The most frequent operation I do is breast reduction.

Although large breasts may have appeal initially, however for some patients this is overcome by the reality of neck, shoulder and back pain; bra straps cutting into shoulders; repeated and frequent headaches; sweating and rashes under the breasts; difficulties in exercising and playing sport; other lifestyle issues.

Over the last 25 years, I have done breast reductions for patients aged 15 to 78. It is an operation where the likelihood of positive benefits is very high, and the possibility of significant adverse events is very low.

A bilateral breast reduction, in the hands of an appropriately trained and experienced specialist plastic surgeon, is an extremely safe and reliable operation. Significant complications are rare. The surgery addresses the excess skin, fat and glandular tissue, and symmetry can be greatly improved. The muscle is not touched and thus recovery is associated with little pain. It is common that nothing more than simple analgesia is required after the first post-operative day. Patients with desk jobs are usually able to return to work at one week or so.

The surgery can be done day only, depending on size, or with a one or two day hospital stay in the larger reduction patients. Fortunately, Medicare acknowledges the functional and medical benefits of breast reduction by providing rebates without any specific qualifying criteria.

In summary, breast reduction is a safe operation with not a long recovery period. It has enormous functional benefits, with excellent cosmetic side effects.

Important Note:

The content on our page in general in nature and does constitute medical advice. Any surgery or invasive surgery carries risks and has a recovery time. Please refer to the procedure page for detailed information.