Breast Reduction (Mammoplasty)

Breast Reduction surgery (Mammoplasty) is performed to reduce the size of large, heavy breasts. Large breasts can be just as disturbing to a woman as very small breasts, not only because of the embarrassment about the size and unwanted attention, but also due to the physical problems.

There can be pain in the breasts, particularly around menstruation, as well as back pain, shoulder ache, irritation of the skin between and beneath the breasts and disturbed sleeping. There are also lesser problems such as the need for special, supportive underwear that is often expensive, and difficulty in finding clothes that fit correctly, especially dresses. This operation can bring enormous relief to women through the physical, medical and emotional benefits.

Breast Reduction surgery is performed under general anaesthetic and requires a 1 or 2 night stay in the Hospital. Incisions are made around the nipple, in a vertical line underneath it and sometimes horizontally along the crease of the breast. The excess skin and breast tissue are removed and smaller, younger profile breasts are created. The nipple is relocated much higher on the breast to match the new contours. The scarring around the nipple and the crease of the breast will gradually soften, fade and be concealed well, however, they will be permanent. The surgery takes 2-3 hours.

For several months there may be numbness in the skin on the breast and the nipples. After the operation the sensation is greatly reduced but it will return very gradually. Breastfeeding is not usually possible after a reduction because of the damage to milk ducts and glands