Breast Reduction Surgery NSW

Breast Reduction Surgery in Sydney with Dr Kernohan

Breast reduction surgery, also called reduction mammoplasty, is a breast surgery procedure for patients concerned about breast size, breast heaviness, discomfort, skin irritation, or activity-related limits. It reduces breast size and weight by removing breast tissue, fat, and skin, and may help address physical symptoms linked to breast size.

Dr Michael Kernohan holds qualifications including MBBS, MSc, BDS, FDSRCS, FRCS Plast, and FRACS Plast. He consults from Gregory Hills / Gledswood Hills and Surry Hills, and performs procedures at accredited hospitals in Sydney and South West Sydney, including The George Centre, Camden Surgical Day Hospital and St Vincent’s Private Hospital (by request only).

At a Glance: Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery is a hospital-based procedure that may be considered by patients with large or heavy breasts who experience physical symptoms or difficulty with some daily activities.

The operation is planned around each patient’s anatomy, medical history, breast size, skin quality, and goals discussed during consultation.

Dr Michael Kernohan, Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon in Sydney, provides individual assessment for patients considering breast reduction surgery. This includes a discussion about suitability, incision options, likely scars, recovery, possible complications, and whether further medical information is needed before surgery.

At a glance:

Procedure name: Breast reduction surgery or reduction mammoplasty
Surgeon: Dr Michael Kernohan, Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
Location: Sydney, NSW
Anaesthetic: General anaesthetic
Hospital stay: Day surgery or overnight stay, depending on the patient and surgical plan
Recovery: Varies depending on healing, work duties, activity level, and the type of surgery performed
Scars: Permanent scars are expected
Risks: Include bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, scarring, asymmetry, and changes in nipple sensation
Suitability: Confirmed after consultation and clinical assessment
Medicare: Some patients may meet Medicare item criteria, but eligibility must be assessed individually

Download Dr Michael Kernohan’s Breast Reduction Surgery Guide

Who is Breast Reduction Surgery For?

Breast reduction surgery may be considered by patients with large or heavy breasts who experience physical symptoms. These may include neck pain, shoulder pain, upper back pain, skin irritation, or pressure from bra straps. Some patients also report difficulty with certain physical activities because of breast size or weight.

Not every patient with large breasts is suitable for surgery. A consultation is needed to assess your symptoms, general health, breast anatomy, skin quality, expectations, and understanding of the recovery process. Dr Michael Kernohan will also discuss whether further medical review or imaging is needed before surgery.

Patients may consider breast reduction surgery if they experience:

Neck, shoulder, upper back, or breast pain.
Bra strap grooving or skin irritation under the breast fold.
Difficulty finding supportive bras or clothing.
Discomfort during some physical activities.
Breast heaviness that affects daily comfort.

Dr Michael Kernohan in an operating theatre

What is Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction surgery is an operation that reduces breast size and weight. During the procedure, breast tissue, fat, and skin are removed. The nipple and areola are usually made smaller and repositioned while remaining attached to underlying tissue where possible.

The surgical technique depends on the individual patient. Breast size, breast position, nipple position, skin quality, asymmetry, and the amount of tissue being removed all influence the surgical plan. Dr Michael Kernohan will explain which approach may be suitable during consultation.

Breast reduction surgery may involve:

Removing breast tissue, fat, and excess skin.
Repositioning the nipple and areola.
Reducing the areola size in some cases.
Closing the skin with planned scar placement.
Applying dressings and a post-operative support bra.

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How Do I Know If Breast Reduction Surgery Is Right For Me?

Factors considered when assessing suitability for breast reduction surgery

The only way to know whether breast reduction surgery may be suitable is to have a consultation with an appropriately qualified medical practitioner. Dr Michael Kernohan will assess your symptoms, breast anatomy, medical history, current medications, and general health before discussing whether surgery may be appropriate.

It is also important to understand what surgery can and cannot do. Breast reduction surgery can reduce breast size and weight, but it cannot guarantee relief from all symptoms. Future changes may also occur due to weight change, pregnancy, breastfeeding, hormonal changes, ageing, and individual healing.

