Breast reduction 

About Breast reduction 

Why have a breast reduction?

Many women with large, heavy breasts experience a range of issues that affect their quality of life. These may include:

  • Neck, shoulder and back pain from the weight of the breasts.

  • Skin irritation or rashes under the breast fold, especially in hot weather.

  • Difficulty exercising or finding well-fitting bras, swimwear, and clothes.

  • Grooves from bra straps on the shoulder and back.

Breast reduction surgery is done to reduce the size and to improve the shape of the breasts. Breast reduction surgery can help by:

  1. Reducing breast volume to relieve discomfort.

  2. Lifting and reshaping the breast tissue.

  3. Tailoring the skin envelope to match the new breast size.

Whether large breasts are causing physical discomfort or aesthetic concerns, breast reduction surgery can help create a breast size that is more comfortable and in proportion with the rest of your body. Each procedure is individually tailored to your needs and personal goals. While most patients are very pleased with the outcome, it’s important to remember that results can vary depending on factors such as your anatomy, healing process, and overall health.

Surgery

  • You may be a good candidate for breast reduction surgery if:

    • You experience physical, emotional and social discomfort due to large breasts.

    • You have realistic expectations.

    • You are in good general health.

    • You are at or near a stable weight.

  • In planning for your surgery:

    • Consultation
      You will meet Dr Law in consultation. The consultation will begin with a conversation about your goals and expectations. Please bring any questions you may have. The procedure will be explained in detail - covering what it can and cannot achieve. Dr Law will also discuss the surgical process, possible risks, and complications.

    • Imaging
      Before breast reduction surgery, you will be referred for a mammogram or ultrasound.

    • Smoking
      Please stop smoking as soon as you are able to, as smoking increases the risk of complications from surgery. If possible, please stop smoking at least six weeks before your surgery.

    • You will be given instructions ahead of time regarding fasting, medications, and other practical information.

    On the day of surgery:

    • You’ll meet with a nurse, who will assess your health.

    • The anaesthetist will meet you and confirm your anaesthesia plan to make sure the procedure goes as smoothly and safely as possible.

    • Dr Law will see you to confirm the procedure again, take photographs, and draw markings on your skin to guide surgery.

  • Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited hospital.

  • The operation usually lasts around 3-4 hours.

    There are different techniques for performing breast reduction surgery, but the main steps involve:

    • Making the incisions
      Scars include one scar around the areola and one vertical scar down to the breast crease. In larger reductions, there may also be a horizontal scar along the crease, forming an "anchor" shape.

    • Removing excess tissue
      Excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are removed to reduce volume and improve breast shape. Liposuction may also be used to remove fat, especially from the sides of the chest.

    • Reshaping the breast
      The remaining breast tissue is lifted and reshaped to create a natural contour. The nipple and areola are usually lifted to a higher position while keeping their connection to blood supply and nerves.

    • Closing incisions
      The skin is redraped over the new breast shape. Incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches. Surgical dressings or tape are applied, and a surgical bra is usually worn to support healing.

    Dr Law aims to keep scars as short as possible while still achieving the desired results.

    Please note that for very large breasts, the nipple may need to be removed and grafted into place. However, this is very rare.

  • As you recover, you’ll need to wear a surgical bra for 6 weeks to support healing. You may also be advised to:

    • Avoid exercise and heavy lifting.

    • Refrain from smoking and alcohol.

    • Sleep on your back.

    • Avoid lifting your arms above shoulder height, especially in the early stages.

    • Comply with wound care which may involve keeping incision sites clean, using specific ointments or creams, and refraining from swimming, etc.

    • Attend follow-up appointments to check your healing and results.

Risks & complications

  • All surgery carries risks and may include:

    • Drug reactions: You can have reactions to anaesthesia. However a fully qualified anaesthetist will look after you during the surgery to ensure your anaesthetic will be as safe and smooth as possible.

    • Allergic reactions: Allergic reactions to materials such as sutures, dressings, or antiseptic solutions are possible. We will ask you about any known allergies beforehand to help avoid exposure during surgery.

    • Infection: You will be given antibiotics at the start of your surgery (as you go to sleep), as well as a course of oral antibiotics afterwards, to help minimise this risk. 

    • Bleeding and haematoma (blood clot): A bit of bleeding onto the dressing is common and usually stops on its own. There is a very small risk of blood clots, requiring drainage in the operating room.

    • Seroma (fluid collection): A pocket of fluid can occasionally collect in the breast after surgery. To help prevent this, a drain is occasionally inserted at the time of surgery.

  • Risks specific to breast reduction surgery will be discussed with you during your consultation and will also be provided in your consent paperwork. These include:

    • Nipple numbness: Temporary for most, but can be permanent in some patients (more likely with large reductions).

    • Nipple healing problems: Very rarely, part or all of the nipple may not survive.

    • Fat necrosis (lumps in the breast): Some breast fat may harden after losing its blood supply. Usually this resolves in 3–6 months.

    • Wound issues: Minor problems may occur where the vertical and horizontal scars meet.

    • Breast asymmetry: No two breasts are exactly the same, and perfect symmetry is rarely achievable. Some small differences in size or shape may remain after surgery. Minor corrections can be made later.

    • Too much/too little breast tissue is removed.

    • Poor scarring.

    • Breastfeeding: Some women are able to breastfeed after a breast reduction, but assume this is the exception rather than the rule. The ability to breastfeed depends on the remaining breast being connected to the nipple by the breast ducts and these ducts are usually cut during surgery.

Book your Appointment

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