Very large breasts can be problematic and cause a number of medical problems, including back and shoulder pain, poor posture and difficulty when exercising. Women with large breasts can also feel very self-conscious about them, leading to issues with self-confidence and negative body image.
Breast reduction is the surgical procedure used to remove fat, glandular tissue and skin from the breasts. The end result of breast reduction surgery is smaller breasts that are consequently lighter and more in proportion with your overall body shape and size. If necessary, the size of the areola (the skin surrounding the nipple) can also be reduced, and the nipple can be repositioned.
Breast reduction surgery has a very high level of patient satisfaction. Most patients report significant improvements in their quality of life and self-confidence after the procedure.
During your consultation, Dr Timms may use the 3D Vectra Imaging System to generate a three-dimensional simulation of how your breasts are likely to look post-reduction. He may also show you pictures of (non-identifiable) previous patients who have undergone breast reduction surgery, which will help you to understand the procedure and see realistic results.
We recommend that you undertake a course of Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) using our standalone Healite II LED both before and after surgery to improve healing time. This can also assist with pain relief and reduce inflammation, bruising and scarring.
You will wake after your surgery with dressings over your surgical site/s. Depending on the nature of the procedure you may also wake up with drainage tubes coming from your surgical site. These are removed with little discomfort when Dr Timms feels they are ready to be removed after your surgery. Nurses looking after you are trained to ensure that your recovery is smooth and that you are as comfortable as possible postoperatively. Our clinic nurse is always available to answer any questions or concerns you may have whether you are recovering at home or within the hospital setting.
Dr Timms undertakes regular ward rounds, so he will be monitoring you very closely postoperatively.
Your anaesthetist will have prescribed medication for you to keep you comfortable – you will have pain relief medication prescribed for you for discharge also.
An appointment will be made for you to be reviewed by Dr Timms nurse in the rooms 7-10 days after your surgery. This appointment is usually arranged for you at your consultation appointment with Dr Timms. Sometimes it is arranged by the nursing staff that discharge you from hospital. This depends on the nature of your procedure and the duration of your stay in hospital.
A soft surgical grade compression garment is usually indicated for breast, body and some facial procedures. These garments are to be worn for 24/7 for six weeks and can be removed for showering. These are specialised garments and we will advise you where to purchase these garments, how to wear the garments and what type you require when you book your procedure with Dr Timms. Many garments are claimable via your private health insurance depending on your level of cover and whether your procedure is medical or cosmetic.
You will need to be prepared to avoid driving for a period of anywhere between 1-3 weeks post surgery. The duration of this time depends on the nature of your surgery, medications you are taking for pain relief and your level of confidence behind the wheel post-surgery. It is advisable that you refrain from heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for 6 weeks.
Most activities can be recommenced after your 6 week review with Dr Timms.
If you are unhappy with a procedure you’ve received from another surgeon we are happy to consult and let you know, the best way to correct those procedures using Dr Timm’s excellent surgical expertise.
“Nothing makes me happier than the confident smile, my patients give me, when they see their results”
Dr Ian Timms