Breast Reduction Sydney | Mammaplasty Surgery Specialists

Q: How long is recovery, and when can I return to work and exercise?

Most patients return to desk-based work and light activities within 1–2 weeks; physically demanding jobs generally need 4–6 weeks off. Normal exercise typically resumes at 4–6 weeks, with high-intensity training closer to 6–8 weeks. Initial swelling settles within weeks, but final results take 3–6 months to fully show. You'll wear a surgical bra and avoid strenuous activity for the first 6 weeks, and some surgeons place temporary drains that are usually removed within 1–2 days.

Q: Will I have visible scars after breast reduction?

Yes, typically around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the crease. These fade significantly over 12–18 months and are usually well-concealed under clothing and swimwear with proper scar management. Read more in what to know about reduction scars .

Q: Am I a good candidate, and can I combine reduction with a lift or implants?

Ideal candidates have disproportionately large breasts causing physical symptoms, are in good health, at a stable weight, and have finished breastfeeding if applicable. Many patients also combine surgery with a breast reduction and lift to address sagging, or with implants to restore upper-pole volume once the reduction is complete. Which combination suits you depends on your tissue quality and goals, and is best confirmed in consultation.

Q: Is breast reduction surgery painful?

Most patients experience moderate discomfort rather than severe pain after mammaplasty surgery in Sydney, which is well-managed with prescribed medication. Expect soreness, tightness and swelling for the first week, easing significantly after 3–5 days and resolving to mild achiness within 2–3 weeks.

Q: Does breast reduction affect breastfeeding?

It can, depending on the surgical technique used. Some methods preserve more milk ducts and nipple sensation than others. If future breastfeeding is a priority, discuss this during your consultation so your surgeon can factor it into technique selection.

Q: How long do results last?

Results are generally long-lasting, though breasts can change with ageing, weight fluctuations, pregnancy or hormonal changes. Maintaining a stable weight and wearing proper support helps preserve your result, and many patients enjoy their outcome for decades.

Q: What are the risks of breast reduction surgery?

Risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, asymmetry, changes in nipple sensation, difficulty breastfeeding, and rarer complications such as tissue necrosis or blood clots. Choosing an experienced, appropriately qualified surgeon and following post-operative instructions significantly reduces these risks for most patients.

Breast Reduction Surgery That Improves Quality of Life

Do you feel weighed down, uncomfortable, or in pain as a result of overly large breasts?

Living with overly large breasts can affect more than just your physical appearance. Many women struggle with chronic neck, shoulder and back pain, skin irritation, and the physical discomfort and limitations that come with it. The emotional toll is just as significant: feeling self-conscious, avoiding certain outfits, and even limiting exercise.

At BB Clinic, we understand that breast reduction surgery isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about reclaiming your comfort, confidence and quality of life. As Sydney breast reduction and general surgery specialists, we take a holistic approach to breast reduction in NSW, taking into account your unique physical needs, lifestyle and desired outcomes so you don’t just look better, you feel better.

In some cases, men may also benefit from breast reduction surgery. We offer gynaecomastia surgery for men who carry excess unwanted breast tissue, skin or fat from the chest area, using techniques appropriate to their anatomy.

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What Is a Breast Reduction Mammaplasty?

Also known as breast reduction surgery, mammaplasty is a specialised surgical procedure that removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin to achieve breasts that are more proportionate to your body frame. Unlike purely cosmetic breast procedures, reduction mammaplasty is often performed to address significant physical and medical concerns that impact your day-to-day life and health.

This procedure has the potential to significantly change a woman’s life, relieving back, neck and shoulder pain while reducing unwanted attention. Initial results are noticeable immediately post-surgery, and depending on personal preferences and needs, some patients pair their mammoplasty with a breast lift surgery or with breast implants.

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Hear Dr Yunaev talk about

“Breast Reduction Mammaplasty: What You Need To Know”

Reasons You May Consider Breast Reduction Surgery

Women who seek out a breast reduction in NSW generally experience one or more of the following challenges:

Chronic pain: Large breasts can put excessive strain on the neck, back and shoulders, leading to poor posture and persistent discomfort.
Skin irritation and infections: Constant friction and moisture build-up under the breasts can cause rashes, chafing and even fungal infections.
Limited physical activity: Many women find it difficult to exercise, run, or find well-fitting, supportive sports bras, leading to a more sedentary lifestyle.
Emotional distress: Large breasts can cause self-consciousness, difficulty finding flattering clothing, and can affect intimate relationships.
Postpartum and hormonal changes: Pregnancy and hormonal fluctuations can increase breast size, making them heavy, sagging or disproportionate. If you’re planning a more extensive post-baby transformation, we can discuss it as part of a mummy makeover.

Many women live with these challenges for years before seeking professional help, but these are valid medical issues. At BB Clinic, we regularly see the difference this surgery makes to a patient’s quality of life.

