Breast reduction / breast lifts

Large, heavy and drooping breasts are a common cause of chronic problems resulting in pain from the neck and shoulder region as well as reduced range of movement. In complicated cases the surgery is performed within the state health service but due to limited resources not everyone can be offered this treatment.

The surgery is performed under general anaesthetic and depending on the nature of the procedure used, patients may be required to stay overnight.

The various surgical methods available are discussed together with the patient including the localization of incisions and the amount of tissue to be removed. In the case of breast lifts only skin is removed.

In addition to general complications following surgery individual patients may not be completely satisfied with the breast symmetry or with scarring. This can usually be rectified however.

Rehabilitation periods vary depending on the scope of the surgery and the type of work that the patient carries out. Physically challenging exercise should be avoided for the first few weeks.