1. Do I need to loose weight before I have the operation?
2.  Does my nipple have to be taken off to decrease my breasts?  
3. How extensive are the scars?
4. Can the operation be done with less scars?
5. How small can I be?
6. How long do the scars take to fade?
7. Is the operation covered by Medicare?

Q: Do I need to loose weight before I have the operation?
A: It is preferable for patients to be within 10% of their ideal weight. If a patient is overweight she should loose the weight before surgery as the risks from being obese increases significantly.

Q: Does my nipple have to be taken off to decrease my breasts?
A: Usually not.

Q: How extensive are the scars?
A: Because the nipple has to be lifted and the skin tightened there is usually significant scarring. The most common technique used gives the best shape and the scars are around the nipple, from the areolar down to the crease and along the crease under the breast.

Q: Can the operation be done with less scars?
A: The traditional techniques involved long scars especially underneath the breast. With the new technique which is suitable for most but not all patients, the scar under the breast is very short or non existent. Dr Chan will be able to advise you whether this short scar operation is possible for you.

Q: How small can I be?
A: It is common for patients to want to be as small as possible after having so much trouble with their breasts, right? However you have to take the rest of your build into consideration to achieve a nice balance. Dr Chan will discuss your preferences and suitability when you see him. Remember beauty is balance and harmony and this applies to breast reduction too.

Q: How long do the scars take to fade?
A: Patients vary in the way they make their scars. Some scar better than others. Usually the scars will look pink for a few months and gradually fade over 12 to 18 months.

Q: Is the operation covered by Medicare?
A: There is an item number that can be used for this operation. There is a rebate, which will pay part of the fee. If you are in a health fund the item number will help you with your hospital cost depending on your level of cover.