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Breast Reduction Surgery in Perth

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Breast Reduction

Breast Reduction Surgery in Perth

Breast reduction surgery, also referred to as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure considered by individuals who experience persistent physical discomfort associated with disproportionately large breasts. At his Perth practice, Dr Mark Hanikeri provides consultations for patients wishing to understand whether breast reduction surgery may be appropriate for their circumstances. This page outlines the consultation process, what the procedure involves, the recovery period, costs and risks, so that you can read through the relevant information before arranging an appointment.

Dr Hanikeri is a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS in Plastic Surgery), and consultations are available at his rooms in Subiaco, Murdoch and Albany.

When Breast Reduction Surgery May Be Considered

Many individuals consider breast reduction when symptoms begin to interfere with everyday life. Common reasons individuals enquire about breast reduction include:

  • Chronic neck, shoulder, or back pain
  • Deep grooves from bra straps
  • Skin irritation or rashes under the breast folds
  • Difficulty finding supportive clothing
  • Limitations in physical activities

If these concerns persist and non-surgical measures have not provided relief, breast reduction may be discussed at a consultation with an appropriately qualified surgeon. The decision to proceed is always an individual one and should be made after a full understanding of the procedure, recovery and possible risks.

Eligibility and Pre-Surgery Considerations

Before undergoing breast reduction surgery in Perth, several factors are taken into account during the assessment process. These help determine whether the procedure is likely to be suitable for a given patient.

  • Stable weight and BMI: Weight stability and overall health are considered during the assessment process, as significant weight changes after surgery may affect breast size and shape over time.
  • Smoking status: Smoking is known to affect wound healing and may increase surgical risks. Patients are generally asked to stop smoking at least six weeks before surgery.
  • Private health fund: Those with private health insurance may be partially covered, depending on their policy and eligibility criteria.
  • Medicare:Medicare rebates may be available where eligibility criteria are met and the procedure is considered medically necessary. A GP referral is required for both the consultation and any rebate that may apply.

These considerations are reviewed individually during the consultation, where Dr Hanikeri will discuss whether reduction mammoplasty is an appropriate option for your circumstances.

Your Consultation with Dr Hanikeri

During consultation, Dr Hanikeri discusses your concerns, medical history and what you would like to understand about the procedure. The aim is to ensure you have the information needed to consider your options carefully.

At your consultation, you will:

  • Discuss how physical symptoms affect your daily life
  • Understand the procedure, potential risks, and recovery timeline
  • Discuss potential surgical approaches based on your individual circumstances
  • Receive a detailed Surgical Fee Estimate outlining all associated costs

A second opinion from an appropriately qualified practitioner is recommended before making any final decision about surgery. Further information about Dr Hanikeri’s training and qualifications is available on the About Us and Choosing a Surgeon pages, and general preparation information is set out on the Surgery Fees & Preparation page.

Breast Reduction

Before and After Gallery

Dr Hanikeri has helped hundreds of patients over the years achieve their desired results.

View Full Gallery

Bilateral breast reduction 1

Breast Reduction

Bilateral breast reduction (1)

Breast Reduction

Bilateral breast reduction 1

Breast Reduction

Bilateral breast reduction 1

Breast Reduction

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Breast Reduction

Bilateral breast reduction - 1

Breast Reduction

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Disclaimer: The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

Consultation and Surgical Fee Estimate

A personalised quote is provided following consultation, covering all cost components, potential Medicare rebates, and the role of private health insurance.

Understanding the Costs

The breast reduction surgery cost in Perth varies depending on individual requirements. The consultation-related costs are set out below:

  • Initial Consultation: $300 (with a Medicare rebate of approximately $86.15 if eligible)
  • Follow-Up Consultation: $150 (with a Medicare rebate of approximately $43.35 if eligible)
  • Payment Plans: A $500 deposit is required to secure the surgery date. Patients have the option to pay their surgeon’s fee in instalments before surgery, with the full amount due two weeks prior to the procedure.

The total cost of breast reduction surgery in Perth includes the surgeon’s fee, anaesthetist’s fee, hospital fees, and any applicable prosthesis or pharmacy charges. A comprehensive written quote is provided so that out-of-pocket costs are clear before any decision is made.

How Breast Reduction Surgery Is Performed

Reduction mammoplasty is performed under general anaesthetic. The procedure typically follows these stages:

  • Removal of excess breast tissue, fat and skin
  • Repositioning of the nipple and areola
  • Reshaping of the breast as part of the reduction procedure

Depending on the extent of reduction, different incision patterns may be used. The technique chosen for each patient depends on individual factors discussed during consultation.

  • Anchor technique: an incision around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the fold.
  • Vertical (lollipop) incision: an incision around the areola and vertically down, without a horizontal fold incision.
  • Circumareolar technique: an incision around the areola only, used for minor reductions.

The procedure may take several hours depending on the extent of the reduction being considered.

