Breast Reduction Surgery
What is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure designed to reduce the size and weight of the breasts by removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin. The breasts are also lifted and reshaped during the procedure, resulting in an improved contour and positioning. Many women choose to undergo breast reduction to relieve the physical discomfort and emotional strain associated with large, heavy breasts – such as back or neck pain, skin irritation, and difficulty finding supportive clothing.
Benefits of Breast Reduction Surgery
Improve Posture
Reduce Back & Neck Pain
Reduce Heavy Breasts
Reduce Skin Irritation
Breast Reduction At A Glance
Surgery Time
2-3 hours
Hospital Stay
Usually 1-2 nights
Initial Recovery Time
1-2 Weeks
Showering
After 24 hrs
Light Activities
2 weeks after surgery
Resume Exercise
After 8 weeks
Compression Bra
At least 8 weeks
Scar Maturation
Upwards of a year
The Process
Step 1. Consultation
Your journey starts with a personal consultation where you can share your concerns and goals. The surgeon will carefully assess your health and breast shape, explain your options, and answer all your questions so you feel confident about the path ahead.
Step 2. Surgery
Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anaesthetic and usually takes 2-3 hours. The surgeon reshapes the breasts by removing extra tissue and skin, then repositions the nipples to achieve a balanced, proportionate appearance.
Step 3. Recovery
Most people take one to two weeks off for rest and gentle healing. Your results will continue to refine and settle over the following months, with final results typically visible at around 12 months post-surgery
Risks and Complications
All surgical procedures involve potential risks and side effects. During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss these in detail and outline how any complications would be managed. Specific risks associated with breast reduction surgery may include infection, wound breakdown, fluid collection (seroma), bleeding or haematoma, changes in nipple sensation, and abnormal scarring. Your surgeon will take every precaution to minimise these risks and support you through a safe and well-informed surgical journey.
Breast Reduction Recovery and Post-Op Care
Recovery following breast reduction surgery typically involves a one to two-night hospital stay, with drain tubes rarely required. You’ll be discharged with pain relief, antibiotics, and a compression bandage (tubi-grip) to help minimise swelling and support healing.
Your first post-operative appointment will be scheduled 7–10 days after surgery, where your nurse will remove your dressings, assess wound healing, fit you with a supportive surgical garment, and provide tailored advice on returning to work, driving, and exercise. Most patients return to work within two weeks (depending on their job), resume driving after about two weeks, and can gradually return to exercise around eight weeks post-surgery.
A second nursing review will usually take place one week later to ensure healing is progressing well. You’ll then see Dr. Rubinstein at approximately 10–12 weeks to commence scar management, followed by a one-year review to assess your long-term results. If you have any concerns at any stage, additional nursing appointments or reviews with Dr Rubinstein can be arranged to provide extra support at no additional cost.
Some swelling is expected for up to 12 weeks, with your final results continuing to refine over 12 months as everything settles.
Before And After Gallery
Disclaimer: The outcomes shown are only relevant for these patients 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.
Dr. Craig Rubinstein
Experience
Profile
FAQ's
Yes, in some cases. When completing your registration form prior to your consultation, it’s important to list all medications and supplements you are currently taking. Dr Rubinstein will review this information and advise if any need to be ceased in the lead-up to your surgery. Additionally, you will receive an email from our nursing team approximately four weeks prior to your procedure, asking you to confirm your current medications. Based on this, you’ll receive further instructions outlining which medications or supplements need to be stopped.
The final breast size after reduction varies for each patient and depends on factors such as your anatomy, individual goals, and what is considered safe and appropriate by your surgeon. Breast reduction surgery is performed to reduce physical discomfort and achieve a more proportionate breast shape. During your consultation, Dr. Rubinstein will assess your body proportions, discuss your preferences, and advise what is surgically achievable while maintaining a balanced result. As each procedure is highly individualised, outcomes will differ based on your unique circumstances and clinical assessment.
All surgical procedures involve some degree of scarring, however, the appearance of scars varies depending on the procedure, your skin type, and your individual healing process. Initially, scars may appear red and puckered, but with time they typically flatten out and fade. To optimise healing all patients are offered three complimentary laser treatments with our dermal clinicians to further improve scar appearance. You will receive guidance on scar care, including the use of fractionated coconut oil, silicone scar tape, and/or scar creams. While scars will never completely disappear, with consistent care they usually become discreet and significantly less noticeable over time.
The cost of breast with Dr. Rubinstein varies depending on several factors, including your individual circumstances, Medicare eligibility, and private health insurance coverage. In some cases, patients may qualify for Medicare item numbers, which can reduce the overall out-of-pocket expense. To ensure full transparency, after your consultation with Dr. Rubinstein you will be able to discuss in comprehensive detail all fees, inclusions, and potential financing options with one of the consultants. This includes discussion of Dr. Rubinstein’s surgical fees, assistant surgical fees, hospital and anaesthetic costs.
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