Large, heavy breasts can affect more than just physical appearance—they often lead to ongoing discomfort, restricted movement, and self-consciousness. Women may experience daily challenges with clothing, exercise, posture, and even sleep, all of which can impact quality of life. In some cases, these difficulties begin during adolescence and continue into adulthood, affecting both physical and emotional well-being.
Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a highly individualised procedure designed to reshape the breasts, relieve physical symptoms, and achieve a more balanced body contour. For patients in Melbourne, Dr Gary Kode, a trusted Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, provides expert, personalised care backed by years of clinical experience.
Dr Gary Kode performs every procedure himself—without surgical assistants—ensuring continuity, precision, and attention to detail from consultation through to recovery.
Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Reduction?
You may be a suitable candidate for breast reduction surgery if you experience physical discomfort or limitations due to the size and weight of your breasts. This can include:
- Chronic musculoskeletal pain: Ongoing pain in the upper back, shoulders or neck caused by the weight of the breasts pulling forward on the spine and soft tissues. This can lead to poor posture and contribute to long-term strain on joints and muscles.
- Skin irritation or infection: Moisture and friction under the breast fold can lead to persistent rashes, yeast infections, or skin breakdown, particularly in warmer weather or after exercise.
- Grooves or indentations from bra straps: Heavy breasts can cause bra straps to dig into the shoulders, leaving red marks, pain, and even nerve compression in more severe cases.
- Difficulty with physical activity: Many women find certain exercises—especially high-impact or cardiovascular activities—difficult or uncomfortable. This can limit overall fitness, mobility, and quality of life.
- Challenges with clothing and body confidence: Finding supportive bras or professional clothing can be frustrating. Some patients also report unwanted attention or feel their breast size is out of proportion with the rest of their body.
Men with gynecomastia, or enlarged male breast tissue, may also be candidates for reduction surgery, particularly if the condition causes embarrassment or interferes with physical activities.
A good candidate is generally in good health, does not smoke (or is willing to cease smoking prior to and after surgery), and has realistic expectations of what surgery can achieve. During your consultation, Dr Gary Kode will carefully assess your health history, goals, and physical condition to determine whether breast reduction is appropriate for you.
Types of Breast Reduction Techniques
The technique used for your breast reduction depends on a number of factors, including the amount of volume to be removed, your skin quality, degree of breast sagging (ptosis), and desired outcome. Each technique involves different incision patterns and scar placements.
Dr Gary Kode customises each operation and commonly uses one of the following techniques:
1. Wise-Pattern (Anchor) Technique
This is the most commonly used method, particularly for larger reductions or when there is significant sagging. It involves three incisions: one around the areola, a vertical line down to the breast fold, and a horizontal line along the crease of the breast. This pattern allows the greatest control in reshaping the breast and repositioning the nipple. The resulting shape is usually long-lasting and well-proportioned.
2. Vertical (Lollipop) Technique
This method includes a circular incision around the areola and a vertical incision down to the breast fold, without the horizontal scar. It’s suitable for moderate reductions where less skin needs to be removed. It leaves a shorter scar, but requires more time for the breast to settle into its final shape.
3. Peri-areolar (Donut) Technique
Used less frequently, this technique involves a single circular incision around the areola. It is most appropriate for small reductions or mild reshaping and may be used to correct asymmetry or mild ptosis. While scarring is minimal, the degree of lift and reshaping possible is also limited.
Regardless of the technique used, Dr Gary Kode focuses on preserving nipple sensitivity and blood supply while achieving a natural, symmetrical shape that suits your body proportions.
Surgery for Breast Reduction
Breast reduction is performed under general anaesthetic in a fully accredited hospital. In Melbourne, Dr Gary Kode operates at Glenferrie Private Hospital and Masada Private Hospital, both of which provide experienced staff and post-operative care facilities.
The procedure typically involves:
- Pre-surgical markings: Dr Kode marks the breasts while the patient is upright to accurately map incisions and ensure even contouring.
- Anaesthetic: Administered by a qualified anaesthetist known to Dr Kode. Pain management includes the use of local anaesthetic to reduce post-operative discomfort.
- Removal and reshaping: Excess skin, breast tissue, and fat are carefully removed. The remaining tissue is reshaped to form a natural, elevated contour.
- Nipple repositioning: In most cases, the nipple remains attached to its blood supply but is repositioned higher on the breast mound. In very large reductions, a free nipple graft may be required.
- Use of drains: Thin tubes are inserted temporarily to prevent fluid build-up and assist healing.
- Garment fitting: A post-operative compression bra is applied to support the new breast shape and reduce swelling.
Patients typically remain in hospital overnight and are reviewed by Dr Gary Kode both during and after their stay.
Photos and Gallery of Breast Reduction Results
A dedicated gallery of before-and-after photos is available during consultation to help patients visualise outcomes. These clinical photographs, shared only with full written consent, highlight the variety of surgical goals, body types, and results achieved.
Viewing real cases helps set realistic expectations and provides insight into what can be achieved under Dr Gary Kode’s care. The gallery includes examples of:
- Large volume reductions with significant reshaping
- Moderate reductions with improved symmetry and lift
- Correction of asymmetry or nipple malposition
- Long-term results with faded scarring and natural contour
Recovery After Breast Reduction
These images can be discussed during your consultation in Melbourne with Dr Kode, and you will have the opportunity to ask questions about similar case outcomes.