The surgical approach used depends on factors such as breast size, skin quality, tissue distribution and the degree of reduction being considered.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from breast reduction surgery varies between individuals. General aftercare typically includes:

  • Wearing a compression garment or support bra for 4 to 6 weeks
  • Avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activity during the early recovery phase
  • Patting incisions dry after showering and keeping dressings dry
  • Using silicone gel or strips on scars as advised

Initial recovery may take 2 to 3 weeks, though this varies. Some individuals may resume most activities within 4 to 6 weeks, depending on their circumstances and recovery process. Follow-up appointments allow Dr Hanikeri to monitor healing, review the incision sites and provide guidance throughout the recovery period.

Examples of patient outcomes at different stages can be reviewed in the breast reduction gallery.

Showering after breast reduction surgery

Do not shower for the first 48 hours after surgery. From day three, you may shower as instructed by your surgeon, keeping dressings dry, washing the area gently, and avoiding direct water pressure on the incisions. Pat the area dry with a clean towel. Specific instructions are provided after surgery.

Managing post-operative pain

You will be prescribed pain medication by your anaesthetist, along with instructions on how often to take it. As with any surgery, there can be longer-term discomfort after breast reduction surgery; following your surgeon’s instructions helps to minimise this. If you are experiencing pain that is not adequately controlled, it is important to contact your surgeon as soon as possible.

Scarring and Long-Term Considerations

Reduction mammoplasty results in permanent scars, with their location depending on the incision pattern used during the procedure. Scars are typically more noticeable in the early months and gradually fade over time, although the final appearance varies between individuals. Using silicone gel or silicone strips on scars as advised by your surgeon, along with protecting the area from sun exposure, may assist with scar management during healing.

Longer-term considerations include the effect of future pregnancy, breastfeeding and significant changes in weight, each of which can alter breast size and shape after surgery. Breast asymmetry may also be present before surgery or develop afterwards to a minor degree, and this is discussed during consultation. These factors are part of the overall conversation about whether reduction mammoplasty is the right option for you at this stage of life.

Photographs of previous patients are available in the breast reduction before and after gallery, where individual patient outcomes are shown subject to the patient outcome disclaimer.

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgery, breast reduction involves potential risks. These include:

  • Swelling, bruising, or temporary changes in sensation
  • Infection, bleeding, or delayed wound healing
  • Minor asymmetry in breast shape or nipple position
  • Possible effects on future breastfeeding ability

Your surgeon will discuss these thoroughly during your consultation. Further information on surgical risks is available on the Surgery Risks and Complications page. All surgical procedures carry risks, and a second opinion from an appropriately qualified practitioner is recommended before proceeding.

Where Dr Hanikeri Consults in Perth and Western Australia

Dr Hanikeri consults at three locations across Perth and regional Western Australia:

  • Subiaco: Suite 215, 25 McCourt Street, Subiaco WA 6008
  • Murdoch: Suite 51, Wexford Medical Centre, 3 Barry Marshall Parade, Murdoch WA 6150
  • Albany: Great Southern Specialist Centre, 55 Cockburn Road, Mira Mar WA 6330

Surgery is performed at accredited visiting hospitals including Bethesda Hospital, St John of God Hospital Subiaco, West Leederville Private Hospital and Albany Day Hospital.

Next Steps: Consultation in Perth

Individuals considering breast reduction surgery in Perth can discuss their circumstances with Dr Hanikeri during a consultation. If you are considering this procedure, a consultation provides an opportunity to discuss your circumstances and ask questions relevant to your situation. To arrange a consultation, please visit our Contact Us page.

Note: All surgical procedures carry risks. Individual results may vary. A second opinion from an appropriately qualified practitioner is recommended.

Breast Reduction FAQs

Who is eligible for breast reduction surgery in Perth?

Adults whose breasts are fully developed and who experience ongoing physical discomfort may be considered. Eligibility is assessed individually at consultation, taking into account general health, BMI and other factors.

Will Medicare or private health insurance cover breast reduction?

If the procedure is medically necessary and meets the relevant criteria, Medicare or private health insurance may contribute toward the cost. Eligibility is reviewed at consultation, and a GP referral is required.

How long is the recovery time?

Many individuals return to lighter activities within approximately two weeks, although recovery timelines vary.

How long will I stay in hospital after breast reduction surgery?

Most patients stay one to two nights in hospital after breast reduction surgery, depending on the procedure and individual recovery.

Can you breastfeed after breast reduction?

Breastfeeding may still be possible after breast reduction; however, every case is different. This is discussed in detail during consultation.

What risks are involved with breast reduction surgery?

Possible risks include bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, changes in sensation, or asymmetry. These are discussed in detail during consultation.

How can I reduce scars after breast reduction?

Follow your surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care, including silicone gel or strips on scars and avoiding direct sun exposure to the scar area during healing.

How is a breast reduction different from a breast lift?

A breast reduction removes breast tissue to reduce size, while a breast lift (mastopexy) repositions and reshapes the breast without significantly reducing volume.

Schedule a consultation with our specialist plastic surgeon today.