Breast Reduction

Breast Reduction is often perceived as a simple operation, but considerable skill is required to achieve a natural breast shape.

Breast Reduction surgery requires a general anaesthetic, with the operation taking about 3 hours. It is usually performed as a short-stay procedure.

There are many different techniques described for Breast Reduction, with nearly all techniques leaving the nipple-areola complex attached to the breast tissue. The majority of surgeons in Australia use the Wise pattern / inverted-T (inferior pedicle) technique, which was described by Robbins, a Melbourne Plastic Surgeon.

This technique leaves a scar around the areola, vertically down from the areola and horizontally long the breast crease. The excess skin, fat and breast tissue are removed, and the nipple-areola complex is moved to a higher position based on an inferiorly-based pedicle.

Most Breast Reductions remove 600-800g of breast tissue on each side, but >1kg on each side is occasionally needed.

Dr. Sellars can also use a vertical pattern type of reduction, which minimises the scars under the breast. This technique however, has a higher need for revisional surgery and works best smaller reductions in the younger patient. Dr Sellars will discuss whether this type of procedure is suitable for you at your consultation.