Breast Reduction Surgery with Stanley Loo, FRACS

Breast reduction, or reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes breast tissue and reshapes the remaining breast.

Women with very large or heavy breasts may experience physical symptoms such as neck, shoulder or back discomfort, bra-strap pressure, skin irritation and limitations with physical activity.

Breast reduction can reduce breast volume while reshaping and lifting the remaining breast tissue.

Mr Stanley Loo, BHB, MBChB, FRACS (Plast) provides consultations for breast reduction in Auckland.

Why Consider Breast Reduction?

Large breasts can affect everyday activities as well as comfort and clothing choices.

Reasons for considering breast reduction may include:

Neck, shoulder or back discomfort
Bra-strap indentations
Skin irritation or chafing
Difficulty exercising
Difficulty finding comfortable clothing
Concerns about breast size or proportions

The decision to have surgery is individual and should be based on your symptoms, circumstances and expectations.

Breast Reduction Techniques

There are several breast reduction techniques.

The technique selected affects the position and extent of scars.

During surgery, excess breast tissue is removed and the remaining breast tissue and nipple-areola complex are repositioned.

Stanley Loo has developed a new renowned technique which describes removal of tissue from the lower and lateral portions of the breast with lifting of the remaining breast tissue and nipple-areola complex. This technique removes more tissue and is safer than the traditional techniques.

What Happens During Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction involves removing selected breast tissue and reshaping the remaining breast.

The nipple and areola are repositioned as part of the operation, and the breast is reshaped to create a smaller breast.

There are several breast reduction techniques. The appropriate technique depends on factors such as breast size, shape, skin quality and the amount of tissue that needs to be removed.

Breast Reduction Scars

Scarring is an expected part of breast reduction surgery.

The location and extent of scars depend on the technique required. Your surgeon will explain the likely scar pattern during your consultation.

Scars generally change and mature over time, although their final appearance varies between individuals.

Recovery After Breast Reduction

Breast reduction is performed under general anaesthesia.

After surgery, you may experience swelling, bruising and discomfort. You will receive instructions about wound care, supportive garments, activity and scar management.

The current practice information recommends a supportive non-underwire bra for up to six weeks and advises avoiding heavy physical activity for approximately 4–6 weeks, although individual recovery recommendations may differ.

The practice currently advises that many patients can return to work within approximately 10–14 days, depending on their circumstances and the nature of their work.

Breast Reduction Risks

As with any surgery, breast reduction carries potential risks.

These can include:

Bleeding
Infection
Wound-healing problems
Scarring
Changes in breast or nipple sensation
Asymmetry
Changes to nipple or breast tissue
Possible difficulties with breastfeeding
The need for further surgery

Your individual risks depend on your health, breast size, surgical technique and other factors.

Breast Reduction Consultation in Auckland

A consultation allows Mr Loo to assess your breasts, discuss your symptoms and understand what you hope to achieve.

Your consultation will cover the surgical options, expected scars, recovery, potential risks and whether breast reduction is appropriate for you.

Auckland Plastic Surgery Group
Unit 6, 31 Highbrook Drive
East Tāmaki, Auckland 2013

Phone: (09) 220 2580

Stanley Loo operates at Ormiston Hospital and Kakariki Hospital for breast reduction surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can breast reduction help with back and shoulder discomfort?

Large breasts can contribute to neck, shoulder and back symptoms in some patients. Whether reduction surgery is likely to help depends on your individual circumstances.

Will I have scars after breast reduction?

Yes. Breast reduction requires incisions and therefore leaves scars. Your surgeon will explain the expected scar pattern during your consultation.

How long will I be off work?

The time away from work varies according to the individual and the type of work. The current practice information suggests approximately 10–14 days for many patients.

When can I exercise after breast reduction?

Heavy physical activity should be avoided during the early recovery period. Your surgeon will advise when you can gradually return to exercise.

Can breast reduction affect breastfeeding?

Breast reduction can potentially affect the ability to breastfeed, depending on the surgical technique and individual circumstances. This should be discussed before surgery, particularly if future breastfeeding is important to you.