BREAST REDUCTION

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is designed to remove excess breast tissue, fat and skin to achieve a breast size that is more proportionate to your body frame. For many women, disproportionately large breasts (macromastia) cause chronic back, neck and shoulder pain, deep grooves and skin irritation from bra straps, rashes beneath the breasts, postural strain and restricted participation in exercise and daily activities. Beyond the physical toll, large breasts can make finding comfortable, well-fitting clothing and supportive bras a daily challenge.

Breast reduction is one of the most established procedures in reconstructive and aesthetic breast surgery, and for many patients it is undertaken for medical rather than cosmetic reasons. Depending on your circumstances, the procedure may be eligible for a Medicare rebate and a contribution from private health insurance. Whether surgery is suitable for you, and whether it is likely to be considered medically indicated, is assessed by Dr George at consultation.

Your surgeon: Dr Robert George, MBBS MS FRACS:

Breast reduction at our North Sydney practice is performed by Dr Robert George, a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) who regularly manages complex breast surgery cases. Dr George plans each reduction around your anatomy, tissue quality, nipple position and the degree of reduction required, with the aim of achieving a natural breast shape, preserving nipple sensation where possible and keeping scarring as discreet as the technique allows. His priority is that surgery is safe, appropriate and tailored to your needs, and that you feel informed and supported at every stage, from the first consultation through to recovery.

What breast reduction is intended to help with:

Relief from chronic back, neck and shoulder pain related to breast weight
Reduced skin irritation, grooving and discomfort from bra straps
Fewer rashes, chafing or skin infections in the breast fold
Greater ease and comfort during exercise, sleep and daily activity
Improved proportion and balance between breast size and body frame
Correction of significant asymmetry where one breast is much larger than the other
Easier access to comfortable, well-fitting clothing and supportive bras

The degree of relief varies between individuals and cannot be guaranteed. Dr George will discuss what is realistic for you at consultation.

A personalised, supported journey:

Every breast reduction with Dr George begins with a comprehensive consultation rather than a fixed plan. From your first enquiry you will be supported by Renee, our Patient Care Coordinator, or our medical team who helps you prepare for your consultation, answers practical questions between appointments and coordinates your pre-operative and post-operative care through to your final review.

The consultation process

Enquiry and GP referral. A referral from your GP is required before your consultation. Your GP can also document the symptoms you have experienced and any treatments you have already tried, which is important if your surgery may qualify for a Medicare item number.
Initial consultation with Dr George. Dr George takes a full medical and breast history, examines and measures your breasts, discusses the size and shape you have in mind, and explains the surgical options, benefits, limitations and risks relevant to you. Consultation fees are payable at the time of booking.
Assessment and second consultation. Where surgery is being considered for cosmetic reasons, the Medical Board of Australia's cosmetic surgery guidelines apply, including a screening assessment for body dysmorphic disorder and a second consultation. Dr George will explain how your case is classified.
Cooling-off period. A minimum seven-day cooling-off period applies between your final consultation and surgery. Patients under 18 are not treated.
Surgery and recovery. Your procedure is scheduled once informed consent is complete, with Renee and Dr George's team supporting you through preparation, surgery day and recovery.

Important information:

Breast reduction is a surgical procedure and, like all surgery, carries risks. These may include bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, changes in or loss of nipple sensation, partial or complete loss of the nipple, asymmetry, visible scarring, fat necrosis, reduced ability to breastfeed, and the need for further surgery. Results vary from person to person and no specific outcome can be guaranteed. A consultation with Dr George is necessary to determine whether this procedure is suitable for you.

Before and After Sample Image

This is a sample image of before and after face wrinkles treatment.

Breast reduction is performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited facility and usually involves a day or overnight stay. The details below are a general guide; your own surgical plan will be confirmed with Dr George.

Where is the surgery performed?
Surgery is performed in a licensed and accredited surgical facility with a specialist anaesthetist present throughout. Some patients stay one night in hospital, although some are able to go home the same day.

What happens on the day of surgery?

You will be admitted, reviewed by the anaesthetist and seen by Dr George, who confirms the plan and completes surgical markings with you standing. The procedure typically takes two to four hours depending on the size of the reduction and whether both breasts are treated equally. You are monitored in recovery before being transferred to the ward.
Incision techniques:
Dr George selects the technique based on your breast size, the degree of reduction and how much lifting is needed.

