts may still feel sensitive, and numbness or tingling sensations might occur as the nerves continue to heal. Patients are encouraged to keep hydrated, maintain a balanced diet, and refrain from smoking.

The sixth week and beyond

The body will typically have significantly healed by the sixth week. Most patients will be cleared to resume normal activities, including more strenuous exercise, but this will depend on individual healing and the surgeon’s personalised recommendations. The support bra can often be replaced with a regular bra, provided it offers good support.

In the longer term, patients will be advised to maintain a healthy lifestyle and maintain a stable weight. Long-term recovery and aftercare focus on preventing any complications from occurring, and continuing to support the body’s healing process. Patients may require follow-up appointments after the initial healing period, to monitor the progress of the results.

Your personal recovery timeline may look slightly different, so it is essential to closely follow your personalised recovery instructions.

Managing scarring after a breast reduction

While scarring is normal after any surgery, managing scarring with aftercare steps can help to minimise their appearance.

Initially after the surgery, you will need to keep the incision sites clean and dry, following your surgeon’s tailored instructions. Applying topical creams can help to aid in healing, and preventing infection. While your incisions are healing, wearing the compression bra can help to avoid tension on the incisions. Maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated can also support the skin’s healing process.

Once the incisions are sufficiently healed, using silicone sheets or gels can help to minimise scar formation. Regularly massaging scars can also improve tissue flexibility, reducing the appearance of scarring. Avoiding exposing scars to sunlight will help to prevent the darkening of scars caused by excessive exposure to UV rays. If the area will be exposed to sunlight, you should apply sunscreen to help prevent darkening.

Reduction Mammoplasty Risks and Side Effects

All surgical and invasive procedures carry risks, which will be discussed during your consultation with your specialist plastic surgeon. 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 a suitable condition to undergo your procedure. You will also be provided with post-operative instructions outlining proper aftercare, and the symptoms of any complications that you may need to look out for. Our specialised clinical team will be available after your surgery, should you have any questions or concerns.

Possible risks and complications of a breast reduction, or reduction mammoplasty, include:

  • Bleeding
  • Hematomas
  • Infection
  • Reactions to general anaesthesia
  • Scarring (including hypertrophic scars or keloids)
  • Changes in breast and nipple sensation (numbness, tingling, heightened sensitivity)
  • Asymmetry
  • Impact on the ability to breastfeed
  • Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)

Postoperative bleeding and hematomas may require additional surgical intervention, and infections at incision sites may need treatment, such as antibiotics.

Changes in breast and nipple sensation, often temporary, can occasionally be permanent, which may not be treatable. As with any cosmetic surgery, there’s a risk of asymmetry or unsatisfactory results, which may mean that revision surgery will be needed.

When you have your consultation with one of experienced and qualified surgeons who operate at VPS, you can receive in-depth information about each possible complication, and how complications can be prevented, minimised or managed.

FAQ’s

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 important 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.

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.

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.

Most patients will be able to achieve permanent results after a breast reduction. There may be a slight chance that your breasts can increase in size after surgery, but there is no specific way to predict how your body will respond after your procedure. If you happen to gain a significant amount of weight or fall pregnant after your surgery, your breasts may increase in size again. When you meet with your surgeon, before undergoing your procedure, you can discuss how to maintain your results in the longer term and prevent future fluctuations in breast size.

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Breast Surgery Before & After

By Surgeons

dr 1 - Breast Reduction Brisbane 1

Doctor Matthew Peters

BSc. MBBS FRACS (Plast.)

dr 2 - Breast Reduction Brisbane 2

Doctor Raymond Goh

MBBS (Hons) FRACS (Plast.)

dr 5 - Breast Reduction Brisbane 3

Doctor Alys Saylor

BSc. MBBS FRACS (Plast.)

drcheisjardim thumbnail - Breast Reduction Brisbane 4

Doctor Christopher Jardim

BSc. MBBS FRACS (Plast.)

dr cheng - Breast Reduction Brisbane 5

Doctor Matthew Cheng

BSc, MBBS (Hons), FRACS (Plast) PhD

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

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