Understanding Breast Reduction Surgery (Reduction Mammoplasty)
Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of breast tissue and skin. The procedure is considered following consultation and clinical assessment, taking into account individual anatomy, medical history and symptoms.
Breast Reduction Surgery Overview
During consultation, discussion may include:
- The presence of excess breast tissue
- Breast size and weight in relation to individual anatomy
- Nipple position and breast symmetry
- Symptoms that may be associated with breast size
Suitability for breast reduction surgery, potential risks, recovery considerations and possible outcomes vary between individuals and are discussed in detail during consultation.
About Dr Rohit Kumar
Dr Rohit Kumar is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon who performs breast reduction surgery in Sydney, Penrith and Orange. All procedures are considered following consultation and individual clinical assessment.
For information regarding fees, please refer to our costs information page.
Suitability for Breast Reduction Surgery
Suitability for breast reduction surgery is determined following consultation and clinical assessment. Factors such as medical history, breast anatomy, symptoms and individual circumstances are considered.
Breast reduction surgery may be discussed for individuals who experience one or more of the following:
- Concerns related to breast size, weight or position
- Physical symptoms that may be associated with breast size, such as discomfort in the neck, shoulders or back
- Skin irritation or changes in the breast crease area
- Breast asymmetry
- Changes in nipple position
Breast reduction surgery may also be discussed in specific clinical circumstances, such as reconstructive procedures, following appropriate referral and assessment.
A consultation with Dr Rohit Kumar is required to determine whether breast reduction surgery is clinically appropriate for you, and to discuss potential risks, recovery considerations and possible outcomes, which vary between individuals.
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Breast Reduction Surgery Overview
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The Procedure
Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anaesthesia following consultation and clinical assessment. The duration of surgery varies depending on individual anatomy, the extent of the procedure and surgical planning.
Anaesthesia
Anaesthesia is administered by a qualified anaesthetist. The type of anaesthesia used is determined based on clinical considerations and discussed prior to surgery.
Incision Location
Incision patterns used in breast reduction surgery vary depending on factors such as breast size, shape and surgical approach. Common incision locations may include around the areola and along the breast crease. Incision placement is discussed during consultation.
Fat Grafting
In some cases, fat grafting may be discussed as part of breast surgery. This involves the transfer of fat from another area of the body. Suitability for fat grafting is determined during consultation.
Closing the Incisions
Following removal of breast tissue and skin, incisions are closed using appropriate surgical techniques. Post-operative wound care instructions are provided after surgery.
Risks and Complications
All surgical procedures carry risks. Potential risks and complications associated with breast reduction surgery are discussed during consultation and may include, but are not limited to:
- Infection
- Scarring
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation
- Breast asymmetry
- Bleeding or blood clots
- Delayed wound healing
- Fluid accumulation such as haematoma or seroma
- Potential impacts on breastfeeding
The likelihood and nature of risks vary between individuals and are discussed in detail during consultation.
Post-Operative Care and Recovery
Recovery following breast reduction surgery varies between individuals and depends on factors such as the extent of surgery, overall health and individual healing response.
Post-operative care instructions, including guidance on activity levels, garment use and follow-up appointments, are provided after surgery. Time away from work, exercise and daily activities is discussed during consultation and reviewed during follow-up.
Healing occurs gradually over time. Follow-up appointments are an important part of post-operative care.
Breast Reduction Surgery Costs
Following your initial consultation with Dr Kumar, you will be provided with a detailed itemised quote. This may include:
- Surgeon fees
- Anaesthetist fees
- Surgical assistant fees
- Hospital or operating theatre fees
Information about available payment options can be provided on request and discussed during consultation.
For more detailed information about fees, please visit our
cost information page.
Can private health insurance be used?
In some circumstances, private health insurance may contribute to certain costs associated with breast reduction surgery, particularly where the procedure meets relevant clinical criteria.
Hospital and operating theatre fees may be covered where an appropriate level of private health insurance is held. Medicare and private health insurance may also contribute to surgeon fees if eligibility requirements are met.
Coverage varies between individuals and insurance policies. Patients are encouraged to confirm eligibility and benefits directly with Medicare and their private health insurer.
Where applicable, a Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) item number may be discussed during consultation.
Download our Breast Reduction Guide
This complete guide to Breast Reduction Surgery covers everything you need to know about this procedure, including:
- Breast Reduction surgery explained
- How to assess if you are a candidate
- The surgical procedure
- Answers to some of our most frequently asked questions
- Before and after gallery
