Reduction Mammaplasty (Breast Reduction) Consultation

Reduction mammaplasty, also known as breast reduction surgery.

What is a reduction mammaplasty consultation?

A reduction mammaplasty consultation is an appointment with a qualified surgeon to review concerns related to breast size, weight or proportion. People may seek this consultation when breast size is associated with physical symptoms such as neck, back or shoulder discomfort, skin irritation, or difficulty with physical activity or clothing fit.

Only a trained surgeon can determine whether reduction mammaplasty is appropriate after reviewing your anatomy, medical history and expectations. The consultation focuses on clinical assessment and suitability rather than promoting any procedure.

What areas does it address?

During the consultation, the surgeon may assess:

• Breast size, weight and proportion relative to your frame
• Breast asymmetry
• Nipple and areola position and size
• Skin quality and the effects of skin irritation under the breasts
• Whether excess tissue extends towards the underarm area
• Whether non-surgical or conservative pathways may be more suitable

The purpose is to understand your individual presentation and determine whether a surgical approach is clinically appropriate.

Who may be referred for a reduction mammaplasty consultation

A GP may refer someone for assessment if they:

• Experience ongoing physical symptoms they associate with breast size
• Have tried conservative measures, such as professionally fitted support garments or physiotherapy
• Are at a stable body weight
• Wish to understand whether surgical or non-surgical options may be suitable

A referral does not mean surgery will be recommended. Suitability is confirmed only after full clinical assessment.

How suitability is determined

Suitability depends on several factors reviewed during consultation, including:

• General health and medical history
• Breast size, shape and tissue characteristics
• Body weight stability and future plans, including pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Smoking status, which may affect wound healing
• Breast imaging history, where relevant to your age and risk factors
• Personal circumstances and expectations

Not all individuals will be candidates. Your surgeon will explain the reasons you may or may not be suitable based on safety requirements and clinical findings.

Understanding what the procedure involves

If the surgeon believes reduction mammaplasty may be appropriate, they will outline the general approach in a medical context. This may include broad information about:

• Common incision patterns and where scars are usually placed
• How breast tissue, fat and skin are removed and the breast is reshaped
• How the nipple and areola are repositioned
• Whether liposuction may be used as part of the procedure
• What is usually expected during early recovery

These discussions support informed consent only. The surgeon will also explain circumstances where reduction mammaplasty is not advised.

Downtime and aftercare

If surgery is advised, general recovery expectations may include:

• Swelling, bruising and discomfort
• Wearing a supportive surgical bra
• Temporary restrictions on lifting and physical activity
• Wound care and scar management
• Scheduled follow-up visits
• Signs that require medical review

Recovery varies between individuals. Personalised instructions are provided during consultation.

Surgical or non-surgical?

Surgical
Reduction mammaplasty is a surgical procedure performed under general anaesthetic in a licensed and accredited medical facility.

Who performs this procedure?

In Australia, reduction mammaplasty must be performed by a registered medical practitioner with appropriate surgical training. This may include:

• Specialist Plastic Surgeons
• Other medical practitioners who have completed recognised additional training in breast surgery within their approved scope of practice

All procedures must occur in accredited hospitals or licensed surgical facilities with appropriate anaesthetic and postoperative support.

Patients are encouraged to:

• Confirm the practitioner’s qualifications
• Ask about their experience with reduction mammaplasty
• Ensure the facility meets Australian accreditation standards
• Discuss postoperative care and follow-up planning

Is a referral required

Yes. People considering elective cosmetic surgery need to follow a regulated pathway designed to support informed and safe decision making. Every person must complete the following steps before any procedure can be booked:

• A current GP referral is required before seeing a surgeon. This helps ensure your broader health needs are reviewed and that cosmetic surgery is the right pathway to explore.

• You must attend a minimum of two consultations with the surgeon who would perform the operation. At least one of these appointments must occur in person. These consultations allow time to review your medical history, assess suitability and discuss risks in detail.

• A cooling off period is required after the final consent appointment. This time is set aside for you to think carefully about the information provided, ask more questions if needed and decide whether to proceed.

These steps apply to all elective cosmetic surgery in Australia. They are in place to support careful consideration and protect patient safety.

Risks and considerations

All surgery carries risks. Reduction mammaplasty may involve:

• Bleeding or haematoma
• Infection or delayed wound healing, particularly where incisions meet
• Visible or raised scarring
• Changes in nipple or breast sensation
• Reduced blood supply to the nipple and areola, which is uncommon but serious
• Asymmetry in size or shape
• Effects on future breastfeeding
• Fat necrosis or seroma
• Blood clots and anaesthetic risks
• The possibility of revision surgery

A full risk discussion forms part of informed consent. All risks will be explained during your consultation, including how they relate to your individual circumstances.

Frequently asked questions

Is breast reduction covered by Medicare in Australia
Medicare may contribute when reduction mammaplasty is performed for documented physical symptoms and specific clinical criteria are met. Procedures performed for aesthetic reasons are not eligible. Medicare eligibility criteria can change over time, so eligibility is confirmed after specialist assessment and should be checked at the time of your consultation.

Does private health insurance cover breast reduction
Private health insurance may contribute to hospital costs when there is an eligible Medicare item, depending on your level of cover and waiting periods. As Medicare and insurer requirements can change, check with your insurer before surgery.

Do I need a GP referral for breast reduction in Australia
Yes. A current GP referral is required before seeing a surgeon for reduction mammaplasty.

Can I breastfeed after a breast reduction
Breast reduction may affect the ability to breastfeed. Your surgeon will discuss how this may apply to you, particularly if you are planning future pregnancies.

Will there be visible scars
Yes, reduction mammaplasty leaves scars, and their pattern depends on the technique used. Your surgeon will explain expected scar placement and guidance for healing.

When can I return to work or exercise
This varies depending on the procedure and the type of work or activity. Your surgeon will provide a personalised recovery timeline.