Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure performed to reduce the size and volume of the breasts.
It may be undertaken for medical reasons, such as alleviating neck or back pain, or for aesthetic considerations. The procedure involves removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin, resulting in a smaller breast size.
Surgical Techniques for Breast Reduction
The two common breast reduction surgery techniques are the anchor incision (inverted-T or Wise pattern) and the circum-vertical (lollipop or vertical) incision. With both techniques, the nipple-areolar complex (NAC) is moved to its new position, carefully preserving its blood supply, and the reduced volume of breast tissue is mobilised, shaped, and repositioned.
1. Anchor Incision Technique
- Incision Pattern: This technique uses three incisions: one around the areola, a vertical incision from the areola to the breast crease, and a horizontal incision along the inframammary fold, creating an anchor or inverted-T shape.
- NAC Movement: The NAC is moved to a higher position on the breast. The NAC remains attached to a pedicle (a stalk of tissue) to preserve blood supply and sensation.
- Indications: This method is especially suitable for women requiring significant breast reduction and lift, as it allows for extensive tissue removal and reshaping.
2. Circum-Vertical (Lollipop) Technique
- Incision Pattern: This approach involves a circular incision around the areola and a vertical incision from the areola to the inframammary fold, resembling a lollipop.
- NAC Movement: The NAC is also elevated to a new, higher position. The NAC is typically kept attached to a tissue pedicle, ensuring its viability and maintaining sensation.
- Indications: The circum-vertical technique is best for moderate reductions and for patients who desire less visible scarring. It is less invasive than the anchor technique but still allows for effective reshaping and elevation of the NAC.
Based on the size, shape and volume of reduction, your plastic surgeon will plan the technique suitable for you.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Breast reduction surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia as a day procedure or with an overnight hospital stay, depending on the extent of the surgery and individual recovery needs. The surgical steps may include:
- Incisions around the areola and possibly vertically down the breast and along the crease.
- Removal of excess tissue and skin.
- Reshaping and lifting of the remaining breast tissue.
- Repositioning of the nipple, which may remain attached to underlying tissue or be grafted in more complex cases.
Silicon drainage tubes may be put in for 24-48 hours to help drain any blood and exudate from the breast tissue. Your surgeon will explain the specific technique suitable for your needs during your consultation.
Potential Benefits of Breast Reduction
The outcomes of breast reduction surgery can vary between individuals. Some reported benefits may include:
- Relief from neck, shoulder, and back pain.
- Reduced skin irritation beneath the breasts.
- Easier participation in physical activities.
Results will depend on factors such as surgical technique, healing process, and your body’s response to the procedure.
Breast Reduction Surgery - Risks and Considerations
Modern surgery is generally safe, but as with any surgical procedure, breast reduction surgery carries risks. These include infection, scarring, and changes in sensation. Rare complications may involve changes in nipple sensation or poor wound healing. Working with a certified and experienced plastic surgeon significantly minimises these risks. For a list of general and specific risks and complications associated with plastic surgery and breast reduction, please click here to download.
During your consultation, your ASPC surgeon will talk about possible risks and complications. It's essential to grasp these factors before making a decision to proceed with any surgical procedure. Any concerns should be communicated to the team at ASPC.
Breast Reduction Surgery - Recovery and Aftercare
Following surgery, patients may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. A post-surgical bra or compression garment may be recommended for 6-8 weeks to support healing. General recovery timelines may include:
- First Week: Rest and limited movement. Dressings and drains (if used) are usually removed within a few days.
- 2–6 Weeks: Gradual return to light activities. Heavy lifting or strenuous exercise should be avoided.
- 3–6 Months: Ongoing healing. Scars may begin to soften and fade.
- 12 Months: Final results are typically evident.
Scar care is recommended based on your individual healing process, and underwire bras are to be avoided for about 3 months to prevent irritation of the scar under the breast. Your surgeon will provide personalised instructions to support recovery.
Who Might Be Suitable for Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction may be considered by individuals who:
- Experience physical discomfort due to large breasts
- Are in good general health
- Have realistic expectations about surgical outcomes
- Are not planning significant weight changes or pregnancies in the near future
A consultation with a registered specialist plastic surgeon is necessary to determine if breast reduction is appropriate for your situation and explain potential outcomes and risks.
Q: Will there be visible scars?
A: Yes. Scarring is a part of breast reduction surgery, though techniques aim to minimise and conceal scars as much as possible. Scars typically fade over time.
Q: Can breast reduction impact breastfeeding?
A: Possibly. While some women retain the ability to breastfeed, this is not guaranteed.
Q: Are the results permanent?
A: Breast reduction results are long-lasting but may be affected by weight changes, pregnancy, or ageing.
Q: Is breast reduction surgery covered under Medicare?
A: Medicare covers a portion of breast reduction surgery costs if the procedure is deemed medically necessary rather than purely cosmetic. This means you must show that large breasts are causing significant physical health problems, such as chronic neck, back, or shoulder pain, persistent skin irritations, or other medically documented symptoms that affect your quality of life.
Q: Is breast reduction surgery covered by my health fund?
A: Private health insurance may cover additional costs if the procedure is considered medically necessary and is approved with a Medicare item number. Many hospital policies include breast surgery, but coverage varies. You must check that your policy specifically covers this procedure.
Important Note
Surgical outcomes can vary significantly between individuals. Any before-and-after images or descriptions of outcomes (not included here) are not indicative of what every patient may achieve. Only a consultation with an RACS Certified plastic surgeon can determine whether breast reduction surgery is suitable for you.
Deciding on breast reduction surgery is a personal choice that’s best made with a full understanding of the potential benefits, limitations, and risks. Our surgeons at Advanced Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery provide evidence-based guidance and a transparent consultation process to help you make an informed decision. If you would like to explore whether breast reduction surgery is suitable for you, we encourage you to arrange a consultation with our team.