You can expect a vertical scar down from the bottom of the areolar/nipple toward the crease under the breast, and in some patients a short scar underneath the breast too.

All of these scars usually heal very well and fade to a pale, fine line over a year or so. Some patients do have dark, raised and wide scars – this is unpredictable in general but can often be revised and improved after a few months.

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Breast reductions are performed under a general anaesthetic in a day surgery hospital. You can go home a couple of hours after the operation if you’re feeling alright after a period of observation.

Usually, pain is manageable and can be controlled with standard pain relievers. Drains are not routinely used, and dressings are minimal so that a shower can be taken the day after surgery. Sutures are dissolving, so they do not need to be removed.

After about a week, most women can return to work if they feel comfortable.

There is usually swelling and bruising in the first few weeks as the tissues heal. This settles gradually and is usually minimal by about a month after the operation.

For the first four weeks, a support bra should be worn, and no activities should be undertaken that bounce the breast, such as aerobics or jogging. After this time, you can gradually resume normal activities.

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In general, it is not a particularly risky operation. However, it does present the same types of potential complications as any operation, such as bleeding, infection, scarring, reaction to the anaesthetic or medications, asymmetry, cosmetic result and pain.

The vast majority of patients are very happy with the result. Some need to have further operations to improve the result, as with any procedure.

It is normal to have a difference between sides of the body – we are all asymmetrical and imperfect before any operation, and this will be the case afterwards.

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Provided that overall health is good, breast reduction is generally performed for women with large breasts and wants them reduced in size. It can occur before or after having children, but it may reduce a woman’s ability to breastfeed.

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For some women, there may be a Medicare rebate applicable; this can be determined during your consultation.

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If you would like to make an appointment for a consultation, please contact us on 1800 745 536.

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