Breast Reduction | New Zealand Reconstructive Surgical Specialists

What is breast reduction surgery?

Breast reduction surgery involves the removal of skin and tissue from the breast, followed by reshaping and elevating to create a smaller breast in proportion to body size. Women seeking breast reduction have physical symptoms due to the size and weight of their breasts, leading to significant restrictions to day-to-day activities and psychological wellbeing.

Many women struggle with the decision to have a breast reduction, however afterwards consider it one of the best decisions they ever made for themselves. There are different reasons a woman may consider a breast reduction. Whatever the reason, the goal of surgery is to improve overall quality of life.

Many women say that after a breast reduction they have improved self-confidence and are more comfortable in their own bodies.
Women almost always report that having smaller breasts significantly reduces back pain, and gives them newfound energy throughout the day.
Some women find a reduction in headaches.
Women often report finding clothes that fit them and they can buy regular clothing.
By removing weight from their breasts nearly all women experience a significant reduction in bra strap pain.
Women frustrated with the pain and discomfort of having overly large breasts can finally exercise in the way they want.
For women with very large breasts, skin irritation under the breasts is common; this is significantly reduced after a breast reduction.
Women find it easier to breathe with smaller, more proportionate breasts.

Who is a good candidate for breast reduction surgery?

Breast reduction is a highly individualized procedure. It is important that you are doing this for yourself, not trying to fit an “ideal” image or to do this for someone else. Overly large breasts can cause health and emotional problems. In addition to self-image issues, you may also experience physical pain and discomfort. The weight of excess breast tissue can impair your ability to lead an active life. The emotional discomfort and self-consciousness often associated with having large pendulous breasts can be as important an issue as the physical discomfort and pain.

Ideal candidates for breast reduction are:

Bothered by the feeling that their breasts are too large
Struggling with physical activity due to the size of their breasts
Experiencing back, neck and shoulder pain caused by the weight of their breasts
Suffering from shoulder indentations caused by bra straps and/or have skin irritation beneath the breast crease
Healthy individuals who do not have a life-threatening illness or medical conditions that can impair healing
Non-smokers / non-vapers
Individuals with a positive outlook and specific goals in mind for breast reduction
Have a healthy body weight in the normal range (as increased weight can risk increased complications)

What should I expect during a consultation for breast reduction surgery?

The success and safety of your breast reduction procedure depends on your honesty and openness during the consultation. During your consultation be prepared to discuss:

Your reasons for wanting to have surgery, your expectations and your desired outcome
Your surgical goals
Your medical conditions and medical treatments (bring documentation if you have it)
Your current medications and drug allergies, any vitamins or herbal supplements you take and any alcohol, tobacco, vaping or drug use
Breast cancer in the family, as well as the results of any mammograms or previous biopsies
Your current family and goals for future children and breastfeeding
Any questions or concerns you have about breast reduction from your own research

Your plastic surgeon will also:

Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
Examine and evaluate the appearance of your breasts, including the position of the nipples and areolas, the condition of the skin and the shape and symmetry of the breasts (it is not uncommon for one breast to be slightly different to the other)
Take photographs
Discuss your surgical options and make recommendations
Discuss the likely outcomes of breast reduction and any risks or potential complications

Don’t hesitate to ask your plastic surgeon questions. Bring a support person if you wish. Make sure you are happy that you fully understand the procedure, and you have had all your questions answered. Sometimes a second consultation may be offered, in case you have questions or concerns that come to mind after the initial visit.

What questions should I ask my plastic surgeon about Breast Reduction surgery?

Are you vocationally registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand as a specialist plastic surgeon?
Are you a member of the New Zealand Association of Plastic Surgeons?
Will the procedure be conducted in a hospital or office-based setting, and is the facility accredited for this type of surgery?
What type of anaesthesia is needed for this procedure?
Based on my medical history and condition, is surgery the best option for me? If so, am I a suitable candidate for this surgery?
Which surgical technique do you recommend for my case, and why?
What are the realistic expectations for the outcome of this procedure in my case?
What steps or lifestyle changes are necessary for me to get the best result from my surgery?
What is the anticipated duration of recovery, and what assistance will I need during this period?
What potential risks and complications are associated with this procedure? How would you manage these should they arise?
How will my results change over time?
If I’m unhappy with the outcome, what recourse options are available?

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Disclaimer: This website is intended to provide you with general information only. This information is not a substitute for advice from your Specialist Plastic Surgeon and does not contain all the known facts about this procedure or every possible side effect of surgery. It is important that you speak to your surgeon before deciding to undergo surgery. If you are not sure about the benefits, risks and limitations of treatment, or anything else relating to your procedure, ask your surgeon to explain. Patient information provided as part of this website is evidence-based, and sourced from a range of reputable information providers including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Better Health Channel and Mi-tec medical publishing.