Breast reduction surgery

Everything you always wanted to ask your plastic surgeon before having breast reduction surgery.
The best cosmetic surgery results are those that you don’t see

Plastic Surgery Queensland
Suite 2.01
Mater Private Clinic
550 Stanley Street
South Brisbane QLD 4101

Plastic Surgery Queensland
Gold Coast
109 W. Burleigh Road
Burleigh Waters QLD 4220

Whether you’re dealing with chronic discomfort, changes after pregnancy or fullness that just doesn’t feel right: breast reduction surgery is a medically recognised procedure to help reduce excess breast tissue and improve physical comfort.

As a plastic surgeon in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, I offer breast reduction surgery for both women and men; every approach is personalised and based on safety, suitability and your individual health needs.

Breast reduction after pregnancy

Why do women consider breast reduction?

Many women come to see me after years of managing large, heavy breasts and for some, the issue becomes even more noticeable after pregnancy and breastfeeding. It’s not just about size; it’s about shoulder grooves from bra straps, back pain, skin irritation, and difficulty with movement or finding clothing that fits.

Breast reduction surgery is a medical procedure that removes excess breast tissue and skin. For women, this can also involve repositioning the nipple and reshaping the breast for balance and support.

Shape

We’ll talk openly about your symptoms, your lifestyle and what’s driving your decision; whether it’s discomfort, function, or changes after having children.

Dr Andrew Hadj in Brisbane and Gold Coast, Dr Andrew Hadj, plastic surgeon in Brisbane
Dr Andrew Hadj

Plastic Surgeon Brisbane & Gold Coast, BSc, MBBS, FRACS (Plast)

You may be suitable for breast reduction surgery if:

  • You have persistent neck, back or shoulder pain

     

  • Your breasts feel heavy, uncomfortable, or limit your activity

     

  • You struggle to find supportive clothing or bras

     

  • You experience rashes or skin irritation underneath the breast fold

     

  • Your breasts have changed shape significantly after breastfeeding or weight changes

     

When there are functional symptoms, like chronic skin breakdown or posture-related pain, breast reduction surgery may be eligible for a Medicare item number.

We’ll go through your medical history and current concerns, and I’ll give you clear, personalised advice on whether this is the right next step for you.

Gynaecomastia surgery

Breast reduction for men

Gynaecomastia is a common condition where breast tissue becomes enlarged in men. It can happen at any age, sometimes due to hormones, medications or weight changes. It may cause emotional distress as well as physical discomfort.

Gynaecomastia surgery (also called male breast surgery) is performed to remove excess tissue and restore a flatter chest contour. This is often done using liposuction and direct excision techniques through small, discreet incisions.

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Dr Andrew Hadj

Where do you operate?

I consult from my private rooms at Mater Private Clinic and I operate as a plastic surgeon at many private hospitals in Brisbane, Queensland.

I can see Gold Coast patients from my private rooms: Shop 9/109 West Burleigh Rd, Burleigh Waters. I operate at

The procedure, step by step

What happens during breast reduction surgery?

Every case is different, but here’s what you can generally expect.

Step 1

Anaesthetic

Surgery is done under general anaesthetic. You’ll meet your anaesthetist on the day, and you may go home on the same day or stay overnight.

Step 2

Incisions and tissue removal

For women, this usually includes a vertical or anchor-shaped incision, removal of excess tissue, reshaping the breast and repositioning the nipple.

For men, the approach is smaller, typically through incisions around the areola or under the chest fold, with or without liposuction. I use a very specific technique where the scar is placed discreetly and often becomes barely visible by 8 weeks.

Step 3

Closure and recovery

All incisions are closed with dissolving sutures and covered with dressings. A compression garment or support bra is worn post-operatively to assist healing.

dr andrew hadj plastic surgeon brisbane
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body contouring excessive skin removal brisbane and gold coast | plastic surgery services

Recovery after breast reduction surgery

Recovery times will vary slightly, but this is a general guide:

Week 1

You’ll go home the same day or after 1 night in hospital. Some discomfort and swelling is expected. I’ll check in with you to monitor your healing.

Week 2-3

You’ll attend your first follow-up. Most people feel more mobile and can return to gentle activities. Support garments remain important.

Week 4-6

Many return to work and light duties. Avoid lifting or high-impact exercise until cleared. Your shape will continue to settle over the following months.

Like all surgery, breast reduction comes with some risks, including:

  • Bleeding or infection
  • Wound healing issues
  • Nipple sensitivity changes (temporary or permanent)
  • Scarring
  • Asymmetry
  • Need for revision in rare cases

We’ll go through these in your consultation so you can make an informed decision, and you’ll receive written information to take home as well.

Working, Bathing, exercising and driving?

Breast reduction surgery Brisbane & Gold Coast | Dr Hadj

Let’s talk about next steps

If you’ve been thinking about breast reduction surgery, whether it’s because of discomfort, post-partum changes, or a condition like gynaecomastia, I’m here to help guide you through your options.