Suitability depends on factors such as:

Your symptoms and how long they have been present.
Breast size, skin quality, and nipple position.
Your general health and medical history.
Smoking or vaping status.
Your understanding of scars, recovery, and risks.

What Happens At My Consultation With Dr Michael Kernohan?

Your consultation with Dr Michael Kernohan is designed to assess your concerns, symptoms, medical history, and suitability for surgery. Dr Kernohan is a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon in Sydney and will discuss the procedure in relation to your individual anatomy and health needs.

During the consultation, you may be asked about breast symptoms, previous breast changes, medical conditions, medications, allergies, smoking or vaping, and family history of breast disease. A breast examination may be required. Clinical photographs may also be taken with consent as part of surgical planning.

Your consultation may include discussion about:

Your reasons for considering breast reduction surgery.
Breast size, position, skin quality, and asymmetry.
Possible incision patterns and scar placement.
Risks and possible complications.
Recovery, follow-up, and time away from work.

Listen To The Common Reasons Women Have Breast Reduction Surgery

Common reasons why women have breast reduction Image for Youtube Video - Dr Kernohan image — Watch Dr Kernohan Explain the Common Reasons Why Women Have Breast Surgery – YouTube

What Breast Reduction Techniques Might Be Used?

There are different breast reduction techniques. The technique used depends on the amount of tissue to be removed, breast size, nipple position, skin quality, and the degree of breast droop. The aim is to reduce breast size and weight while planning scars in appropriate positions.

The two common scar patterns are the anchor pattern and the vertical pattern. The anchor pattern, also called an inverted-T pattern, usually involves a scar around the areola, a vertical scar down the lower breast, and a scar along the breast fold. The vertical pattern usually involves a scar around the areola and down the lower breast.

Technique selection depends on:

The amount of breast tissue and skin to be removed.
Current breast size and nipple position.
Skin quality and degree of breast droop.
Breast asymmetry.
The surgical plan discussed during consultation.

Breast Reduction Incision - Wise Pattern Anchor Incision - Best Breast Reduction Surgeon Sydney Dr Kernohan Campbelltown - Breast Reduction Sydney — Breast Reduction Incision 1- Wise or Anchor pattern

Breast Reduction Vertical Scar Pattern - Best Lollipop Breast Reduction in Sydney Dr Kernohan - Breast Reduction Sydney — Breast Reduction Incision 2 – Vertical Scar or Hall Finlay technique – Modified Lejour Lollipop pattern

What Happens During Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anaesthetic in a hospital setting. Once the anaesthetic has started, the planned incisions are made. Breast tissue, fat, and excess skin are removed according to the surgical plan.

The nipple and areola are usually repositioned while maintaining a tissue connection where possible. The skin is then closed with sutures. Dressings are applied, and a support bra is usually used after surgery. Some patients may need drains for a short time, depending on the surgical plan.

During surgery, the process may include:

General anaesthetic in an accredited hospital.
Planned incisions based on the chosen technique.
Removal of breast tissue, fat, and skin.
Nipple and areola repositioning.
Dressings and a post-operative support bra.

Overview of breast reduction surgical techniques (scar patterns)

What Is Recovery Like After Breast Reduction Surgery?

Recovery after breast reduction surgery varies between patients. It depends on the extent of surgery, healing response, general health, work duties, family responsibilities, and whether any complications occur. Some patients return to light duties earlier than others, while patients with physical jobs may need more time away from work.

Swelling, bruising, tightness, tenderness, and changes in sensation are common in the early recovery period. These symptoms usually change over time, but healing is individual. Dr Michael Kernohan and his team will provide post-operative instructions based on your surgery and recovery progress.

Early recovery may involve:

Resting at home and taking medication as prescribed.
Wearing a support bra as instructed.
Avoiding heavy lifting and upper body strain.
Attending follow-up appointments.
Watching for signs of infection, bleeding, or wound concerns.

Sleeping position may also need to be adjusted during early recovery. Read more about sleeping after breast reduction surgery.

When Will Swelling And Scars Settle After Breast Reduction Surgery?

Swelling after breast reduction surgery changes gradually. In the early recovery period, the breasts may appear swollen, firm, high, or uneven. Over weeks to months, swelling usually changes, and the breast position may also change as tissues heal.

