Breast Reduction Mammoplasty Sydney & Bella Vista
- Elective non-cosmetic procedure
- Possible rebates from Medicare and private health insurance
- Possible hospital fees covered by private health insurance
- One overnight stay in a private hospital encouraged
Breast Reduction Mammoplasty is an operation with one of the highest patient satisfaction ratings when it’s performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. (Mammoplasty) breast reduction surgery aims to reduce the size of the breasts. At the same time, it aims to change the shape and position of the breasts and areolar on the chest wall, which is in line with the patient’s goals. Overly large breasts can cause symptoms such as neck and back pain. It can also cause skin rashes and other day-to-day problems and discomfort. All of these factors can affect a woman’s decision to undergo this procedure.
The techniques used during a (mammoplasty) breast reduction surgery involve removing excess skin and breast tissue. Dr Norris reshapes the remaining breast tissue and moves the areola to suit the new breast.
Potential health benefits of breast reduction mammoplasty surgery
Although (mammoplasty) breast reduction surgery can be cosmetic, it can also have health benefits. This can be the case for women who struggle with daily tasks and comfort due to very large breasts.
Overly large breasts can impact physical health by causing problems such as:
- Poor posture and shoulder pain
- Back pain due to excess weight on the chest
- Asymmetrical pain due to one breast being larger
- Skin chafing and infections under the breasts
The procedure reduces the excess tissue in order to address these problems. By reducing the amount of weight on the chest, some women may find it easier to move around and exercise, helping to improve their health. They may also notice a reduction in health problems associated with back pain and skin irritation.
Breast Reduction Mammoplasty Before and After
Client:1, 32yr, 360g, Teardrop Extra Full Profile Submuscular
Before and After Breast Reduction Treatment
Patient 03, Breast Reduction Mammoplasty Before and after photos post-op 6 weeks, image 07, front view
Breast Reduction Mammoplasty images, patient 08, image 22, front view, before and after photos post-op 6 weeks
Who is a potential candidate?
Despite the potential benefits, not everyone is a candidate for (mammoplasty) breast reduction surgery. You will need to consult with an experienced, qualified surgeon, such as Dr Norris at Form and Face, to find out if you are suitable.
As a basic overview, a good candidate is someone who:
- Has very large breasts that interfere with daily life
- Has poor posture or back problems due to large breasts
- Knows the risks and recovery that come with getting surgery
- Are at a stable and healthy weight
- Has realistic desired outcomes
Any patients who are planning to have children and breastfeed in the future should discuss this with Dr Norris before surgery. If you are unsure about any of these points, and whether they apply to you, you might benefit from a consultation.
What happens at the first consultation?
At your first consultation, Dr Norris will focus on what you hope to achieve and what you would like your breasts to look like. It is important to understand that any discussion about your breasts should take into consideration not only a reduction in size, but also the shape, proportion, and position of the breasts on the chest wall. Dr Norris will evaluate your breasts by taking measurements and photographs for your medical records. He will also assess your skin tone, the condition of your breasts and fatty tissue, and the position of your nipples.
Following this, Dr Norris will explain the exact details of how he performs (mammoplasty) breast reduction surgery. He will also discuss where he will place your scars and what approach we can take to help you achieve your desired outcome. Once you have talked through these details, we will provide you with a detailed quotation. This will outline the surgical costs that might be partly covered by Medicare and your Health Fund.
If you decide to proceed with surgery, Dr Norris will see you again at a second consultation. This allows you to ask any new questions you may have and discuss anything you are not sure about. It also lets you make a final decision on the most appropriate type of reduction for you, and give you a date for your procedure. Dr Norris will help you set realistic expectations about what can be achieved with (mammoplasty) breast reduction surgery and explain what needs to be done to prepare.
Dr Norris insists that all patients stop smoking two months before embarking on any type of cosmetic surgery. There are also certain medications and supplements that patients should avoid in the weeks leading up to surgery. Patients should also limit alcohol.
How much does a mammoplasty breast reduction surgery cost in Sydney & Bella Vista?
