Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammaplasty)

Breast reduction reduces the size and weight of the breasts by removing excess skin, fat and glandular tissue, and reshaping the remaining tissue.

What is breast reduction?

Reduction mammaplasty reshapes large, heavy breasts to a smaller and lighter size in proportion with your frame. The procedure also lifts the breast and repositions the nipple-areola complex. Several techniques exist, differing in the pedicle used to maintain blood supply to the nipple and in the resulting scar pattern; Dr Doherty will discuss which is most appropriate for your anatomy and goals at consultation.

Who considers it?

Patients commonly seek breast reduction for:

• Back, neck and shoulder pain related to breast weight
• Skin irritation or rashes under the breast fold
• Difficulty exercising or finding well-fitting clothing
• A change in breast size and proportion

A Medicare rebate may apply for symptomatic patients who meet the item’s eligibility criteria; this is assessed at consultation.

Recovery

Most patients stay in hospital for one to two nights. Strenuous activity and lifting are restricted for approximately six weeks, and a supportive surgical bra is worn during early healing. Scars mature over 12–18 months — see the scar management guide.

Related: See our scar management guide for the post-operative healing timeline, the daily silicone-and-massage protocol, and when to be concerned about a scar.

Risks

Specific risks include adverse scarring, asymmetry, changes in nipple sensation, delayed wound healing (particularly at the T-junction of the incisions), partial or — rarely — complete loss of the nipple-areola, and effects on breastfeeding. These are discussed in detail at your consultation.

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