Scars also change over time. Early scars may look red, pink, firm, raised, or sensitive. Scar appearance depends on skin type, genetics, incision pattern, wound healing, tension on the wound, sun exposure, and whether any wound healing problems occur.

Swelling and scar healing may be affected by:

The extent of surgery.
Individual healing response.
Smoking or vaping.
Wound healing or infection.
Skin type and previous scar history.

Will I Have Scars After Breast Reduction Surgery?

Yes. Breast reduction surgery leaves permanent scars. The position and length of scars depend on the surgical technique used and the amount of breast tissue and skin removed. Common scar patterns include a scar around the areola, a vertical scar down the lower breast, and sometimes a horizontal scar along the breast fold.

Scars usually change over time, but they do not disappear. Some scars may become raised, widened, firm, red, darker, pale, itchy, or sensitive. Some patients are more prone to thickened or keloid-type scarring. Dr Michael Kernohan will explain expected scar placement during consultation.

Breast reduction scars may include:

A scar around the areola.
A vertical scar down the lower breast.
A horizontal scar along the breast fold in some techniques.
Changes in colour, firmness, or sensitivity over time.
Raised or widened scars in some patients.

What Are The Risks And Complications Of Breast Reduction Surgery?

All surgical procedures carry risks. Breast reduction surgery has general surgical risks and procedure-specific risks. These risks should be discussed carefully before deciding whether to proceed. Patients should also seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner before surgery.

Some risks are uncommon but serious. Others, such as swelling, bruising, scarring, and temporary sensation changes, are more common and less serious. Dr Michael Kernohan will explain all the risks that apply to your situation based on your health, anatomy, surgical plan, smoking status, and other factors.

Possible risks and complications include:

Bleeding, infection, or delayed wound healing.
Scarring, wound separation, or changes in scar appearance.
Breast asymmetry or changes in nipple sensation.
Fat necrosis, fluid collection, or persistent pain.
Anaesthetic risks, blood clots, or need for further surgery.

Can My Breasts Change After Breast Reduction Surgery?

Yes. Breasts can change after breast reduction surgery. Surgery can reduce breast size and weight, but it cannot stop future changes caused by weight change, pregnancy, breastfeeding, hormonal changes, ageing, skin quality, or individual healing.

It is important to understand that no surgical result remains unchanged forever. The body continues to change over time. Dr Michael Kernohan will discuss factors that may affect longer-term breast appearance during consultation.

Breasts may change due to:

Weight gain or weight loss.
Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Hormonal changes.
Ageing and skin quality.
Individual healing and scar tissue.

Breast Reduction Before and After Photos

Before and after photos may help some patients understand possible surgical changes, scar patterns, and variation between patients. Photos should be viewed as examples only. They do not predict what your result will look like.

Your outcome will depend on your anatomy, breast size, skin quality, healing, surgical plan, and whether complications occur. Any before and after photographs should be reviewed with appropriate context and should include reminders that results vary.

How Much Does Breast Reduction Surgery Cost?

How Much Does it Cost Dr Kernohan Sydney

The cost of breast reduction surgery varies because each patient’s surgical plan is different. Fees may depend on the hospital, anaesthetist, theatre time, procedure complexity, and whether an overnight stay is needed.

A written estimate is provided after consultation with Dr Michael Kernohan, once your symptoms, medical history, and surgical plan have been assessed. Medicare eligibility cannot be guaranteed before assessment.

Cost factors may include:

Surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital, and theatre fees.
Procedure complexity and theatre time.
Day surgery or overnight hospital stay.
Medicare item number eligibility, if applicable.

Where Does Dr Michael Kernohan See Breast Reduction Patients?

Dr Michael Kernohan consults with patients from Sydney and surrounding NSW regions. Many breast reduction patients come from Gregory Hills, Campbelltown, Camden, Liverpool, Bowral, Surry Hills, and other parts of Sydney.

Local access is important because breast reduction surgery involves more than the operation itself. Patients need to attend consultation, hospital admission, wound checks, post-operative reviews, and follow-up appointments as advised. Planning travel and home support is part of preparing for surgery.

