Breast reduction surgery, also called reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure that aims to reduce the size of the breasts. It involves removing fat and breast tissue, then reshaping the breasts to their new size. Patients may often opt for this procedure in an attempt to alleviate the pain or discomfort they may experience due to having heavy, large breasts. Having very large breasts has the potential to interfere with physical activities and lead to issues such as back pain, postural problems, deformities of the back and shoulders, skin irritation, rashes, and breast pain. Dr. Peter Randle is a qualified plastic surgeon who has produced excellent results for patients in Perth seeking breast reduction surgery.
What does a breast reduction procedure involve?
Broadly speaking, a breast reduction procedure involves removing excess breast tissue in order to reduce the overall size and weight of the breasts. This is done by making incisions into the breasts and then reducing the breast volume by removing skin, fat, and tissue until the breasts are brought down to the desired size. Typically, breast reductions will result in some level of scarring that fades over time.
Types of breast reduction procedures
There is a range of different techniques used for breast reductions. The technique that a surgeon will use will typically be based on factors such as a patient’s anatomy, the amount of breast tissue and skin that is being removed, and the desired outcome of the patient.
Liposuction breast reduction
One option for breast reduction surgery is liposuction. This is a less invasive option that results in less scarring on the breasts. However, this type of breast reduction surgery is not suitable for all patients. Liposuction is typically best for patients looking for a slight or moderate breast size reduction, a high level of skin elasticity, and breasts that contain a lot of fatty tissue.
Vertical or “Lollipop” breast reduction
A vertical breast reduction is utilised for patients who are seeking a moderate reduction in breast size. During a vertical breast reduction, two incision sites are made. One incision is around the areola’s edge, whereas the second one runs vertically from the bottom of the areola down to the breast crease. A vertical breast reduction aims to remove excess fat, skin, and breast tissue while reshaping the breasts. Some scarring will be present, but primarily in the area below the nipple.
Inverted-T or “Anchor” breast reduction
An Inverted-T breast reduction procedure requires the surgeon to make three separate incisions. The first is done vertically from the breast crease to the areola, another is done around the areola’s edge, and the final incision is made along the crease below the breast. The inverted-T technique is used to remove and reshape the highest amount of tissue compared to other procedures, making it common for significant breast size reductions. As a result, it tends to produce the highest level of scarring. However, the scars will typically fade quite well over the course of one or two years.
How to prepare for a breast reduction procedure
Before your breast reduction procedure, there are a few main steps that you can take to ensure the best chance of everything going smoothly. Firstly, you need to get a thorough medical assessment, including a physical exam and a look at your medical history. This will give your surgeon the best idea of how to proceed with the procedure. You may be required to adjust certain medications you are taking before the procedure. Additionally, an important step before any breast-related surgery is to get a baseline mammogram and one afterwards to see if there has been a potential change in the breast tissue. If you are taking anti-inflammatory medications regularly or smoking, you must stop this leading up to your procedure since they are blood thinners that may cause excessive bleeding. It’s also important to ensure that you have someone who can drive you home from your procedure. A more detailed list of preparatory steps will be provided by your surgeon.
Post-operative care for breast reduction surgery
There are a few main steps that need to be taken to ensure that recovery from a breast reduction procedure goes smoothly. In the period that follows your surgery, try to prioritise rest and minimise movement and strenuous activity. This will help your scars heal effectively. It will be some time before you can take on challenging exercise, but you may be allowed to go on short walks after a few weeks. You will be prescribed painkillers to help you deal with discomfort and potentially a surgical bra to provide compression. Your wounds must be kept clean and dry, since they can get infected directly after the surgery. The healing process also requires you to stay on top of your nutrition by eating good food, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol.
Breast reduction recovery time
The recovery time for breast reduction surgery is typically a few weeks. Discomfort may persist longer, but the majority of the pain should subside within this period. If you notice pain and discomfort for an extended period of time, it’s important to let your plastic surgeon know so that they may advise you on the best way to proceed.
Choosing a qualified surgeon for breast reduction in Perth
Dr. Peter is an experienced and fully-qualified specialist plastic surgeon (FRACS). He has undertaken comprehensive training, giving him the requisite skills to handle both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery for his patients. Every breast reduction procedure he oversees will be conducted in fully accredited surgical facilities. The process will begin with a consultation, where your medical history can be examined, and Dr. Randle can discuss your goals.
Dr. Peter Randle offers his patients a bespoke assessment that helps to determine the best way to proceed with the procedure. Alternative methods, such as a non-surgical option, may be explored when they are relevant to a patient’s goals. Contact us today and book your first consultation with Dr. Randle.
Frequently Asked Questions: Breast reduction
How much does a breast reduction procedure cost in Perth?
The exact cost of a breast reduction procedure in Perth may vary according to a range of different factors. If it is covered by your private health insurance, it may end up costing you significantly less. Factors like a specific surgeon’s fees, the number of consultations you have, details of your procedure, a patient’s breast size, and peripherally related medical fees like anaesthesia are important to be aware of. Discuss all of the potential costs with your surgeon so you can plan appropriately.
How long does breast reduction surgery take?
The breast reduction surgery itself will generally take somewhere between two and four hours. However, when you include the time spent from your initial checking in to the hospital to finally checking out, it may take several more hours. Additionally, the recovery time may take several weeks as well.
What are the main risks associated with breast reduction procedures?
While this is generally a safe procedure, there are potential risks if there are significant complications during your surgery. Many of the same risks as other invasive surgeries apply, including blood loss, infection and a negative reaction to receiving anaesthesia. Other effects to be aware of are temporary bruising, long-term scarring, damage to glandular tissue, problems breastfeeding in the future, asymmetry between breasts, and, in severe cases, loss of nipples or areola.
Does Medicare cover breast reduction surgery?
In some cases, breast reduction surgery may be covered by Medicare. It may be covered if it is causing pain, physical discomfort and mobility issues to a patient. Make sure to discuss this with an expert to be sure about whether it applies to your specific situation.
How long do the results of breast reduction last?
In terms of reducing the size and weight of the breast, they will often last a long time. However, if someone gains body fat in the future, then their breasts may again increase in size. Additionally, the shape of the breasts may change over time due to weight fluctuation, changes in skin elasticity, and age-related bodily changes.
What is the minimum age for a breast reduction procedure?
There is not strictly a ‘minimum age’ for a breast reduction procedure. Generally, it is advised to avoid breast reduction procedures while someone is still in the midst of breast development. However, it may be considered to relieve medical symptoms or consistent pain.
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