Breast Reduction Surgery

Reduction Mammoplasty

Breast reduction surgery, also called reduction mammoplasty, is performed to reduce breast size, improve breast shape, and relieve physical discomfort associated with excessively large breasts. Many patients seek breast reduction surgery due to neck pain, shoulder discomfort, posture concerns, skin irritation, or difficulty with exercise and clothing. A consultation is necessary to assess your individual needs.

Important: In accordance with AHPRA guidelines, a minimum 7-day cooling-off period applies between your initial cosmetic surgery consultation and any procedure. The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results vary. A consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is required to discuss your suitability.

What may be addressed

  • Reduced neck and back pain
  • Improved physical activity and comfort
  • Better clothing fit
  • Relief from shoulder grooving
  • Improved breast symmetry and proportion

Who may be suitable

This procedure may be considered for patients who meet the following criteria. Suitability is highly individual and must be assessed through a consultation with Dr Anavekar.

  • Experience physical discomfort from large breasts
  • Have chronic skin irritation beneath the breasts
  • Feel self-conscious about breast size
  • Have stable weight and good overall health
  • Have realistic expectations regarding outcomes and scarring

The procedure

Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anaesthetic. The procedure involves removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin while reshaping the breasts and repositioning the nipples. The surgical technique varies depending on breast size, skin quality, degree of sagging, and desired outcome.

  • Performed under general anaesthetic
  • Excess breast tissue, fat, and skin removed
  • Breasts reshaped
  • Nipples repositioned
  • Surgical technique varies depending on individual anatomy and goals

Recovery

Recovery timeframes are approximate and vary between individuals. Dr Anavekar will provide personalised guidance on what to expect during your recovery.

1–2 weeks

Initial discomfort and swelling improve

2–4 weeks

Return to light activities

6 weeks

Resume most exercise

Several months

Final breast shape settles

Risks & considerations

As with all surgical procedures, breast reduction surgery carries risks. These will be discussed in detail during your consultation, and Dr Anavekar will explain how they apply to your individual circumstances. Potential risks include, but are not limited to:

  • Scarring
  • Changes in nipple sensation
  • Delayed wound healing
  • Asymmetry
  • Infection
  • Difficulty breastfeeding
  • Fat necrosis

Frequently asked questions

Will breast reduction leave scars?

Yes. Scars are expected following breast reduction surgery, though they generally fade over time. Scar characteristics vary between individuals.

Can I breastfeed after surgery?

Some women may still be able to breastfeed, though this cannot be guaranteed. This is an important consideration to discuss during your consultation if relevant to you.

Arrange a consultation

The right approach to any surgical procedure begins with a thorough, personalised consultation. Dr Anavekar will assess your individual circumstances and discuss all available options with you.

Book a ConsultationCall 03 9075 0005

Your Surgeon

Dr Namrata Anavekar

MBBS (Hons) · FRACS · Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Dr Anavekar is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons with international fellowship training in Switzerland and France, including experience with world-leading reconstructive and aesthetic surgical teams.

Learn more about Dr Anavekar →

Clinic Locations

Bulleen (Main)

26 Manningham Rd, Bulleen VIC 3105

Sunbury

Goonawarra Medical Centre, 1-5 Dornoch Dr, Sunbury VIC 3429

Educational information only: The content on this page is intended for general educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon.

Individual results vary: Surgical outcomes vary between individuals and depend on a range of personal factors. No specific outcome can be guaranteed.

Cooling-off period: In accordance with AHPRA guidelines, a minimum 7-day cooling-off period applies between an initial cosmetic surgery consultation and any procedure. No cosmetic surgery will be performed during or immediately after an initial consultation.

Take the first step

A consultation with Dr Anavekar is the first step in understanding whether breast reduction surgery may be appropriate for your individual goals and circumstances.