Before your breast reduction surgery, you should prepare for the costs involved. Considering the cost of a procedure is one of the most important parts of preparing. This is because, in many cases, patients need to cover their own costs and will need to be financially aware and ready. In some cases, patients may be able to receive help from Medicare or private health, but this will depend on the specific circumstances.
When it comes to the cost of a (mammoplasty) breast reduction surgery, it is difficult to provide a specific number that applies in all cases. Every surgery is slightly different, which means the costs are not the same for everyone. Not all women need the same amount of work done, and some surgeries may be more in-depth and extensive. In line with this, the more extensive the surgery, the more costly it is likely to be. On average, a breast reduction mammoplasty procedure starts at about $10,000. Along with the cost of the surgery and what you want to achieve, we also need to consider other factors:
- The anaesthetist fee
- The surgeon’s fee
- Hospital fees
- Surgery garments
- Medications
You will need to take all of these things into account when discussing surgery costs. Dr Norris will discuss all of these factors with you during your consultation before an accurate quotation is drawn up. There, you can ask further questions and ensure you are clear on the costs before you decide whether or not to proceed.
Since (mammoplasty) breast reduction surgery is often deemed medically necessary, patients can usually apply for a Medicare or private health insurance rebate. However, this may depend on your insurer and whether you qualify. For more on the costs of breast surgery with a qualified breast surgeon, book a consultation with Dr Norris in Sydney.
Does Medicare cover breast reduction surgery?
A common and important question before the procedure is: Will Medicare cover my (mammoplasty) breast reduction surgery? The answer may vary because patients may have different reasons for seeking surgery. Some may get surgery to address posture and back pain, while others seek surgery for aesthetic reasons or personal preference. When it comes to eligibility for Medicare help, the reason for seeking surgery matters.
Medicare does not generally offer rebates for procedures that are cosmetic in nature – that is, procedures that are for cosmetic or aesthetic purposes only. However, (mammoplasty) breast reduction surgery can be medically necessary. For example, a patient may decide to reduce their breast volume due to severe or prolonged back pain. In these cases, Medicare may offer a rebate to help cover the cost of your surgery.
In order to qualify for a Medicare rebate, you will need to demonstrate that you are getting surgery for medical reasons. When you visit your GP, it is a good idea to speak about the physical symptoms you have due to having excess weight on the chest. This makes it easier to determine whether you are eligible to receive help from Medicare.
How is the breast reduction mammoplasty surgery performed?
Dr Norris performs a (mammoplasty) breast reduction surgery only in a fully accredited hospital. The anaesthetist that Dr Norris works with will give you a general anaesthetic, which will encourage a comfortable experience. You can expect the operation to take between three and four hours, depending on how much tissue needs to be removed.
There are a number of (mammoplasty) reduction surgery techniques. Each technique determines where the incisions and subsequent scars will be.
This will most commonly involve restricting your scar to one that encircles the areola (periareolar scar) and one that passes downwards from the areola to the fold beneath the breast (vertical scar).
Anchor Scar – Dr Norris tends to use this technique in severe cases of breast ptosis or very large breasts. The incision is made around the areola, vertically down towards and along the breast crease.
Lollypop Scar – This is Dr Norris’s preferred technique. The majority of (mammoplasty) breast reduction surgery procedures end up with this scar (short scar technique). This is the incision mentioned above that goes around the areola and down to the middle of the breast crease.
Peri Areolar – Dr Norris occasionally uses this technique. It involves making an incision around the outer edge of the areola, where the darker and lighter skin meet.
Not all women have breasts that are suitable for the short-scar technique and will require a more traditional technique such as the anchor incision. A (mammoplasty) breast reduction surgery also usually involves moving the nipples to a higher position on the chest wall. In the vast majority of cases, the nipples remain attached to their blood and nerve supplies when they are moved. In very large breast reduction mammoplasties, this may not be possible. For these patients, Dr Norris removes the nipple-areola complex and grafts it back onto the breast. Unfortunately, this does mean that the patient will lose some, if not all, nipple sensation. Dr Norris may use liposuction in addition to surgical reduction.