Patients may attend from:

Gregory Hills and Campbelltown.
Camden, Narellan, and Oran Park.
Liverpool and wider South West Sydney.
Bowral and the Southern Highlands.
Surry Hills, Sydney, and regional NSW.

Who is Dr Michael Kernohan?

Dr Michael Kernohan is a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon based in Sydney. He consults with patients considering breast reduction surgery and other plastic and reconstructive procedures. His approach involves individual assessment, careful surgical planning, and clear discussion of risks.

For breast reduction patients, Dr Michael Kernohan reviews symptoms, breast size, skin quality, nipple position, asymmetry, medical history, and recovery needs. He also discusses scar patterns, possible complications, and whether surgery is appropriate for the patient’s circumstances.

Dr Michael Kernohan’s consultation process may include:

Review of symptoms and medical history.
Breast examination and surgical planning.
Discussion of scar placement and risks.
Recovery and follow-up planning.
Referral for imaging or medical review if required.

What Questions Should I Ask Before Breast Reduction Surgery?

Asking questions before breast reduction surgery helps you make an informed decision. It also helps you understand the procedure, possible benefits, limits, risks, recovery, and long-term considerations. There is no need to rush the decision.

It may be helpful to bring a written list of questions to your consultation with Dr Michael Kernohan. You may also wish to bring a GP referral, medication list, previous breast imaging, and details of any previous surgery or medical conditions.

Useful questions include:

Am I suitable for breast reduction surgery?
What incision pattern may be used in my case?
Where are the scars likely to be?
What are the risks in my situation?
How long should I plan away from work or physical duties?

Breast Reduction Surgery FAQs

Can breast reduction surgery affect how bras fit after surgery?

Yes. Bra size and fit can change after breast reduction surgery, but the final size cannot be guaranteed. Patients are usually advised to wait until swelling has settled before being fitted for new bras.

Why can one breast heal differently from the other after breast reduction surgery?

Each breast can swell, bruise, and heal at a different rate. Mild differences during recovery are common, but sudden swelling, increasing pain, or wound changes should be reported to the surgical team.

Can breast reduction surgery affect posture?

Some patients seek breast reduction surgery because breast weight affects their posture or comfort. Surgery may reduce breast weight, but posture can also be influenced by muscle strength, spinal issues, work habits, and other health factors.

Will my nipple position look high at first after breast reduction surgery?

The breasts may look high, firm, or swollen early after surgery. Position and shape usually change as swelling settles, but healing varies between patients.

Can breast reduction surgery affect skin sensation under the breast fold?

Yes. Sensation changes can occur around the breast, nipple, areola, scars, and lower breast skin. These changes may be temporary or permanent.

Why do I need to avoid lifting after breast reduction surgery?

Lifting can place strain on the healing wounds and chest area. Avoiding lifting early in recovery may help reduce stress on the incisions while the tissues are healing.

Can breast reduction surgery change how I sleep?

Yes. Patients are often advised to sleep on their back with support during early recovery. Side or stomach sleeping may be uncomfortable or restricted until cleared by the surgical team.

Can breast reduction surgery affect exercise clothing or sports bras?

Yes. Breast size and support needs may change after surgery. New sports bras should usually be fitted after swelling has reduced and your surgeon has cleared you for activity.

Why might I need breast imaging before breast reduction surgery?

Breast imaging may be recommended depending on your age, symptoms, medical history, or screening status. This helps assess breast health before surgery.

Can breast reduction surgery affect future breast checks?

Yes. Scars and internal tissue changes can appear on future breast imaging. Patients should tell their GP, breast screening provider, or radiologist that they have had breast reduction surgery.

How Do I Plan A Breast Reduction Consultation?

Planning a breast reduction consultation can help you organise your symptoms, questions, medical history, and recovery needs. Before your appointment, it may be useful to note how long your symptoms have been present and what you would like to discuss.

During your consultation with Dr Michael Kernohan, you can discuss whether breast reduction surgery may be suitable, what technique may be considered, where scars may be placed, and what risks may apply to your situation. You should also take time to consider the information and seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner before proceeding.

Before consultation, consider preparing:

Your symptoms and how long they have been present.
Current medications, allergies, and medical history.
Previous breast imaging, if available.
Questions about scars, recovery, breastfeeding, and risks.