Is breast reduction surgery for me?

You may be a good candidate for breast reduction surgery in Perth if:

  • You have large breasts that create difficulties or discomfort in your daily life.
  • You are in good health, including being a non-smoker.
  • You have realistic expectations.

Dr Colbert performs breast reduction surgery to help reduce issues caused by large breasts:

  • Are your breasts heavy or wide? Dr Colbert removes excess breast tissue to reduce the size of your breasts, and can also reduce their overall width.
  • Are your breasts droopy or pendulous? Dr Colbert reshapes your breast skin into a tighter and less lax shape.
  • Do you have large or stretched areola? Dr Colbert can reduce the size of your areola, while also elevating the nipple and areola into a higher position.
  • Are your breasts flat or have lost volume? Dr Colbert can use your own breast tissue like an implant, aiming to increase volume in the upper part of your breast (auto-augmentation).
  • Are your breasts wide, with excess armpit tissue? Dr Colbert can use liposuction to reduce your side breast tissue (also known as axillary tail).

What does breast reduction surgery in Perth involve?

Dr Colbert sees every breast reduction patient at least twice before surgery. During these appointments the procedure is discussed, before and after photographs are reviewed, and all of your questions are answered.

Dr Colbert performs all breast reductions under general anaesthesia, provided by a Specialist ANZCA trained Anaesthesist, in a fully accredited hospital. The procedure takes approximately 3 hours, and is usually overnight surgery.

The breast reduction operation involves removing excess breast tissue and skin, elevating the nipple into a new position, and reshaping your breast. Your incisions depend largely on your breast size and shape, and are discussed with you during your pre-operative consultations.

After the procedure you will wake up in the recovery room, with your own recovery nurse by your side. Dr Colbert sees you after the procedure, and a supportive post-surgical bra is applied.

What are the risks of breast reduction surgery?

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Scarring, including abnormal scarring
  • Changes in nipple sensation
  • Poor wound healing
  • Asymmetry
  • Partial or total nipple loss
  • Changes in breast appearance over time
  • Need for revision surgery
  • Reduced ability to breast feed

Breast surgery is like any surgical procedures in that it carries risks – therefore before having any operation you should always speak to an appropriately qualified health practitioner about these potential risks.

What is the recovery after breast reduction surgery?

Recovery after breast reduction surgery typically involves the following stages:

  • Immediate Post-Surgery
    • You will experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications.
  • First Week:
    • Swelling and bruising will begin to subside. You should rest and avoid strenuous activities.
  • 2-4 Weeks:
    • You can usually return to work and light activities after 2 weeks, but avoid vigorous exercise or heavy lifting.
  • 6-8 Weeks:
    • Most patients can resume more normal activities, including exercise. Final results are still settling, and full healing may take a few months.
  • Long-Term Recovery:
    • It can take several months for all swelling to subside and the final breast shape to emerge.

Why should I see Dr Colbert for my breast reduction?

Many Perth women see Dr Colbert for breast reduction surgery because they want expert care by a fully qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon.

  • Dr Colbert MBBS FRACS (Plastic Surgery) is an Australian trained and fully qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon.
  • Dr Colbert is one of only a few Specialist Plastic Surgeons in Australia who focuses exclusively on breast and body surgery.
  • Dr Colbert and his staff are renowned for their amazing patient care, delivered in a comfortable and stress-free environment.

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When will I see the final results after breast reduction surgery?

While initial results are visible soon after surgery, swelling and healing take time. The final shape and position of your breasts will become apparent within 3-6 months. During this period the breast shape settles into position, and the scars slowly begin to become less visible.

Can I breastfeed after breast reduction?

Most women will be able to breast feed after breast reduction surgery. Factors that may affect this include the amount of tissue removed, and if the nipple or areola had problems healing after surgery. Dr Colbert discusses this with all patients during the pre-operative consultations.

Can I get a breast lift at the same time as a breast reduction?

Yes, Dr Colbert performs all breast reductions to also result in a breast lift, with the nipple position elevated, and the breast tissue reshaped and excess lax tissue removed.

How much does breast reduction surgery cost?

The costs of breast reduction surgery in Perth can be confusing. To help make things clearer we have listed the the following fees that make up the final cost.

  • Surgical fee: The surgical fee covers the surgical operation and post-operative care. The pricing will vary from case to case, but Dr Colbert’s fee starts from $7,000 – $8000, but may be higher depending on patient and surgical factors. A specific cost can only be provided after a consultation with Dr Colbert. The final cost is often further reduced due to Medicare and private health insurance rebates available for breast reduction surgery in Perth, provided that you meet the eligibility criteria for Medicare item number 45523.
  • Anaesthetic fee: The anaesthetic fee is partially subsidised by Medicare and private health funds, with an out of pocket cost (also known as a ‘gap’) to pay. Dr Colbert’s Anaesthetist will discuss this with you before your operation.
  • Hospital fee (this includes operation room fee, bed costs, surgical or medication fees, and any other hospital extras): Medicare does not cover this fee. If you have private health insurance then this may be covered by your insurance fund, but you should check with your fund if there is any out of pocket expenses. If you have no private insurance then you will have to pay this fee on discharge from the hospital.
How long will the results of breast reduction last?

The results of breast reduction are long-lasting, although factors like weight fluctuations, aging, or pregnancy can affect the appearance of your breasts over time. Maintaining a stable weight can help preserve the results.

Will I need follow-up appointments after surgery?

Yes, follow-up appointments are important to monitor healing, change dressings, and ensure proper recovery. Dr Colbert will see you at every review during your recovery, which is initially weekly, then fortnightly, then monthly.

How can I prevent or minimize scarring after breast reduction?

While scars are inevitable, Dr Colbert will place incisions in discreet areas (around the areola and under the breast fold). After your procedure Dr Colbert uses surgical tape for two weeks, then uses silicon gels, to help reduce the visibility of scars.

Where can I find out more?

If you want to know more about breast reduction surgery in Perth, then a consultation with Dr Colbert is a great place to start.

To find out more, or to arrange a consultation, please contact our friendly office staff.

Alternatively you can leave a message by simply filling out the contact form.

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