Breast Reduction

BREAST REDUCTION

Breast reduction surgery is a procedure designed to reduce the size and weight of large breasts. This surgery aims to achieve a breast size in proportion with your body and to alleviate the discomfort associated with overly large breasts.

Large breasts can cause both physical and emotional distress for patients. Physically, individuals may experience discomfort in the form of back and neck pain, skin irritation under the breast crease, and breathing problems.

The procedure involves the removal of excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to achieve a breast size more in proportion with your body and to alleviate the discomfort associated with overly large breasts. The goal is to give the woman smaller, better-shaped breasts in proportion with the rest of her body.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Good candidates for breast reduction surgery are those who are experiencing physical discomfort due to the size of their breasts. It’s important that candidates have realistic expectations about what the surgery can achieve.

You may be a suitable candidate for breast reduction if you:

• Are physically healthy and maintain a stable weight
• Have realistic expectations
• Experience back, neck, and shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breasts
• Have regular indentations from bra straps that support heavy, pendulous breasts
• Have skin irritation beneath the breast crease
• Find your breast size limits your physical activity

Breast reduction surgery can be performed at any age, but it is usually advised to wait until breast development has stopped. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can have significant and unpredictable effects on the size and shape of your breasts.

Breast reduction surgery has changed significantly over the past decade. The basis of Dr Watts’ technique is a vertical breast reduction procedure. This technique enables the ability to reposition the nipple areolar complex, reduce the breast volume and maximise the lift and breast shape while minimising the scar. This incision usually extends around the areolar with a vertical limb extending below the areolar. A short horizontal limb may be added within the breast crease but this is significantly shorter than traditional techniques. A traditional breast reduction is left for the largest of volume reductions and entails a longer horizontal extension. Regardless of which technique is required Dr Watts and his team will guide you through their postoperative protocol for scar management to speed healing and minimise scarring.

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

REDUCTION AND LIFT GALLERY

WHAT CAN A BREAST REDUCTION DO FOR ME?

• Reduce the size of the breasts
• Decrease the weight of the breasts and ease back, neck and shoulder pain
• Elevate the breasts
• Correct sagging and drooping
• Reposition the nipple and reshape the areola
• Improve breast symmetry and proportion
• Reduce skin rashes, infection and chafing under the breast

Dr Watts will often combine this procedure with liposuction to further contour and define the shape of the breast and reduce fullness under the arm.

BREAST REDUCTION PROCEDURE AND RECOVERY PERIOD

How Is the Surgery Performed?

Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and can take between two to three hours, depending on the extent of the reduction. The procedure involves several steps:

• Incision: Dr. Watts makes an incision around the areola, down each breast in the breast crease (inframammary fold). There are several incision patterns and techniques, which will be chosen based on your breast size and shape, the amount of reduction desired, and your personal preferences
• Removal of Tissue and Repositioning: Excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are removed to reduce the size of each breast. The nipple and areola are then repositioned to a different height. If necessary, enlarged areolas are reduced by excising skin at the perimeter
• Reshaping the Breasts: The underlying breast tissue is lifted and reshaped to improve breast contour and firmness
• Closing the Incisions: The incisions are brought together to reshape the now smaller breast. Sutures are layered deep within the breast tissue to create and support the newly shaped breasts
• Results: The results of breast reduction surgery are immediately visible. Over time, post-surgical swelling will subside, and incision lines will fade

Dr Watts performs his breast reduction procedure on an inpatient basis under general anaesthesia. The length of the procedure will depend on many factors, including surgical technique chosen, extent of correction and combination with other cosmetic procedures but on average will take 2-3 hours to complete. Comfortable dressings will be placed over the breasts and a firm supportive bra applied after the procedure. After surgery you will remain in overnight for closer observation and once recovered satisfactorily will be allowed to return home with a friend or family member.

Recovery after Breast Reduction Surgery

The recovery process following breast reduction surgery is crucial for achieving the best results:

• Initial Recovery: After the surgery, dressings will be applied to the incisions, and you may be required to wear a support bra to minimise swelling and support the breasts as they heal.
• Managing Discomfort: Pain and discomfort are common but can be managed with prescribed medication. It’s important to follow Dr. Watts instructions on how to care for your breasts post-surgery
• Activity Restrictions: You’ll need to limit physical activity for at least the first two weeks after surgery. Avoid lifting heavy objects and strenuous exercise until Dr. Watts advises that it’s safe to resume these activities. For most patients this is typically around 6 weeks after surgery.
• Follow-up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor your healing. Dr. Watts will advise when you can return to normal activities and work
• Long-term Care: The final results of your breast reduction will appear over the next few months as breast shape and position continue to settle

Written procedure specific information sheets will be given to you in order for you to prepare for your surgery and the recovery period. You may experience moderate discomfort after the procedure and so a postoperative analgesia regime will be tailored to meet your specific needs. In general, you can expect most bruising, tenderness and swelling of the breasts to settle within 2 weeks.

Dr Watts and his team are dedicated to providing ongoing care, support and guidance throughout your entire journey. They will be readily available to answer any further questions you may have to ensure a safe and smooth recovery. For more information please call our office to schedule a personal consultation with Dr Watts.

Breast Reduction Risks

Plastic surgery comes with inherent risks. While modern techniques and advancements have made these procedures safer than ever, it’s crucial for patients to be aware of potential complications and make informed decisions. Anaesthesia is used in most surgical procedures to ensure the patient’s comfort. However, in rare cases, it can lead to complications such as allergic reactions, lung infections, stroke, and even heart complications.

Also, keep in mind that all surgeries result in some form of scarring. While Dr. Watts often uses techniques to minimise and strategically place these scars, some patients might experience hypertrophic or keloid scarring, which is raised and more prominent. It’s essential for anyone considering plastic surgery to thoroughly research and understand these risks. Read more about risks and potential complications of plastic surgery.

FAQs about Breast Reduction Surgery

How long does it take to recover from breast reduction surgery?

• Full recovery can take several weeks, but most patients can return to work and light activities within 1-2 weeks.

Will there be scars?

• There will be scars, but they will significantly fade over time. The extent of scarring depends on the individual’s healing process and the surgical technique used.

Can I breastfeed after a breast reduction?

• Breastfeeding may still be possible after breast reduction, but it depends on the surgical technique used and individual circumstances.

What are the risks associated with breast reduction surgery?

• As with any surgery, there are risks such as bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anaesthesia. Specific risks related to breast reduction include loss of sensation in the nipples and difficulties in breastfeeding.

How do I know if I’m a good candidate for breast reduction?

• A consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is the best way to determine if you’re a suitable candidate. Factors include physical health, breast size and shape, and your expectations.

Medical References about Breast Reduction Surgery

• Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons – Breast Reduction
• Royal Australasian College of Surgeons – Patient Safety
• The Breast – Elsevier
• Mayo Clinic – Breast Reduction Surgery
• MedlinePlus – Breast Reduction

Next Steps on Your Plastic Surgery Journey 

PLEASE TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION

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