The most common approaches are:
-Vertical (lollipop) technique: an incision around the areola and vertically down to the breast fold. Suited to small to moderate reductions.
- Inverted-T (anchor) technique: an incision around the areola, vertically down to the fold and along the breast fold. Suited to larger reductions where more skin needs to be removed.
-Periareolar technique: an incision around the areola only. Suitable only for very small reductions in selected patients.
Each technique leaves permanent scars that fade over time. The likely pattern and appearance of your scars will be shown to you at consultation.
What is removed and how is the breast reshaped?
Excess breast tissue, fat and skin are removed, the remaining tissue is reshaped to create a smaller, lifted breast, and the nipple and areola are repositioned higher on the breast. In most cases the nipple remains attached to its blood and nerve supply (a pedicle). The areola may also be reduced in size if it has stretched.
Free nipple graft In very large reductions, or where the nipple must be moved a long distance, the nipple and areola may need to be removed and replaced as a skin graft. This preserves the appearance of the nipple but results in loss of sensation and the ability to breastfeed. Dr George will tell you in advance if this is likely to be required.

Will liposuction be used?
Liposuction may be used alongside surgical reduction to refine the outer breast and sides of the chest, or in selected patients as a standalone technique for a modest reduction. Dr George will advise whether this is appropriate for you.

Will I have drains or dressings?
Drains are sometimes used for larger reductions and are usually removed before you leave hospital or at your first review. You will go home with dressings in place and a post-surgical support bra, to be worn as directed.
Is removed tissue examined?
Yes. Tissue removed during breast reduction is routinely sent for pathology examination. Dr George will discuss the results with you at your post-operative review.

Following Dr George's instructions before and after surgery reduces the risk of complications and supports healing. You will receive written instructions specific to you, and Renee is available to answer questions throughout your recovery.

-Before surgery Stop smoking and vaping for the period Dr George advises, as nicotine significantly increases the risk of wound healing problems and nipple complications after breast reduction
-Tell Dr George about all medications and supplements you take. Some may need to be paused, but only on medical advice
-Aim to be at a stable weight before surgery Avoid alcohol in the days leading up to surgery
-Arrange for a responsible adult to take you home and stay with you for the first 24 to 48 hours
-Prepare your home with easy meals, loose front-opening clothing and any prescribed medications
-Complete any requested blood tests or imaging before your surgery date Follow the fasting instructions provided by the facility.
-The first week after surgery Expect swelling, bruising, tightness and discomfort, managed with prescribed pain relief
-Wear your support bra day and night as directed Keep dressings clean and dry until your first review
-Sleep on your back with your upper body elevated Avoid lifting, pushing, pulling or raising your arms above shoulder height
-Do not drive until you are off prescription pain medication and can move comfortably

Wound care:
The junction of the vertical and horizontal incisions (in the anchor technique) is the area most prone to delayed healing. Report any wound separation, increasing redness or discharge promptly. Do not soak in baths, pools or spas until Dr George confirms the incisions have healed.

Returning to work and exercise:
Most patients return to desk-based work within two to three weeks. Physically demanding work may require four to six weeks. Light walking is encouraged from the first days, while upper-body exercise, running and high-impact activity are usually avoided for around six weeks, or as advised by Dr George. Recovery times vary between individuals.

Scar care:
Once incisions have healed, Dr George may recommend silicone-based scar therapy and strict sun protection for at least twelve months. Scars typically continue to soften and fade for up to two years, and their final appearance depends on your skin type and healing. Renee will review your scars and provide a treatment plan if necessary.
Follow-up appointments :
Your post-operative care is coordinated by Renee and includes reviews with Dr George at the intervals set out in your care plan. Please attend every scheduled review even if you feel well.
Long-term considerations : Breast shape continues to settle for six to twelve months. Future pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight change and ageing can all alter your result over time.
Continue routine breast screening as recommended for your age, and let your screening provider know you have had breast reduction surgery.
When to contact us :
Contact the practice immediately, or attend your nearest emergency department, if you experience: Increasing pain, redness or swelling in one breast Fever or chills Discharge, bleeding or opening of the wound Darkening or colour change of the nipple Chest pain, shortness of breath or calf pain.

BREAST AUGMENTATION SURGERY

From $9000

Dr Robert George has helped many satisfied patients with breast augmentations, breast reconstructions and restorations, breast lifts, breast reductions, breast implant removals and breast revisions. During your private consultation, Dr Robert George will evaluate your needs to determine the best outcomes to fit your daily activities and to achieve the aesthetics you desire.

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Face & Neck · $250 Post any bio-stimulating treatment by Dr Robert George. Must be performed within 4 weeks of your initial treatment.