BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY

by Julian A. Lofts MB ChB FRACS (Plast.)

Breast reduction surgery dramatically improves the quality of life for women with excessively large breasts. The operation is safe, straightforward and not especially uncomfortable. Some healthcare insurers will even subsidise the cost when breast reduction is indicated for medical reasons.

Excessive breast development is an underestimated problem that afflicts a significant number of women of all ages. Large-breasted women may suffer chronic back, shoulder and neck pain, muscle strain, poor posture, tension headaches, deep strap marks, skin irritation, breast discomfort, and difficulty fitting clothes and exercising. They are also subject to humiliation and harassment, resulting in low self-esteem, depression and a reluctance to participate in many social and recreational activities. Heavy, pendulous breasts will aggravate osteoporosis, arthritis, occupational overuse syndrome and respiratory conditions, such as asthma. Large breasts will become even larger during pregnancy and can hinder satisfactory breast-feeding. Breast reduction is also indicated to balance breast size after total or partial mastectomy.

An almost universal response after breast reduction surgery is “This is the best thing I have ever done”. It is often followed by “I just wish I had done it sooner”. Age is no barrier. Patients range from age 15 to 75, or more.

It is important to choose a qualified plastic surgeon who is experienced in various breast reduction techniques. Surgeons should hold a post graduate fellowship of a surgical college (FRACS) and be registered as specialists with the Medical Council. Look for a surgeon who specialises in cosmetic plastic surgery as they will pay particular attention to symmetry and aesthetic principles and will excel in minimising scars.

Breast reduction surgery takes between two to three hours to perform depending on breast size and the technique chosen. The operation takes place under general anaesthetic in a registered hospital and most patients go home the following day. There is only mild to moderate discomfort for several days and approximately two weeks convalescence is recommended before returning to work. Exercise and underwire bras should be avoided for four to six weeks.

Complications such as infection, bleeding, delayed wound healing and loss of sensation are uncommon. Obesity and smoking may interfere with healing and recovery from anaesthesia. Scars may take nine to twelve months to settle.

Breast-feeding is possible after reduction surgery so women should not be discouraged from having this operation before starting a family.

The overall costs for breast reduction surgery vary from $8,000 to $10,000. Full healthcare insurance cover is now available for this procedure. Other healthcare insurers provide a subsidy of up to $4,000 provided breast reduction is indicted for medical reasons and membership criteria are fulfilled. Because of funding cutbacks breast reductions are rarely performed in the public health system.

Women considering this procedure should talk to their GP or contact the helpline of the New Zealand Foundation for Cosmetic Plastic Surgery on 09 3769095 for referral to a plastic surgeon.

Julian A. Lofts MB ChB FRACS (Plast.) is a cosmetic plastic surgeon. He specialises in breast reduction, augmentation, reconstruction and body contouring. He is in full time private practice in Auckland.

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