When deciding on a breast reduction technique, it is important to remember that different techniques will leave different scars. All breast reduction techniques leave scars, however, to what extent partly depends on the specific incision techniques used. There are two different scar patterns commonly produced: Shorter Scar technique (Vertical) This technique consists of two smaller incisions. The method is used for people who experience sagging and want a minimal to moderate reduction in breast size. The first incision is made around the areola, and the second is from the bottom of the areola to just above the breast fold. Larger-scar techniques (Anchor) These involve more incisions and are often used on patients requiring a larger reduction in breast size. The technique involves three incisions. One between the areola and breast crease, one around the areola and one horizontally along the breast crease. This technique is most often used for women who desire a la...

As the weather heats up in Australia in this half of the year few people will be surprised to hear that the enquiries for breast reduction procedures increase. The prospect of another summer experiencing the additional discomfort of hot and humid weather can cause women to seek advice. In addition to the well documented neck, back, shoulder pain , difficulties buying clothes and self-esteem issues, which are present at all time of the year, additional symptoms which become more frequent in the summer months  which may include rashes under the breasts due to sweating, infections and sometimes even bleeding. If you add into the mix the need to wear bulky heavy bra or bras for the necessary support the situation can be very challenging. Sometimes women are concerned that due to a combination of these symptoms breast reduction cannot be performed in the summer months. This is not the case. Breast reduction can be safely performed at anytime during the year in fact ma...

After a short break due to the covid-19 pandemic and subsequent shutdown in metropolitan Melbourne, we are so excited to let you know that the Government has announced that elective surgery can resume on the 28th of September. This announcement details that breast reduction procedures and consultations may recommence at a capacity of 75%, meaning that your breast reduction surgery can now be scheduled with us, but there may be slightly less availability than usual as we work to the legal limits. In July, Premier Daniel Andrews said that was necessary to free up healthcare workers needed to help in aged care, and hospital beds for people sick with COVID-19, meaning elective surgery was suspended. At the time of the announcement, Victoria had recorded nearly 400 cases in one day, and all elective surgery except the most urgent procedures were cancelled, however the breast reduction clinic has been given the nod to begin elective procedures again with the falling case numbers in ...

You've decided to have breast reduction surgery and have familiarised yourself with the process. The preparation and procedure are very important, but equally as important is learning to incorporate your new chest weight and shape into your everyday life after the surgery is complete. One of the most common reasons women seek breast reduction surgery relates to postural problems. Most commonly postural issues cause shoulder, neck and upper back strain and pain as a result of the weight of the breasts pulling down on the muscles around the shoulder and neck. Hunching forwards of the shoulders either due to the weight of the breasts or by the habit of hunching to hide large breasts also is a common cause for pain. Further, postural problems can be caused by the neck and back muscles overcompensating for the weight of the breasts leading to muscle tenderness and spasm. Breast reduction by reducing the size (and weight) of the breasts, relieves the demand on neck and back mu...

You have made the decision to undergo the breast reduction procedure, you have recovered and you are adjusting to your new normal. All of the negative aspects your breasts used to bring into your life have been flipped on their head. But what is it like one, two or twenty years later? Will you still perceive yourself to have a higher quality of life and body confidence? Will your new chest still bring you the joy and relief that you feel immediately post surgery? As I mentioned in my recent blog post, "Breast Reductions in young women" there are many discerning factors which should guide you in deciding if you are in the correct life stage to undergo a breast reduction, particularly if you are under 25 or so. Most of these factors are unique to each individual patient and depend on their plans for the future, the importance they place on certain things (such as breast feeding) and their intention to have a family. However, there is evidence to suggest that many of th...

Generally, the advice is that there is likely to be a 50 per cent chance that breastfeeding capabilities will be affected by breast surgery of any form, and it is an important factor to consider before undergoing the procedure. Breastfeeding should be discussed with the surgeon fully before any breast surgery. As with all surgeries, there is a certain element of risk associated with the procedure. If the prospect of being unable to breast feed in the future is a non-negotiable for you, it is recommended that you wait to have a breast reduction until you are finished having a family. According to the Australian Breastfeeding association, many mothers who have had breast surgery are able to breastfeed, at least to some extent. Some mothers find that they are able to: Breastfeed fully (without the need to supplement) Breast feed with a galactagogue (a medication to further stimulate your remaining breast tissue) (depending on the reason for a low supply) Partially br...