Breast reduction surgery is a treatment that involves reducing the size, and typically, altering the shape of the breasts.

Most commonly, this surgery is sought after to help alleviate pain and improve performance ability for daily activities. If you’re seeking a reduction procedure, read on to find out what you should know about it.

Reasons to get a breast reduction

There are usually several reasons why someone is considering a breast reduction, and in most cases, it is because they are seeking to fix most, if not all, of these issues:
  • Relieve chronic neck and back pain
  • Help improve posture
  • Obtain a breast size which is more proportionate to the body
  • Help improve the ability to exercise, run, and jump
  • Make it easier to find proper bras and clothes that fit
Although there is no guarantee that a breast reduction surgery can completely fix all of these issues, it can certainly help improve them. A reduction is a highly individualised procedure as each patient is shaped differently, experiencing different levels of symptoms, and seeking different outcomes. Therefore, to get a more accurate analysis on what this procedure could improve for you, it is highly recommended that you go in for a consultation.

Surgical procedure

A breast reduction procedure entails a 2-3 hour procedure involving:
  • Breast tissue, glandular tissues, fat, and excess skin is excised
  • Breasts are remodeled, the nipple is repositioned, and the breasts are sutured together
  • Dressings and drains are applied
Associate Professor Dean White is a highly-skilled plastic surgeon and is committed to providing a natural-looking but aesthetically gratifying outcomes for his patients. The minimal scar technique that Mr White uses for most breast reductions eliminates the long horizontal scar beneath the breast. You may also discuss scarring options with Mr White prior to the procedure. Following this, is the recovery period which entails:
  • 1-2 night’s stay in the hospital following the procedure
  • A gradual increase of mobility and comfort, generally where you’re back to normal day-to-day activities at 2 weeks
  • 2-3 weeks off work
  • No heavy lifting or exercise for 6 weeks
  • 1 week after, 6 weeks after, and 12 months after, post-op check-ups with Mr White

Are there alternatives for breast reduction surgery?

Alternatives for breast reduction surgery are not always feasible if breasts are severely oversized. However, some alternative methods are:
  • Diet and exercise targeting fat loss (not usually effective)
  • Using professionally fitted bras to change the natural shape and appearance of breasts
  • Liposuction, however, this is not an adequate method as it does not address excess skin and will most likely lead to saggy breasts.

Risks to consider

Every surgery carries risks. All surgery is a balance between realistic surgical goals and knowledge of the possible risks and complications.   Risks are minimised by careful patient selection and planning, high standards of surgical training, meticulous surgical techniques and vigilant post-operative care.   Possible risks for this surgery include:  
  • Anaesthetic reactions
  • Bleeding or infection
  • Deep venous thrombosis/pulmonary embolus
  • Scarring
  • Altered nipple sensation
  • Ability to breastfeed after surgery may be affected

Consultation with Dean White Plastic Surgery in Melbourne

If you are considering a breast reduction in Melbourne, book an initial consultation with Associate Professor Dean White. During this meeting, you and Mr White will have the opportunity to discuss your individual circumstances including your current issues and future goals. Together, you will be able to figure out what outcomes are realistic for your body and what are the next steps to take. It is also important to know that you will receive a trustworthy opinion from a highly qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to contact one of our friendly team members on (03) 9895 7631 to discuss.