At the end of the operation, patients will have a drain beneath each breast, which we can usually remove one to two days later. Dr Norris closes the incisions with absorbable sutures to save you the inconvenience of having to remove them later. He then applies a dressing over the incisions, and you will leave the hospital wearing your supportive surgical bra.
What happens after the surgery?
The length of a patient’s stay in the hospital may depend, but the typical hospital stay is one night. We advise that you have someone drive you home, such as a friend or family member. This is because your movement will be somewhat restricted after surgery, and you will not be able to drive. Then, you may begin your at-home recovery.
Dr Norris will ensure that you have the information you need about how to care for your incisions and healing body. This may include aftercare instructions, follow-up appointments, and a prescription for pain medication. He may also provide a prescription for antibiotics to aid your recovery. You may shower daily, provided that you keep your waterproof dressings dry.
During the healing process, you should avoid certain activities that may increase the likelihood of complications. For example, you will need to stop the following things:
- Driving: You will not be able to drive for one, or maybe two, weeks.
- Sleeping positions: For six weeks, you should only sleep on your back and elevate your upper body on extra pillows. This helps reduce swelling and avoid irritating your incisions.
- Work: Patients may generally go back to work after two weeks. However, you may need longer if you have a very physical job.
- Exercise: You can resume mild exercise after two weeks. Most patients can return to their regular exercise after six weeks or as advised by Dr Norris.
Ensure that you attend any follow-up appointments during your recovery. One week after your procedure, you will have an appointment to check and change your dressings. Additionally, you should wear your support garment for six weeks, as this helps the breasts heal. Dr Norris will give you more details about what to do in recovery and may tailor this advice to suit your needs.
Breast reduction mammoplasty scar management (useful tips)
Patients are sometimes concerned about the appearance of mammoplasty breast reduction scars after surgery. It is important to remember that while results can’t be guaranteed, scars typically fade with time. They will likely appear red and large at first. However, after a few months, they should begin to fade in colour and become paler.
There are a few things you can do to accelerate the scar maturation process. For example, you should:
- Eat healthy and stay hydrated
- Allow your incisions to heal fully
- Use scar creams, gels, or silicone sheets
- Gently massage your scars
- Use laser therapy
Keep in mind that scars only begin to fade after the wound has fully healed. This means you cannot focus on scar management until you have completed your recovery.
Possible surgery complications
It is necessary to know the side effects, risks, and complications of (mammoplasty) breast reduction surgery. There are some expected side effects, which are common to most breast surgery patients. These include symptoms such as swelling, bruising, and discomfort. You can manage these symptoms by being careful with your incision areas, getting rest, and sleeping with your head elevated.
Other more severe effects can also occur, although these are less common. Possible complications include:
- Infection
- Asymmetry
- Keloid scarring
- Haematoma
- Inability to breastfeed
- Numbness or sensitivity
- Slow healing
You may need to seek treatment to address the issue and avoid further complications. Additionally, be aware that it is impossible to achieve perfect symmetry with this procedure, and that results will vary. If you have any concerns or if you notice any unusual symptoms, please contact Dr Norris. He can give you assistance based on your symptoms.
Why choose Dr Norris for mammoplasty breast reduction surgery in Sydney & Bella Vista?
Pursuing plastic surgery is a decision only you can make, in conjunction with the advice of an experienced Plastic Surgeon. If you are looking for a surgeon to perform (mammoplasty) breast reduction surgery, Dr Norris is available to assess your needs, goals, and eligibility for the procedure.
Dr Norris is a qualified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with over 20 years of experience and a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. With a particular focus on cosmetic surgery, he is proficient in minimal-scar techniques and emphasises a high level of patient care. Dr Norris carefully plans each procedure to ensure it is tailored to the individual patient and provides attentive care throughout the surgery and aftercare process.
