Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) Myths Debunked

Dr Jake Lim’s Insights on Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) Surgery

Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) surgery is a procedure that can help alleviate physical discomfort caused by overly large breasts. As a complex plastic surgery intervention, it requires not only technical expertise but also a deep understanding of each patient’s unique needs and goals. In this blog, Sydney Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Jake Lim will explore and debunk common myths surrounding Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) surgery, providing you with accurate, up-to-date information.

Download Dr Lim’s Breast Reduction Surgery Guide

Myth #1: Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) is only for cosmetic purposes

One of the most persistent misconceptions about Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) surgery is that it’s purely a cosmetic procedure, driven by vanity rather than medical necessity. While Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) can indeed alter the patient’s appearance, its primary purpose is often to alleviate physical discomfort.

Many women with overly large breasts experience a range of medical issues. Chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain are common complaints, as the excess weight of large breasts can put significant strain on these areas. This constant discomfort can lead to poor posture, which in turn may cause further musculoskeletal problems. Skin irritation and rashes underneath the breasts are also frequent issues, particularly in warm climates like Sydney’s, where moisture can get trapped in the skin folds.

Moreover, large breasts can interfere with physical activities and exercise. Some women find it challenging to participate in sports or even perform daily tasks comfortably. This limitation not only affects physical health but can also impact overall well-being and social interactions.

Myth #2: Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) results don’t last

Another common myth surrounding Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) surgery is that the results are temporary or prone to reversal over time. This misconception often deters women from considering the procedure, fearing that they might need to undergo multiple surgeries throughout their lives. However, the reality is quite different, and understanding the long-term effects and maintenance of Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) results is essential.

Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) surgery typically provides long-lasting results. The procedure involves removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin, and reshaping the remaining tissue to create a more proportionate appearance. These changes are generally permanent, as the removed tissue does not grow back.

However, it’s important to understand that breasts, like all parts of the body, are subject to natural changes over time. Factors such as ageing, weight fluctuations, hormonal changes, and pregnancy can affect the size and shape of breasts post-surgery.

Weight management plays a significant role in maintaining Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) results. Substantial weight gain can lead to an increase in breast size, as breasts contain fatty tissue. Conversely, significant weight loss might cause the breasts to become smaller or less firm. Dr Lim advises his patients on the importance of maintaining a stable weight to preserve their results.

Hormonal factors, including pregnancy and menopause, can also influence breast size and shape. Pregnancy, in particular, can cause breasts to enlarge temporarily.

It’s also worth noting that even if breasts do change somewhat over time, the relative proportion achieved through surgery often remains.

Breast Reduction Patient 10 — Angle View

Myth #3: Medicare never covers Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty)

A common misconception among Australians is that Medicare never covers Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) surgery. In reality, Medicare does provide coverage for Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) in certain circumstances, but understanding the criteria and navigating the system can be complex.

In Australia, Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) can be covered by Medicare when it’s deemed medically necessary. The Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) includes item numbers for Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) surgery, but patients must meet specific criteria to be eligible. These criteria are designed to ensure that the procedure is performed for genuine medical reasons rather than purely cosmetic purposes.

Key Medicare criteria for Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) coverage include:

Documented evidence of physical symptoms: This may include chronic neck, back, or shoulder pain, skin irritation, or postural problems directly attributable to large breasts.
Conservative treatment failure: Patients must show that non-surgical treatments, such as physiotherapy or specialised supportive garments, have been tried without success.
Breast size: The aim of the procedure is to reduce the breast to a size proportionate to the frame of the body. As bra cup sizes anr different with different brands and chest size, Dr Lim does not recommend a particular size of breast. This is because one size does not fit all as every person is of different build.
Photographs: Clinical photographs are often required to demonstrate the size and any physical symptoms visually.

It’s important to note that even with Medicare coverage, there will still be out-of-pocket expenses. These can include gap fees, hospital excess, or costs for items not covered by Medicare.

Myth #4: All Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) techniques are the same

The notion that all Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) techniques are the same is a misconception that overlooks the significant advancements in plastic surgery and the importance of tailored approaches for each patient. In reality, there are several different techniques for Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty), each with its own advantages and considerations.

Some of the most common Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) techniques include:

Vertical or “lollipop” technique: This involves incisions around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease, resulting in less scarring than traditional methods.
Inverted-T or “anchor” technique: This traditional method involves incisions around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the crease. It’s suitable for significant reductions.
Free nipple graft technique: Used in cases of extreme breast hypertrophy, this technique completely removes and replaces the nipple-areola complex.

The choice of technique depends on various factors, including:

The amount of reduction needed
Your skin elasticity
The position of the nipple-areola complex
Your healing characteristics
The desired final breast shape and position

Myth #5: Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) is only for older women

The misconception that Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) surgery is exclusively for older women is a myth that can prevent younger women from seeking relief from the physical challenges associated with overly large breasts. In reality, Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) can be beneficial for women of various ages.

