If you feel that the size of your breasts is impacting on your quality of life then perhaps you could benefit from breast reduction or breast lift surgery.

WHY CONSIDER BREAST REDUCTION OR MASTOPEXY SURGERY?

Breast reduction surgery optimises breast size and volume and as in mastopexy surgery, optimises breast shape, projection and position of the nipple areola complexes to achieve aesthetic breast proportions.

A breast lift, also known as mastopexy surgery removes excess breast skin and reconfigures the breast tissue to increase firmness and improve breast shape thereby addressing breast "droop". The nipple areola complexes are repositioned in an ideal position to achieve aesthetic breast proportions. Breast lift surgery is sometimes considered in addition to breast augmentation surgery in order to optimise the result of breast enlargement.

Breast characteristics that can be addressed surgically include:

• Excess size and width in relation to body proportions
• Sagging and loss of fullness in the upper part of the breast
• Descent of the nipple areola complex

Patients seeking breast reduction and mastopexy surgery have typically experienced neck and shoulder pain, infections under their breasts, have limitations in clothing due to disproportionate breast size and are self-conscious of the appearance of their breasts.

THE SURGICAL PROCEDURE

These procedures are performed through access incisions around the nipple areola complexes and an incision extending vertically underneath. Occasionally a short transverse scar in the crease below the breast is also required. The most appropriate of these surgical access incisions will be discussed during your consultation.

The operation is performed using a variety of specialised techniques under general anaesthetic administered by Specialist Anaesthetists in an accredited hospital and overnight hospital stay of one or two nights may be required.

The internal wounds are repaired with dissolving stitches and water proof dressings applied which are suitable for patients to shower. A compressive garment or “boob tube” will be provided and is worn for approximately 3 weeks. You will then be provided with a brassiere which is worn until six weeks after surgery.

RECOVERY

The post-operative recovery period is approximately two to three weeks, during which the breasts can be swollen or bruised. Swelling typically improves over six to eight weeks after surgery. Whilst most patients are able to return to work within two weeks of surgery, overall improvement can be expected over a number of months. Advice will be provided with regard to scar maturation strategies and resumption of driving, typically around two weeks after surgery. Physical exercise can resume three to four weeks after surgery.

IMPORTANCE OF YOUR CONSULTATION

The aim of a consultation with your Surgeon is to discuss your expectations and identify potential limitations to achieving those expectations such as skin quality, breast anatomy and scarring from previous surgery.

Two or more consultations are often required prior to surgery to ensure a good understanding of procedure, the potential risks and complications, the likely results and the period of recovery and downtime required.

It is important that the Surgeon is made aware of previous surgery and history of scarring, along with significant medical history including a tendency for easy bruising and excessive bleeding, deep venous clots involving the legs, all prescription and non prescription medication, allergies to anaesthetic agents, antibiotics and dressings, history of smoking and any other notable health issues. These issues are important as they have the potential to affect the surgery, anaesthesia, potential complications and recovery. A history of Raynaud’s disease or conditions affecting the peripheral circulation is also significant.

Next Step

If you are considering a breast reduction or breast lift and have questions you would like to ask, or if you would like to book a confidential consultation (cost $140) with one of our highly qualified, experienced surgeons to see what can be achieved for your individual needs, simply click below or call (03) 9088 5000 for Melbourne or (07) 3180 3400 for Brisbane.