Recovery is unique to every patient but follows a generally predictable timeline. Dr Gary Kode provides a detailed post-operative guide and remains available for support throughout the healing process.
Immediate Recovery (Weeks 1–2)
- Expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort. This is well-managed with oral pain relief and supportive dressings.
- Drains are usually removed after 1–2 days.
- Patients are encouraged to move gently, avoid lifting, and rest with elevated upper body support.
- Compression garments should be worn day and night to reduce swelling and support healing tissues.
Intermediate Recovery (Weeks 3–6)
- Patients may return to desk-based or light duties at work.
- Gentle walking is encouraged; however, strenuous activity and upper body exercise must be avoided.
- Swelling begins to settle, and dressings may be removed or replaced with light scar tape (e.g. Hypafix).
- Follow-up appointments monitor wound healing and overall progress.
Long-Term Recovery (Weeks 6 and Beyond)
- Most patients return to full activities, including exercise and travel, by the 6–8 week mark.
- Final breast shape continues to refine over 3–6 months.
- Scars gradually fade and flatten over time, particularly with good skin care and sun protection.
- Ongoing use of soft, supportive bras is recommended for comfort.
Dr Gary Kode remains involved in every stage of recovery and encourages patients to reach out with any concerns or questions.
Results of Breast Reduction – What to Expect
The benefits of breast reduction are both physical and emotional. Patients frequently report a dramatic improvement in their comfort and daily life, including:
- Physical relief: Reduction in back, neck, and shoulder pain caused by the weight of the breasts. Improved posture and breathing can also result.
- Increased mobility: Greater freedom of movement and participation in activities like running, cycling, or yoga. Many patients are able to wear sports bras and activewear comfortably for the first time.
- Enhanced wardrobe options: Better clothing fit, improved self-image, and the ability to wear lighter, more fitted clothing without discomfort or self-consciousness.
- Emotional well-being: Boost in confidence and reduced anxiety related to breast size or unwanted attention.
Over time, patients find that their new breast shape enhances their body proportions and offers long-term satisfaction, especially when weight is stable.
Scars After Breast Reduction Surgery
Scars are an unavoidable part of breast reduction surgery but are carefully placed and managed to fade over time. Most incisions are:
- Around the areola (circular scar, often well-camouflaged by colour and texture changes)
- Vertically from the nipple to the breast fold
- Along the inframammary fold (in Wise-pattern technique)
Scars typically appear red or pink in the first few months but fade to a lighter tone over 6–12 months. Scar management includes:
- Use of Hypafix or silicone tape
- Gentle massage after healing
- Avoidance of sun exposure on scars
- Scar monitoring during follow-up appointments
Patients with a history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring should inform Dr Gary Kode during consultation so that appropriate preventative measures can be discussed.
Cost of Breast Reduction Surgery
Surgical fees for breast reduction can vary depending on several factors, including:
- The complexity and duration of the procedure
- The hospital chosen for the surgery
- The type of anaesthetic and who administers it
- Whether drains, garments, and follow-up visits are included
Some patients may be eligible for Medicare or private health rebates if their breast reduction is performed to relieve physical symptoms. In this case, an item number may apply.
As per AHPRA guidelines, exact fees cannot be published online. Instead, a comprehensive quote will be provided during your consultation with Dr Gary Kode in Melbourne, based on your needs and any eligibility for rebates.
Risks of Breast Reduction Surgery
While breast reduction is generally safe and associated with high satisfaction rates, it is still a surgical procedure and carries risks such as:
- Infection or wound healing issues: Particularly in larger reductions or patients with certain medical conditions.
- Changes in nipple sensation: Some patients experience temporary numbness or, in rare cases, permanent loss of sensation.
- Asymmetry: Minor differences in size, shape, or nipple position may occur and may require revision.
- Bleeding or haematoma: Rare but can require intervention.
- Scarring: Some patients may develop thick, raised or pigmented scars, particularly if prone to keloid formation.
- Inability to breastfeed: While most techniques preserve breast function, breastfeeding ability may be reduced.
Dr Gary Kode takes every precaution to reduce risks, including pre-operative assessment, careful surgical technique, and comprehensive post-operative monitoring. Any concerns are addressed promptly to ensure the safest recovery possible.
FAQs About Breast Reduction Surgery
About Dr Gary Kode
Dr Gary Kode is a qualified Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon with over 30 years of surgical experience in Australia and internationally. Based in Melbourne, Dr Kode is known for his precise, hands-on approach and commitment to natural-looking results.
Key attributes of his practice include:
- Performing all procedures himself—without surgical assistants
- Specialising in breast, body, and facial rejuvenation procedures
- Operating only in fully accredited private hospitals
- Providing comprehensive, personalised consultations
- Supporting patients through every stage—from planning to recovery
Patients choose Dr Gary Kode for his dedication to surgical integrity, refined technique, and respectful, clear communication.
Book Your Consultation with Dr Gary Kode in Melbourne
If you are considering breast reduction surgery and would like expert advice from a trusted plastic surgeon, schedule a confidential consultation with Dr Gary Kode in Melbourne.
To book, please contact our practice directly. We look forward to supporting you on your journey toward improved comfort, confidence, and quality of life.