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Our Approach to Breast Reduction Surgery

As specialist breast reduction surgeons in Sydney, we understand that considering surgery is a big and highly personal decision. We adopt a holistic approach to breast reduction surgery in Australia, addressing both aesthetic and functional aspects, with a focus on three objectives:

Reducing breast size
Creating aesthetically pleasing, natural-looking results
Maintaining breast function and sensation

Put simply, our goal is to help you feel comfortable, confident and free in your own body.

Breast Reduction With Implants: When Added Volume Makes Sense

Not every patient wants a smaller chest and nothing else. Some women come to us wanting the relief of a reduction, but also want to correct volume loss in the upper breast or restore a fuller, rounder shape once the excess weight and sagging tissue are gone. This is where a breast reduction with implants can be considered.

A combined breast reduction and implants procedure is generally suited to patients who:

Have lost significant upper-pole volume alongside excess lower breast tissue and skin
Want a fuller, more youthful contour rather than just a smaller, natural-taper result
Are having the reduction primarily for shape and volume distribution rather than symptomatic pain relief

It’s worth noting that combining breast reduction and implants is a cosmetic option rather than a Medicare-eligible one, and it’s typically discussed only after your surgeon has assessed your tissue quality, skin elasticity, and desired outcome in consultation.

For patients who want lift and reshaping without added implant volume, a breast reduction and lift is usually the more conservative option. Many patients are also surprised by the natural lift effect of a breast reduction alone. We’ll walk you through whether breast reduction and implants, a lift, or reduction on its own best suits your anatomy and goals.

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What to Expect From Your Procedure

Choosing to undergo breast reduction surgery in Australia is a significant decision, and knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and confident.

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia.
Most patients require an overnight stay for monitoring and post-surgical care.
Surgery typically takes 3 to 4 hours, depending on complexity and technique.
Most patients resume light work within 10 days, light exercise at around 4 weeks, and higher-intensity activity at 6–8 weeks.
Initial improvements are visible sooner, but the final breast shape and size settle over 3–6 months.

Those who have undergone a breast reduction in Australia often describe it as life-changing, expressing relief, greater confidence, and a wish they’d had it done sooner. You can see real outcomes in our breast reduction before and after gallery.

At BB Clinic, we provide comprehensive post-operative care to help you recover smoothly and achieve the best possible outcome.

Medicare Rebates and the Cost of Breast Reduction Surgery in Sydney

Breast reduction can be eligible for a Medicare rebate when it’s performed to relieve documented physical symptoms rather than purely for cosmetic reasons.

Medicare Item Number

Bilateral breast reduction with nipple repositioning is billed under MBS item 45523, which applies to patients with macromastia experiencing neck or shoulder pain, and cannot be combined with the insertion of a breast prosthesis (implant). The current schedule fee is $1,575.75, with a Medicare benefit of 75% ($1,181.85).

What Medicare Eligibility Changes

Qualifying for item 45523 can also activate private health fund cover toward hospital and anaesthetic costs, which is usually the larger driver of your final out-of-pocket figure.

Typical Out-of-Pocket Cost

For insured patients in Sydney, breast reduction surgery generally runs from around $15,000 to $25,000 all-inclusive. Uninsured, self-funded patients generally pay around $20,000 to $30,000. When implants are added to a reduction, or the procedure doesn’t meet Medicare’s clinical criteria, it falls under the cosmetic (uninsured) pathway regardless of insurance status.

Because pricing depends on your anatomy, surgical complexity, hospital and surgeon, we’d always recommend a consultation for a personalised quote. Our breast reduction cost guide breaks down what’s included and what typically isn’t.

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Hear Dr Yunaev talk about

“Is It Possible To Reduce Scar Visibility Or Have No Scars At All With Breast Reduction Mammaplasty?”

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The BB Clinic Difference

When searching for breast reduction surgeons in Sydney, many women quickly realise that not all clinics approach breast surgery the same way, and worry about being rushed into a procedure without really understanding what it entails.

BB Clinic is different. Rather than a high-volume, one-size-fits-all approach, we focus on expert, empathetic care and your long-term wellbeing. Led by a specialist breast surgeon rather than a general cosmetic practitioner, we perform a limited number of surgeries with a focus on quality over quantity, offering personalised results, minimal scarring, faster recovery times and flexible payment options.

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Meet Your Surgeon: Dr Michael Yunaev

Dr Yunaev is a specialist breast and general surgeon, not a general cosmetic or plastic surgeon. He has over 12 years of dedicated expertise in breast health and is accredited by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS).

With his background in breast health, function and medical complications, Dr Yunaev addresses aesthetics, function and post-operative quality of life together. His approach balances surgical precision with aesthetic outcomes, with the intent to help patients feel lighter, more comfortable, and more confident in the long term.

Outside of breast specialisation, Dr Yunaev also offers a range of cosmetic procedures, including:

Brachioplasty
Tummy tuck
Labiaplasty
Thigh lift
Breast implant removal
Breast Augmentation and Implant Revision
Liposuction
Male Breast Reduction/Gynaecomastia

Call us on (02) 9819 7449 and start a conversation about your body.

