Question 1

Can I breast feed after a breast reduction?

Accepted Answer

The short answer is yes. For example a short study undertaken in the Reconstructive Surgery Journal took 150 women who had undergone a breast reduction surgery, along with 150 women who had not undergone the surgery and were of similar weight and age. The study reviewed the ability for the women to breast feed.

The results were similar between both groups:

1/3 could breast feed with no issues
1/3 needed formula supplementation
1/3 couldn't breast feed

Question 2

What are the different type of scars?

Accepted Answer

Regrettably you can't have a breast reductio without a scar burden. All scars take time to change colour as they heal. The scars begin as red, then turn purple, and then blue, before finally turning white. This overall healing process can take about one year.

The different patterns for incisions that could leave scars include:

Vertical of lollypop shape
Inverted T or anchor shape

Question 3

Will I keep nipple sensation after a breast reduction?

Accepted Answer

Generally yes as the nipple isn't removed nor is the blood or nerve supply. However, some patients may take longer to have nipple sensation return due to particularly heavy reductions. Also some patients have increased sensitivity after a reduction as the nerve supply isn't stretch as much anymore.

Question 4

What if I have already had a reduction, can I have another reduction?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but it comes down to 2 main factors:

How long between operations. After a year there is no issue.
What nipple blood supply was used in the initial consultation.

Where possible it is best to use the same blood supply but sometimes this isn't possible because patients don't have access to their original operation report. You can use a different blood supply provided you have waited at least a year between operations.

Question 5

Can I pick what size I want?

Accepted Answer

Yes you can but this will only guide your surgeon on the results you are after. No one can predict the cup size post-op because all bra manufacturers have different volumes for each size. As a general guide each 150-200gm reduction equates to 1 cup size.

Question 6

How long before I see my results?

Accepted Answer

It will take around 3 to 6 months. During the first 3 months the breast may be 'boxy' at the bottom. However, this always settles and takes a nicer shape around the 6 month mark.

Breast Reduction

Breast Reduction Sydney