To book your private consultation with Dr Norris in Sydney, contact our team at either of our Bondi Junction or Bella Vista clinics.
Mammoplasty breast reduction surgery FAQs
You are likely a good candidate for breast reduction surgery if you have overly large breasts causing physical symptoms such as neck, back, or shoulder pain; skin irritation or rashes beneath the breast fold; bra-strap grooving; or difficulty exercising. Ideal candidates are non-smokers (or willing to stop before surgery), at or near a stable, healthy weight, and not planning a pregnancy in the near future. Dr Norris will confirm your suitability during a consultation at our Bondi Junction or Bella Vista clinic in Sydney by assessing your anatomy, symptoms, and goals.
Breast reduction mammoplasty removes excess breast skin, fat, and glandular tissue, then reshapes and lifts the breasts into a more proportionate position on the chest wall. Dr Norris uses minimal-scar techniques wherever possible, typically a lollipop incision (around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease). An anchor incision may be used for larger reductions. The nipple and areola are repositioned higher while staying attached to their blood and nerve supply to preserve sensation. Surgery is performed under general anaesthetic in a fully accredited hospital and usually takes 2–3 hours.
Yes, scarring is unavoidable with any breast reduction, but Dr Norris uses techniques designed to minimise and conceal scars. Most patients have a lollipop scar – a circle around the areola plus a vertical line down to the breast crease. Larger reductions may also need a short horizontal scar along the breast fold (the anchor or inverted-T pattern). Scars are placed within natural contours and under bra and swimwear lines. They typically appear red and raised for the first few months, then gradually fade over 12–18 months. Dr Norris provides detailed scar management guidance throughout your recovery to optimise healing.
Most patients are back to desk work within 1 to 2 weeks and fully recovered in 4 to 6 weeks. Strenuous exercise is restricted for around 6 weeks. Expect bruising, swelling and tenderness for the first 2 to 4 weeks. You can walk lightly from day one. A surgical support bra is worn throughout recovery. Dr Norris sees you at regular post-op appointments and clears you to return to normal activity when ready.
Breastfeeding is often still possible after breast reduction, but milk supply may be reduced and cannot be guaranteed. Dr Norris uses the pedicle technique, which keeps the nipple and areola attached to the underlying breast tissue and preserves the milk ducts and nerves wherever possible. Because some glandular tissue is removed during surgery, milk production can be lower than before. For this reason, Dr Norris recommends that women planning future children discuss timing during their consultation – completing your family before surgery is often advisable. Note that around 20% of women in the general population cannot breastfeed, regardless of having had any surgery.
Yes, Medicare and most private health funds may cover breast reduction surgery when it is deemed medically necessary. The relevant Medicare item numbers are 45520 (or 45523 in certain cases). To qualify, you need documented evidence of chronic physical symptoms – such as persistent back, neck, or shoulder pain, deep bra-strap grooving, or skin irritation – that have not responded to non-surgical management for at least six months. You will need a GP referral, and Dr Norris will confirm during your consultation whether you meet the clinical criteria. If you have appropriate private hospital cover, your fund may also contribute to theatre and hospital fees. You will receive a detailed, itemised quote outlining all costs, Medicare contributions, and estimated health fund rebates at your consultation.
A breast reduction removes breast tissue to decrease size and weight (and always includes a lift), while a breast lift only reshapes and elevates the breasts without removing significant volume. If your main concern is the size, weight, or symptoms caused by large breasts, a breast reduction (mammoplasty) is usually the right procedure. If you are happy with your breast size but they have lost shape or position due to ageing, pregnancy, or weight loss, a breast lift (mastopexy) is generally a better fit. Dr Norris will recommend the procedure, or a combined reduction and lift, that best suits your anatomy and goals during your consultation.
Breast reduction does not increase the risk of breast cancer, and some research suggests it may slightly reduce the relative risk by removing a portion of breast tissue. However, the procedure is not a cancer-prevention surgery, and ongoing mammogram screening remains important. Dr Norris typically recommends a new baseline mammogram around one year post-operatively, as surgery changes the appearance of breast tissue on imaging. You will also be advised on appropriate follow-up breast health checks as part of your aftercare plan.
