What is reduction mammaplasty surgery?
Reduction Mammaplasty, also known as breast reduction surgery, is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the size, weight, and volume of the breasts by removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin. This procedure is typically performed to help relieve physical discomfort associated with large breasts, such as neck, back, and shoulder pain, skin irritation, or difficulty with physical activity.
Breast Reduction surgery aims to create smaller, more proportionate breasts that align with the patient’s body frame while also alleviating discomfort. In some cases, breast reduction surgery may also include reshaping and repositioning the nipples for a natural-looking and balanced breast profile. Breast Reduction can also address physical discomfort and pain associated with heavy, pendulous breasts.
The best surgical approach for breast reduction will depend on the patient’s personal circumstances and customised to suit the patient’s unique needs and natural breast anatomy, all of which will be discussed during a consultation. This tailored approach ensures the breast reduction process aligns with the patient’s goals and desired outcomes, while addressing any specific concerns the patient may have.
As with any surgical procedure, breast reduction carries potential risks and complications that need to be considered. It is important to consult with an experienced specialist plastic surgeon to discuss the best treatment options, expected outcomes, what to expect during recovery and cover any potential risks associated with breast reduction surgery, including how these will be managed in the case complications do arise.
Our experienced Specialist Plastic Surgeons provide personalised consultations to create a tailored surgical plan that is best suited to achieve the patient’s goals.
Also known as:
- Breast Reduction
- Reduction Surgery
- Mammoplasty Reduction
Breast reduction surgery | what to expect
| Results | Permanent – natural aging and weight fluctuations can affect results |
|---|---|
| Surgery Time | 90 minutes |
| Hospital Stay | Day Surgery |
| Off-Work | 10-14 days |
| Exercise | Limited for 6 weeks |
| Full Recovery | 3-12 months |
Why consider breast reduction surgery
Many women experience daily challenges due to the size and weight of their breasts. Those with naturally large breasts often experience skin irritation, difficulty engaging in physical activities, and overall discomfort. Hormonal or weight fluctuations can also have an effect on the weight, shape and size of the breasts. The added weight on the chest can also lead to significant upper back, neck, and shoulder pain.
The choice to undergo breast reduction surgery is a personal decision that can be driven by medical, aesthetic or lifestyle factors, and the decision to proceed with breast reduction surgery should be a well informed and considered process.
Common reasons patients may consider breast reduction surgery include:
Improved Posture
The weight of heavy breasts can often result in poor posture as individuals unconsciously adjust their stance to carry and balance the weight of their breasts. Breast reduction surgery can help correct and improve this issue by reducing breast size, and as a result can ease the strain on upper body muscles. With the weight redistributed, patients may find it easier to maintain a straighter posture.
Improved Physical Comfort
One of the most common outcomes of breast reduction surgery is the alleviation of physical pain, strain and discomfort. Large breasts can cause significant back, neck, and shoulder pain due to their weight. By reducing breast size, breast reduction surgery may help improve comfort and relieve the strain on these areas.
Reduced Skin Irritation
Large breasts can often cause ongoing skin irritation, particularly in the breast crease or beneath the breasts. This discomfort is a result of excess friction, moisture buildup, and limited airflow. By reducing breast size through breast reduction surgery, the risk of chafing and irritation may be significantly minimised.
Enhanced Mobility
Large breasts can affect daily activities, including physical activity and general mobility. Breast reduction surgery can help improve comfort, making it easier to engage in exercise, sports, and daily activities.
Proportionate Appearance
Excessively large breasts can create an unbalanced breast appearance, and may have an impact on overall body proportions. By reducing breast size, breast reduction surgery may help achieve a more balanced and proportionate breast profile.
Healthy Lifestyle
Participating in physical activities or exercise can be difficult for individuals with large breasts due to discomfort and restricted movement. Whether it’s playing sports or enjoying outdoor activities, a smaller breast size can improve mobility and make movement more comfortable.
Am I a suitable candidate for breast reduction surgery?
If you suffer from back pain or posture problems caused by large, heavy breasts and wish to achieve a more proportionate breast size, breast reduction surgery may be a suitable option for you.
Breast Reduction surgery aims to reduce the weight of overly large breasts while addressing sagging (breast ptosis), physical discomfort, and skin irritation. The procedure involves removing excess breast tissue, skin, and fat to create a more balanced and comfortable appearance.
You may be a good candidate for breast reduction surgery if you are experiencing any of the following:
- You are unhappy with the size, shape, position or weight of your breasts
- You are concerned about the positioning of your nipples and would like them to sit at a more central location on your chest
- You have breasts that aren’t symmetrical (you may have one breast that is significantly larger than the other)
- You are experiencing physical pain and discomfort from large breasts such as neck or back pain or you suffer from chronic skin irritations
- Understand the risks, potential complications and limitations of breast reduction surgery
- You are in good overall mental and physical health
- You have realistic goals and expectations of breast reduction surgery
What is involved with breast reduction surgery?
Reduction Mammaplasty (breast reduction) surgery involves the removal of excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to create a smaller, more proportionate breast shape and profile. The type of incision used depends on the amount of reduction needed, breast shape, and existing skin elasticity.
Breast Reduction surgery involves raising and reshaping the breast tissue to address issues such as sagging (ptosis), excess breast skin and volume, and changes in breast shape and profile. There are different methods of performing a breast reduction with consideration of the patient’s natural anatomy and breastfeeding ability post-operatively, therefore the most suitable technique will be determined by the patient’s individual needs and personal preferences.
For women with breast ptosis – whereby the nipple sits below the inframammary fold, or points down, a mastopexy may be a suitable procedure to reposition the breasts and areola complex proportionate to the patient’s anatomy where there is minimal excess breast tissue. In cases of excess breast tissue, the nipple and areola will typically be repositioned and raised in proportion with the resized breast through a breast reduction procedure.
Following surgery, patients will be provided with specific post-operative aftercare instructions to support optimum healing and recovery. Our nursing team will be in touch the day after your surgery to check in on your recovery and answer any questions or concerns you may have following your procedure. Our patient care team will organise your follow-up care and complimentary review appointments to monitor recovery and address any concerns.
It is important for patients to follow post-operative care instructions to help aid a smooth recovery and to achieve the best possible results from their breast reduction procedure. Adherence to appropriate post-surgery care is essential for optimal healing and results.
Dr Philip Richardson 
Dr Milap Rughani 
