A breast reduction consultation may be appropriate for adults who would like to discuss breast size, weight, shape or associated physical symptoms. Suitability can only be determined after an individual assessment by a Specialist Plastic Surgeon.
You may be suitable to arrange a consultation if you:
- Experience physical discomfort that you associate with breast size or breast weight, such as neck, shoulder, back or breast discomfort
- Experience skin irritation beneath the breast fold or indentations from bra straps
- Find certain physical activities, exercise, clothing or supportive garments uncomfortable or difficult due to breast size
- Have noticed changes in breast size, shape, skin laxity or asymmetry over time
- Would like to discuss whether breast reduction surgery is clinically appropriate for you
- Are in suitable general health for surgery and general anaesthesia
- Are able to provide informed consent and have realistic expectations about the potential outcomes, scars, limitations and recovery process
- Are at a stable weight, or working towards one, as significant future weight changes may alter breast size and affect the surgical result
- Are willing to follow pre-operative and post-operative instructions, including avoiding smoking and nicotine products where advised
- Have a current GP referral for surgical consultation
Breast reduction surgery may not be appropriate for everyone. Your surgeon will consider factors including general health, smoking or nicotine use, medications, medical conditions, breast imaging history, prior breast surgery, skin quality and your individual risk factors.
Future pregnancy, breastfeeding and significant weight changes can alter breast size and shape after surgery. Breastfeeding may still be possible following a breast reduction, but this cannot be guaranteed. Your surgeon will discuss these considerations with you, particularly if you are planning future pregnancy or breastfeeding.
During consultation, your surgeon may recommend further assessment, breast imaging, medical optimisation, weight stabilisation, smoking cessation, an alternative approach, delaying surgery or deciding not to proceed. A consultation does not commit you to surgery.
