Breast Reduction: A Reconstructive Procedure That Can Relieve Physical Discomfort
Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammaplasty, is a reconstructive procedure that involves the removal of excess breast tissue, skin, and fat to reduce the size and weight of the breasts. While often associated with cosmetic changes, the procedure is commonly sought to relieve physical symptoms and improve daily comfort.
For many individuals, disproportionately large breasts can lead to a range of physical concerns, including back, neck and shoulder pain, skin irritation, and limitations in physical activity. Breast reduction aims to restore physical balance and reduce these burdens.
Why Patients Consider Breast Reduction
People seek breast reduction for a range of reasons, including:
- Chronic discomfort in the neck, shoulders, or upper back
- Grooves or indentations from bra straps due to weight of the breasts
- Skin irritation or rash under the breast fold
- Difficulty participating in certain types of physical activity
- Postural challenges or imbalance
- Asymmetry or structural heaviness following hormonal changes, pregnancy, or weight fluctuations
Breast reduction may also be recommended for individuals with breast hypertrophy – a medical condition characterised by excessive breast tissue growth.
What the Procedure Involves
Abdominoplasty is not purely cosmetic. Many patients pursue the procedure to address physical symptoms or functional limitations, including:
Cosmetic Considerations
Breast reduction is performed under general anaesthetic. During the procedure, Dr. Kwei removes excess tissue, reshapes the remaining breast structure, and repositions the nipple and areola for improved symmetry and balance. Incision techniques vary depending on the extent of tissue being removed and the patient’s unique anatomy.
The standard breast reduction technique is known as the ‘WISE’ pattern technique, where there is an incision around the nipple-areolar (allowing control of new nipple size and position), and a short vertical incision under the nipple-areola and an incision in the inframammary fold. This allows the excess skin and tissue under the breast to be removed, and the incision in the inframammary fold is usually hidden as it is under the breast. Because the resulting scar (areolar-vertical-inframammary fold) appears like a cartoon shape of an anchor of a ship, it is also known as the ‘Anchor-scar’ technique.
A degree of breast volume needs to be maintained to provide the native nipple-areola with a blood supply. Dr Kwei uses the supero-medial and the superior pedicle routinely for his surgery.
Dr Kwei also employs the ‘internal bra’ fixation suturing technique to further secure the new inframammary fold, to further support the inferior portion of the breast and provide longevity to the surgical results.
As part of the breast reduction surgery, Dr Kwei also utilises liposuction when required, around the breast and axilla to further refine the contours of the breast shape after the breast reduction, and remove any excess tissue and volume in these areas.
Functional Benefits of Breast Reduction
Breast reduction is a reconstructive procedure, and for many patients, the primary motivation is relief from physical symptoms, such as:
- Reduction in musculoskeletal pain (particularly in the upper body)
- Improved posture and movement range
- Reduced frequency of skin rashes or infections
- Improved ability to engage in exercise or physical activity
Greater ease in finding supportive clothing or bras that fit correctly
These changes can lead to a noticeable improvement in day-to-day functionality.
Recovery and Post-Operative Care
Most patients return to desk-based work within 1–2 weeks, though individual recovery time will vary. A surgical bra or compression garment may be recommended to support healing and reduce swelling. Heavy lifting and strenuous activity should be avoided for several weeks post-surgery, as advised during follow-up consultations.
Temporary changes in breast sensation can occur, particularly around the nipple area, and are monitored closely during recovery.
Is Breast Reduction Right for You?
This procedure may be suitable for individuals who:
- Experience physical discomfort related to the size or weight of their breasts
- Have ongoing skin issues or chafing in the breast fold
- Find their breast size restricts physical movement or comfort
- Are in general good health and at a stable weight
Dr. Johnny Kwei offers a thorough consultation process to assess each patient’s symptoms, anatomical structure, and desired outcome. His approach focuses on long-term functionality, proportion, and surgical safety.
Dr Johnny Kwei is a specialist Plastic, Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgeon based in Sydney, Australia. He has experience in breast and body reconstructive procedures. His breast reduction approach is tailored to each patient’s clinical needs and aims to achieve outcomes that support comfort, movement, and structural balance.
To learn more or enquire about a consultation, please get in touch with the clinic. Please contact us or call 1300 375 934.