Younger women can experience significant issues due to disproportionately large breasts. These problems may include:

Physical discomfort: Back, neck, and shoulder pain can start at an early age and worsen over time if left untreated.
Difficulty with physical activities: Large breasts can hinder participation in sports and exercise, potentially leading to a sedentary lifestyle.

Dr Lim’s approach to treating younger patients involves careful consideration of their physical development, future plans, and emotional readiness. For younger patients, he ensures that breast development is complete before recommending surgery.

When treating younger patients, Dr Lim places particular emphasis on:

Thorough pre-operative counselling to ensure the patient fully understands the procedure and its implications.
Discussing potential impacts on future breastfeeding.
Considering potential future growth or changes in breast size due to factors like weight fluctuations or pregnancy.
Employing techniques that minimise scarring, which can be a significant concern for younger patients.

Breast Reduction Patient 11 — Front View

Myth #6: You’ll definitely need a second surgery later in life

A prevalent misconception about Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) surgery is the belief that it’s only a temporary solution, inevitably requiring a second surgery later in life. The reality is that for most patients, Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) surgery provides long-lasting results without the need for additional procedures. The changes made during the surgery are generally permanent. The excess breast tissue, fat, and skin removed during the procedure do not grow back.

However, it’s important to understand that breasts, like all parts of the body, are subject to natural changes over time. Factors that can affect breast shape and size post-surgery include:

Significant weight fluctuations
Hormonal changes, including pregnancy and menopause
Natural ageing process
Gravity

To maximise the longevity of results, Dr Lim advises patients to:

Maintain a stable weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise
Wear supportive bras, especially during physical activities
Follow post-operative care instructions meticulously
Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing and results

It’s worth noting that even if breasts undergo some changes over time, the relative proportion achieved through surgery often remains.

Myth #7: You can achieve the same results with weight loss or exercise

A common myth surrounding Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) is the belief that the same results can be achieved through weight loss or targeted exercises. While a healthy lifestyle is always beneficial, it’s important to understand why these methods are often insufficient for women dealing with disproportionately large breasts.

Breast size doesn’t always correlate directly with body weight. Breasts are composed of both fatty tissue and glandular tissue. The ratio of these tissues varies from person to person and is largely determined by genetics. For many women with large breasts, the issue is an excess of glandular tissue, which doesn’t respond to weight loss or exercise in the same way that fatty tissue does.

Weight loss can indeed reduce breast size to some extent, as the fatty component of the breasts may decrease. However, this reduction is often not sufficient for women experiencing physical discomfort due to very large breasts. Moreover, weight loss can sometimes exacerbate issues like sagging, which doesn’t address the core problems of back pain, shoulder grooving, or difficulty with physical activities.

Exercise, particularly strength training for the chest muscles, can help improve posture and provide some lift to the breasts. However, no amount of exercise can significantly reduce breast size or reshape the breasts in the way that surgery can.

FAQs about Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) Surgery

How long is the recovery period after Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) surgery?

Recovery time can vary, but most patients can return to light activities within 2-3 weeks. Full recovery typically takes 6 weeks. During the first 2 week, you’ll need to rest and avoid lifting heavy objects. You’ll wear a special surgical bra to support your breasts and reduce swelling. Most patients can return to sedentary work after 2 weeks, depending on their job requirements. Strenuous activities and exercise should be avoided for at least 6 weeks. Dr Lim provides detailed post-operative instructions and schedules follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress.

Will Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) affect my ability to breastfeed in the future?

Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) surgery can affect breastfeeding. The ability to breastfeed depends on the surgical technique used and how much glandular tissue is removed. If you’re planning to have children and wish to breastfeed, it’s important to discuss this with Dr Lim during your consultation.

How much pain should I expect after Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) surgery?

Pain levels vary among patients. The first few days after surgery are typically the most uncomfortable. In most cases, over-the-counter pain medications are sufficient after the first few days. Discomfort usually subsides significantly within a week, though some soreness and sensitivity may persist for several weeks.

Will my nipple sensation change after Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty)?

Changes in nipple sensation are possible after Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) surgery. Some patients experience numbness or hypersensitivity in the nipples and surrounding skin. In some cases, sensation returns to normal within a few months as the nerves heal. However, there is a risk of permanent changes in sensation.

How soon after Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) can I resume intimate activities?

Most patients can resume intimate activities about 4-6 weeks after Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) surgery. However, this timeline can vary depending on individual healing rates and the extent of the surgery. It’s important to wait until your incisions have healed and you feel comfortable. Your breasts may remain sensitive for some time, so you’ll need to be gentle.