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Before & After Gallery

Patient I – Breast Reduction Mammaplasty

This young woman in her teens, developed juvenile gigantomastia, which affected every aspect of her life. She had a large breast reduction mammaplasty via superomedial pedicle.

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Patient H – Breast Reduction Mammaplasty

50 yo woman noted increasing breast size whch was getting in the way of exercise and other activities. She had a superomedial breast reduction mammaplasty.

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Patient A – Breast Reduction Mammaplasty

This young woman in her teens, with juvenile gigantomastia with 16G size breasts, severe droopiness and mild asymmetry and siginifcant symptoms. She has a superomedial reduction/lift surgery. Early result at 7 weeks post op.

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Are You a Good Candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery?

Not everyone is a candidate for breast reduction surgery in Sydney at every stage of life. Timing matters as much as the decision itself.

A breast reduction may be a good option if you:

Are in good overall health, with realistic expectations
Are a non-smoker/non-vaper
Feel your breasts are too large for your body
Experience neck, back or shoulder pain due to heavy breasts
Find that your breasts limit physical activity or exercise
Have breasts that hang low, with stretched skin or enlarged areolas
Notice your nipples sit below the breast crease when unsupported

It’s generally best to wait until breast development, childbirth and breastfeeding are complete, as these can affect long-term results. Many women retain the ability to breastfeed after surgery, though it’s possible this may be affected.

Your natural breast shape and size will influence which technique is recommended and your final outcome. Your surgeon will guide you through this, ensuring your results align with your health, comfort and aesthetic goals.

Take the First Step — Book a Consultation Today

If you’ve been considering a mammaplasty in Sydney, speaking to a specialist is the first step toward relief. Book a consultation today and let’s discuss how we can help you feel lighter, healthier and more confident in your own skin.

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About Dr Michael Yunaev

Dr Michael Yunaev is a Specialist Breast and General Surgeon with over 22 years of surgical experience and the founder of BB Clinic. A Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS), he holds specialised training across general surgery, breast cancer and reconstructive surgery, and aesthetic breast and body procedures. Dr Yunaev is known for combining advanced surgical technique with a patient-first approach, taking the time to listen, explain, and tailor every recommendation to the individual. He believes every patient deserves to be fully informed, never rushed, and confident in whatever path they choose.

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Breast Reduction FAQs

What is breast reduction surgery (mammaplasty)?

Breast reduction surgery, or mammaplasty surgery, removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin to create smaller, lighter, better-proportioned breasts. It also repositions the nipple and areola, reshapes the breast, and can relieve physical discomfort caused by overly large breasts.

How long is recovery, and when can I return to work and exercise?

Will I have visible scars after breast reduction?

Am I a good candidate, and can I combine reduction with a lift or implants?

Is breast reduction surgery painful?

Does breast reduction affect breastfeeding?

How long do results last?

What are the risks of breast reduction surgery?

The Various Techniques that Can Be Used for A Breast Reduction Mammaplasty

In the past, most breast reductions mammoplasties were made using an inferior pedicle, which means that the blood supply to the nipple was kept from the bottom of the breast, therefore not allowing the surgeon to excise this redundant heavy part of the breast. These patients developed a very boxy appearance of the breasts and often experienced a recurrence with drooping and sagging returning.

The change to superior, superomedial or superolateral pedicles means that the blood supply is coming from the top of the medial or lateral aspects of the breast. This allows us to excise the heavy, redundant inferior part of the breast and tighten the skin envelope to prevent the recurrence of sagging or drooping.

There are three different methods that can be used to perform breast minimising surgery.

It’s important to note that the chosen method is dependent on varying factors some of which include the following:

1. The patient’s breasts size
2. Shape of the breast
3. The amount of skin or tissue that will need to be removed
4. The position of the patient’s nipples
5. And the quality of the skin

Taking all of the above into consideration, one of the following methods will be selected:

1. - Wise Pattern: The most common technique for moderate to substantial mammoplasties creates an anchor-shaped scar with an incision extending around the areola. The scar will then run vertically down to the fold of the breast and then across the natural curve. Excess skin, fat, and tissue are removed with the nipple then being moved to a higher position with sticking that reshapes the breast.
  - Vertical Scar: This technique has a vertical scar which is common in mild to moderate reductions mammoplasties.
  - Round Block or Bennelli: With two circular incisions of different sizes around the areola, skin and breast tissue is removed leaving one scar around the areola. It has been known to create a flat breast and is more suitable for small reductions mammoplasties.

No matter which option of the three above is chosen, nipples and areolas are never detached from their blood and nerve supply at any point.

It’s important to note that in cases where a significant reduction is taking place, the nipples can be removed entirely and repositioned. If this is the case, there will be no sensation in the nipple or ability to breastfeed post-surgery.

Having said that, to see how the procedure for making breasts smaller could help you, it’s best to schedule a free consultation with Dr Yunaev to get all your questions answered.

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