A Breast Reduction is a highly individualised procedure and may not be suitable for everyone. Dr Preketes will assess your condition and general health, and plan the treatment that is best suited to you.

Breast reduction may be a good option for you if:

• You are physically healthy
• You have realistic expectations
• Your breasts are fully developed
• You are bothered by the feeling that your breasts are too large
• Your breasts limit your physical activity
• You experience back, neck and shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breasts
• You have regular indentations from bra straps that support heavy, pendulous breasts
• You have skin irritation beneath the breast crease
• Your breasts hang low and have stretched skin
• Your nipples rest below the breast crease when your breasts are unsupported
• You have enlarged areolas caused by stretched skin

Remember that the shape and size of your breasts before surgery will influence the surgical procedure and the outcome.

General risks and complications

All surgeries have potential risks and complications that can arise. Some generalised risks are:

• Risks of anaesthesia including allergic reaction or potentially fatal cardiovascular complications such as heart attack
• A blood clot in the deep veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis), which can move to the lungs (pulmonary embolus) or to the brain and may be life threatening
• Pain and discomfort
• Allergic reaction to suture materials, tape adhesive or other medical materials and lotions if experienced can cause a delay in healing

Dr Preketes will discuss specific risks and complications during your consultations, however, for a more comprehensive list that relate to Breast Reduction, please see our Resources Tab.

There a potential rebates available through Medicare and Private Health Insurance pending on if you meet the strict criteria.

You will need to undergo a consultation with Dr Preketes to confirm your eligibility.

Generalised preparation prior to surgery:

• Be as fit as possible to help the recovery process
• Reach your optimal weight
• Check with your surgeon about your medications as some may need to be stopped
• Stop smoking

Health Information and Medications:

You will also be asked to provide a complete medical history including any health problems you have had, any medication you are taking or have taken, and any allergies
you may have.

You may be advised to stop taking certain medicines such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, and medicines that contain aspirin.  You may also be asked to stop taking naturopathic substances such as garlic, gingko, ginseng and St John’s Wort as they may affect clotting and anaesthesia. It is important to tell Dr Preketes EVERYTHING you are taking.

Dr Preketes takes great care in his surgical technique with aim of providing an aesthetically pleasing outcome, although scarring is an inevitable part of any invasive surgery. Scar management options can be discussed during your consults with our dedicated team.

After breast reduction, most people need 4 weeks off from work, with the ability to resume light activities. Full recovery usually takes about 6 weeks.