Breast reduction

Reshape and reduce the size of large breasts not only improves your look but your lifestyle

  • Improvement in Breast Shape
  • Alleviate physical discomfort and back, neck shoulder pain.
  • Improved Self Esteem

Information

Excessively large breasts in relation to the size of their bodies can cause women to endure physical as well as emotional pain. Neck and back pain are common symptoms but the emotional and psychological effects run a lot deeper. Breast reduction surgery is a procedure to raise and reshape the breasts. In many cases breast reduction surgery can offer many benefits and improve the quality of life significantly.

There are four important parameters that define beauty of a breast:

  • Location on the chest wall
  • Proportions of the breast in relation to the torso
  • Aesthetically pleasing shape
  • Symmetry of both breasts in volume and shape

The challenge is that all these parameters are affected by large breasts and need to be addressed accordingly.

There are 3 parts to a breast that need to be considered in breast reduction surgery.

Breast Platform – the platform forms thwe natural foundation or footprint of the breast. The goal of breast reduction surgery is to return the breast mound back to its original position higher on the chest wall.

Breast Mound – this is the glandular tissue that forms the shape, projection and volume of the breast tissue on top of the platform. This is one of the most important parts of the operation as a pedicle is fashioned that keeps the nipple blood supply healthy.

Skin Envelope – after reshaping and repositioning the breast the skin envelope needs to be aesthetically fashioned to fit the new breast.

There are many techniques of performing a breast reduction. Dr Rajapakse usually performs a breast mound supero-medial pedicle mammoplasty and depending on the size of the reduction, a modern style vertical breast reduction procedure. This allows for a volume reduction, reshaping , nipple/areaola reduction and breast lift all in the one operation. More importantly all these changes are achieved with as small a scar as possible. Dr Rajapakse either uses a short vertical scar or commonly,, a small ‘T’shaped incision which is significantly smaller than the conventional anchor method.

Occasionally liposuction is applied to the lateral flanks and side boob is to improve contour of the side boob.

Dr Rajapakse is highly skilled in breast reduction surgery having trained in prestigious breast units in London and Europe.

If you would like to see an animation of this procedure please click here

Breast Reduction FAQs

Is it right for me?

Any of the following conditions may make you a candidate for breast reduction surgery

  • Breast too large in proportion to your body frame
  • Heavy pendulous breast with nipples pointing downward
  • Back shoulder or neck pain
  • Skin irritation or infections underneath breasts
  • Restrictions of physical activity due to the size and weight of your breast
  • Dissatisfaction or self-consciousness about th largeness of your breasts

As a highly qualified Plastic and Cosmetic Surgeon, Dr Rajapakse will determine whether you are a good candidate for Breast Reductions surgery.

If you are non smoker (or prepared to give up smoking at least 2 months prior and post surgery, your mentally and physically healthy an dyou understand the breast reduction surgical procedure you should qualify. Dr Rajapakse will discuss all these factor, an other relevant information including risks and complication of surgery, prior to your decision on Breast Reduction surgery.

Will I need anaesthesia?

Depending on the size and location of the skin lesion Dr Rajapakse performs surgery either under local anaesthesia with or without sedation or under general anaesthesia. Some procedures may be suitable for local anaesthetic and can be performed in the rooms.

If general anaesthesia or sedation is required Dr Rajapakse will engage the services of a qualified anaesthetist who is a fellow of the Royal Australian and NZ College of Anaesthetists (FRANZCA).

Your anaesthetist will ask you about all the medications that you are taking or have taken and any allergies that you may have.

Will there be scarring?

Unfortunately any cut on the skin will leave a scar. However plastic surgeons such as Dr Rajapakse are skilled in using the natural tissue tension lines to “hide scars” in cosmetic sensitive places and make them as inconspicuous as possible.

Dr Rajapakse will also provide you with a scar management protocol, and discuss the best options for you.

Scar Revision

Occasionally scars can appear thickened and red, sometimes causing itch and irritation. Everybody heals and forms scars differently and occasionally these scars can be large and unattractive. Dr Rajapakse uses cutting edge surgical and non-surgical techniques to minimise and improve the appearance of scars.

Where is the surgery taking place?

All surgeries are performed either as a day case or over night stay at reputable internationally accredited facility.

What is the recovery period?

Patients usually stay in hospital for 1 or 2 nights, until the drains are removed. Discoloration and swelling are to be expected for the first few weeks after surgery.

Post operative pain is usually limited and is well controlled with pain relief tablets. Your wounds will be covered with waterproof dressings so that you may shower as soon as you feel comfortable. You will be asked to wear a soft surgical bra for support and comfort during the first two weeks to allow healing of your breast into their new shape. Gentle stretching can prove beneficial and exercise such as walking can commence within seven days. Most people can return to work within 10 to 14 days unless their occupation involves strenuous movement, when 3 to 4 weeks is recommended. All heavy lifting should be avoided for the first 6 weeks.

Will I be able to breast Feed after a breast reduction?

After a breast reduction most women are still able to breast feed though this can not be guaranteed. If this is important to you please discuss this option with Dr Rajapakse, and he will make a decision on a procedure that will maximize this possibility.

Can my nipples lose sensitivity?

There is that possibility of sensory loss as most breast lifts involve incisions around the nipples.  Nerves do regain function, although the process is slow; therefore expect a period of at least two years before sensitivity returns to normal or near normal.  If this does not happen within that time, sensitivity will most likely not return..It is important that you understand and discuss these potential issues with Dr Rajapakse, before electing to have breast reduction surgery.

What are the costs?

You have the right to be informed about the costs associated with you surgery.

When choosing a surgeon for your cosmetic surgery, remember that factors such as surgeon’s training, qualifications, experience and your comfort them are just as important.

Costs associated with the procedure may include:

  • Dr Rajapakse’s surgical fee
  • One year of Surgical follow up
  • Accredited hospital facility cost
  • Anaesthesia fee
  • Prescription for medications
  • Post- surgery garments
  • Medical tests

After your consultation an informed financial consent will be sent as well as an information pack to read before the second pre-surgery appointment. This second optional appointment is complimentary and your preoperative photos and measurements for your compression bra’s will be taken at this time.

Send an enquiry or call (02) 8964 8090