Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery Sydney

Reduction Mammoplasty

Large breasts can literally be a pain in the neck. In addition, they can cause back pain, reduce your ability to exercise, lead to skin irritation, even make it difficult to breathe. In short, breasts that are too large for your body can make you feel both physically and socially uncomfortable.

Breast reduction surgery – reduction mammoplasty – aims to give you smaller, firmer, better-shaped breasts, which are in proportion to the rest of your body. It will also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple.

The benefits on your quality of life can be enormous.

Short-scar Breast Reduction

Minimal scarring is usually an important outcome for anyone undergoing surgery.

Dr Hunt trained specifically in the United States in the technique of short-scar breast reduction. Some patients are good candidates for a short-scar breast reduction, while others are better suited to a more traditional operation. Dr Hunt will be able to discuss with you whether a short-scar technique is suitable for you after the examination of your breasts.

Considering Breast Reduction?

There are some common questions that many people who are contemplating breast reduction ask, such as:

Is it for me?
Breast reduction can achieve many goals beyond simply smaller breasts. Dr Hunt is a very experienced surgeon and he can provide you with relevant advice that can assist your decision.

What happens at the first consultation?
During the first consultation with Dr Hunt, you will discuss the surgery, your concerns and expectations. Your breasts will be examined for any areas of concern and then measurements will be taken to allow for adequate planning of your surgery.

Dr Hunt will then discuss the appropriate surgical procedure specifically designed to give you the result you desire.

At the end of the consultation pictures will be taken for your medical record.

After the consultation, Dr Hunt's assistant will prepare a quote that will include your surgical, anaesthetic, and hospital fees.

What's involved?
Breast surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic, given by an anaesthetist, in an accredited hospital, so you are assured of the highest standard of care.

The surgical techniques used for breast reduction vary, but the most common procedure involves and upside down T-shaped incision that circles the areola, extends downward, and follows the natural curve of the crease beneath the breast. The nipples are then moved into their new position and the skin from both sides of the breast is brought down and around the areola, shaping the new contour of the breast. Liposuction may be used to remove excess fat from the armpit area.

In most case, the nipples remain attached to their blood vessels and nerves. However, if the breasts are very large or pendulous, the nipples and areolas may have to be completely removed and grafted into a higher position. This will result in a loss of sensation in the nipple and areolar tissue.

Occasionally, when only fat needs to be removed, liposuction alone can be used to reduce breast size, leaving minimal scarring.

After surgery a drain will be inserted into each breast, and you will wear a surgical bra with gauze over your incisions, as a dressing.
When can I go home?
You will stay in hospital for at least one night following surgery. This allows for close monitoring of your drains, optimal pain control and a good nights rest. Once you are comfortable and able to get to and from a bathroom you will go home.

When you go home you should limit your movements to around the house for 2 to 3 days to minimise pain.

When you are discharged you will be given prescriptions for antibiotics and for pain medication to minimise your discomfort.

You will have to measure and record the amount of fluid collecting in your drains twice a day, and give this information to Dr Hunt at your first post-operative visit.

You should take only the pain medication prescribed, and eat before you take it or it might upset your stomach.

Eat lightly for 3 to 4 days after surgery and then resume your normal diet. Make sure you get plenty of fluids.
Will I have to return for post-operative care?
You will return to see Dr Hunt a few days after your surgery. He will remove the drains and, if necessary, change the dressing.

During this visit your post-operative care will be reinforced and any necessary changes made. You will return for follow-up visits at:

    * 2 weeks
    * 6 weeks
    * 3 months
    * 6 months
    * 12 months.

How long will I be off work?
You should plan on taking at least 2 weeks off work.
When can I resume my normal activities?
You will feel tired and sore for 1 to 3 days after your surgery.

You will need help at home for several weeks.

You should restrict all physical activity for at least 2 weeks.

Do not lift anything over 5kg and do not drive.

You will be able to shower the day your drains are removed.

You can return to normal activities after 2 weeks.

You must protect your breasts from stretching activities for at least 6 weeks to allow the incisions to heal.

Take the next step. If you're ready to learn more about breast reduction, or take that step toward an improved quality of life click the button below to make an appointment to see Dr Jeremy Hunt