It is uncommon for breasts to return to their original size after reduction surgery, but it can happen in certain circumstances. The most common triggers are significant hormonal changes – pregnancy, breastfeeding, or hormonal medications – and major weight gain. For most women who maintain a stable weight and have completed their family before surgery, breast reduction results are long-lasting. Dr Norris discusses timing and lifestyle factors during your consultation to help you achieve the most durable outcome.
Some change in nipple sensation is common after breast reduction. Numbness, tingling or heightened sensitivity can occur in the weeks post-surgery as nerves adjust. Full sensation typically returns within several months. In around 5 to 10% of cases, changes may be longer-lasting or permanent. Dr Norris uses the pedicle technique to preserve the nipple’s blood and nerve supply throughout.
No, you do not need to be at a specific weight to be eligible for breast reduction, but being at or near a stable, healthy weight generally leads to safer surgery and longer-lasting results. If you are significantly above your healthy weight range, Dr Norris may recommend losing weight before surgery, as higher body weight can increase surgical and anaesthetic risks, slow wound healing, and leave residual fullness in the chest from fatty tissue rather than glandular tissue. If you are near a stable weight, surgery may still be appropriate. Dr Norris will assess your individual situation during your consultation.
Breast reduction results are typically long-lasting, and most patients enjoy them for many years, provided weight stays stable and major hormonal changes (such as pregnancy) do not occur after surgery. Over time, natural ageing and gravity can soften the breast contour, as with any breast. Significant weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or certain hormonal medications can also alter the outcome. For the most durable result, Dr Norris recommends completing your family before surgery, maintaining a stable weight, and wearing supportive bras for everyday activity and exercise.
Yes, breast reduction is commonly combined with other procedures when clinically appropriate. Common combinations include: a more formal breast lift (mastopexy) when there is significant ptosis alongside large volume; liposuction to contour the surrounding chest and axillary (underarm) area; and, as part of a staged body contouring plan after major weight loss or pregnancy, a tummy tuck or arm lift. Dr Norris will discuss what is safe and appropriate to combine during your consultation, taking into account your overall health and recovery capacity.
Breast reduction in Sydney typically costs between approximately $15,000 and $25,000+ as an all-inclusive figure. The final out-of-pocket cost depends on whether you qualify for a Medicare rebate (item number 45520 or 45523), your level of private health insurance hospital cover, the complexity of your procedure, and whether it is combined with other surgeries. Costs generally include the surgeon’s fee, anaesthetist’s fee, hospital and theatre fees, surgical garments, and follow-up appointments. If you are medically eligible, Medicare and your private health fund may significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses. You will receive a detailed, itemised quote at your consultation with Dr Norris.
Breast reduction surgery itself is not painful, as it is performed under general anaesthetic, but most patients experience moderate, manageable discomfort during the first few days of recovery. Pain is typically described as soreness, tightness, and pressure across the chest rather than sharp pain, and it is usually well controlled with prescribed pain relief. Most patients transition to over-the-counter pain medication within the first week and report being comfortable enough to stop pain relief within 7–10 days. Wearing your surgical support bra, sleeping in an elevated position, and following Dr Norris’s recovery instructions all help to minimise discomfort.
The amount of breast tissue removed during a breast reduction varies by patient, but typically ranges from around 200g to over 1,000g per breast. Dr Norris tailors the volume removed to your body proportions, presenting symptoms, and aesthetic goals – the aim is a comfortable, balanced result rather than hitting a specific weight. For Medicare-eligible procedures (item 45520), the amount removed must align with documented medical need. During your consultation, Dr Norris will discuss your target cup size and show you what is realistically achievable based on your anatomy and skin quality.
Here at Form & Face, we provide patients with a
Ongoing Patient Care
This means that we will be there for you far beyond the recovery period.
You can rest assured knowing that you can come to us about any
post-surgical concerns for the rest of your life.