Breast Reduction

When you plan a breast reduction I strongly recommend that you are at your ideal weight for height before embarking on any surgery. Weight loss or gain after a breast reduction may alter the shape and size, adversely affecting the final outcome.

During your first consultation, we will discuss your expectations to find out what you would like to achieve. I will examine your breasts and discuss the types of reduction – both long and short scar techniques. The technique used will depend on your current breast size and shape and also on what size and shape you would like to be.

The procedure for breast reduction is performed under general anaesthetic.

I will make an incision around the areola and down the front of the breast. Then I will remove excess tissue, fat, and skin to resize and reshape the breast.  I will resize the areola and nipple if necessary, and lift them into position on the newly sized breast. I will then neatly stitch the incisions closed.

To prepare for breast reduction surgery, you may be asked to stop smoking for 2 – 4 weeks prior to the procedure. Nicotine retards the healing process, and quitting for as long as possible before surgery helps improve blood flow.

You might also have to have a blood test before surgery is performed.

During the consultation be sure to disclose what medication, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. I may need to adjust this leading up to surgery. You should avoid certain medications like aspirin and some anti-inflammatory drugs. You may also need to stop taking some vitamins and supplements. Avoid any recreational drugs.

Be sure to arrange for transport to and from the clinic. You will not be able to drive yourself after the procedure.

After breast reduction surgery you can expect to have gauze dressings over the incisions, and you will have elastic bandages or a support bra to help with the swelling as you heal. You may also need small drainage tubes for a few days.

Keep the dressing dry for at least 48 hours. The stitches along the incision lines will dissolve on their own. Avoid hot baths, hot tubs for about 6 weeks. Swimming is generally fine after 2 – 3 weeks.

Your scars may be red and lumpy at first but should fade over time. There may be some swelling but the size difference should still be noticeable from the beginning.

Expect to take at least two weeks off work. You may need help with daily activities and regular chores like housework and childcare. Wearing a seatbelt may cause pain, so avoid driving for the first few weeks. I will advise you on how soon you can return to your regular activities.

The risks of breast reduction include a decrease in nipple sensation due to the repositioning and resizing of the nipple. This affects a vast majority of patients following a breast reduction.

You are extremely unlikely to be able to breastfeed after a breast reduction. Pregnancy will also alter breast size and shape after a reduction. I highly recommended that, if possible, you complete your family before considering a reduction. However, some women in their late teens have extremely large breasts necessitating the procedure despite the above-mentioned problems.

Other risks include excessive scarring, asymmetry, skin discoloration, and poor healing of incisions. Pain or numbness can also be experienced, but this is usually temporary.

During your consultation, we will discuss the risks and concerns.