Breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) has one of the highest satisfaction rates of all plastic surgery operations. Breast reduction decreases the volume and weight of your breasts and helps to shape them at the same time.
Reduction Mammoplasty
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Is this surgery right for me?
Women who are interested in this operation have typically had large, heavy breasts which cause them pain – most commonly neck pain, back pain, and shoulder pain. Some people have had large breasts for their whole life, and others have noticed that their breasts have grown during pregnancy/breastfeeding, but not returned to their normal size afterwards.
Exercise or physical activity can be difficult, and some women find their bra cuts in to their shoulders. It may be difficult to find clothing that fits properly, as the breasts may be out of proportion to the rest of their body.
Some women have significant breast asymmetry, with one breast larger than the other, and may be interested in having a reduction on one side to match their other breast.
What does the procedure
journey look like?
To begin your journey at Tailored Plastic Surgery, you will typically have an initial consultation to discuss your goals and see how we can help you. After a second consultation and a cooling-off period of one week, if you wish to proceed, we will schedule the surgery on a date that suits you. We will discuss the steps you need to take in the lead-up to your surgery, and also on the day of your procedure.
Most people feel the difference in their breast volume immediately after their operation, and have little pain. The night after your procedure and the day after you may experience some discomfort in the breasts. You will be wearing a post-operative surgical bra and have instructions for medications to take at home, and exercises to perform. You should be able to go home that same day. You should be able to return to work within two weeks depending on what your regular occupation is. We advise against strenuous physical activity and exercise within the first six weeks.
It is important to remember that with all surgical procedures, there will be swelling immediately after the operation, and it will only be with a little time, that the final results become apparent.
Procedure Risks
Reduction mammoplasty, also known as breast reduction surgery, aims to reduce the size and reshape the breasts. In addition to general surgery risks, potential risks associated with this procedure may include:
Capsular Contracture:
The formation of a thick scar tissue capsule around the breast implant, leading to breast deformity, pain, and asymmetry.
Breast Implant Rupture:
Rarely, breast implants may rupture, causing asymmetric breasts and deflation on the affected side.
Breast Implant Malrotation or Malposition:
The rotation or migration of the implant from its original position, resulting in breast deformity and unevenness.
Loss of Sensation:
Nerve injury during surgery can result in temporary or permanent loss of sensation in the nipple or a patch of breast skin.
Inability to Breastfeed:
Damage to the milk ducts during breast surgery may affect the ability to breastfeed. It is important to discuss this risk with your surgeon and consider the best procedure option for your individual situation.
Risk of BIA-ALCL:
Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is an extremely rare type of cancer that arises from immune cells around the implant. It is primarily associated with textured implants. Treatment typically involves implant removal and sometimes en-bloc capsulectomy.
Additional Risks:
These may include the risk of BII (Breast implant illness) or pneumothorax (intraoperative complication)
Still unsure? Here are some FAQs..
Is this surgery right for me?
Most women who are interested in this operation have had normal or heavy breasts which have deflated in volume, possibly after childbirth, and are saggy or ptotic. Their breasts may not fill their bra cup, or may fill them in a bra but be quite different out of a bra. Women considering this procedure are often looking to reposition their breasts (to lift them), and may be looking to restore cleavage or fullness at the top of the breasts.
What size should I be after a breast reduction?
Whilst it is very difficult to predict exactly what size you'll be after a breast reduction, it is a good idea to think about what your ideal cup size might be. It is important to try to keep your breasts in proportion with the rest of your body, and aim for a cup size that will suit your shape.
Do I still need to check my breasts regularly after a breast reduction?
Even though the amount of breast has been reduced, we still recommend regular breast checks and screening. All the usual screening tools are still able to be used after you have had a breast reduction.
What scars are there with a breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty)?
Breast reduction can be performed using a lollipop incision (vertical scar reduction) or an inverted-T or anchor incision (Wise pattern reduction). Factors that may influence the decision to choose one incision over another include the amount of excess skin and excess breast tissue you have, your body’s tendency to form good or bad scars, and personal preference. There are advantages and disadvantages for either of these methods, and we at Tailored Plastic Surgery are happy to explain these to you and what best suits you.
Can I have a breast reduction at the same time as liposuction?
Breast reduction can be performed alone or with liposuction. The breast reduction is able to remove skin, fat and breast tissue from certain areas of the breast. Liposuction may help with contouring of your breasts.