Dr Evan Woo
Senior Consultant Breast and Plastic Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore), MMed (Surgery), MRCS (Edinburgh), FAMS (Plastic Surgery)
MBBS (Singapore), MMed (Surgery), MRCS (Edinburgh), FAMS (Plastic Surgery)
Your Guide to Breast Reduction Surgery
Overly large breasts can affect more than your appearance. Many women experience persistent neck, shoulder and back pain, skin irritation beneath the breasts, difficulty exercising and finding well-fitting clothing, making everyday activities increasingly uncomfortable.
Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, reduces the size and weight of the breasts to improve body proportion while helping to relieve the physical discomfort associated with excess breast tissue. The procedure is tailored to your anatomy and aesthetic goals to achieve a balanced, natural-looking result.
Procedure Overview
What is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery is a procedure that removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin to create smaller, lighter and more proportionate breasts. It may be performed to relieve symptoms associated with overly large breasts, improve breast proportions or both. During the procedure, the remaining breast tissue is reshaped, and the nipples and areolas may be repositioned to create a balanced breast contour.
The surgical technique is tailored to the amount of tissue to be removed, your breast anatomy and your desired outcome. In some cases, liposuction may also be used to refine the breast shape or reduce excess tissue around the sides of the chest.
The surgical technique is tailored to the amount of tissue to be removed, your breast anatomy and your desired outcome. In some cases, liposuction may also be used to refine the breast shape or reduce excess tissue around the sides of the chest.
Potential Benefits & Outcomes
What Are the Benefits of Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery reduces the size and weight of overly large breasts while improving their shape and proportion. While individual results vary, the procedure may offer several benefits, including:
Understanding Your Suitability
Is a Breast Reduction Surgery Suitable for Me?
The suitability of breast reduction surgery depends on factors such as your breast size, body proportions, physical symptoms and treatment goals. During your consultation, Dr Evan Woo will assess your anatomy and discuss whether the procedure is appropriate for your individual needs.
You may be a suitable candidate if you:
A consultation with Dr Evan Woo can help determine whether breast reduction surgery is the most appropriate option based on your anatomy, symptoms and aesthetic goals.
Treatment Options
What Are the Different Breast Reduction Techniques?
Breast reduction techniques differ primarily in the incision pattern used and the amount of breast tissue, fat and skin that needs to be removed. The most appropriate technique depends on your breast size, degree of breast enlargement, skin quality and desired outcome.
Wise Pattern (Anchor) Technique
Uses incisions around the areola, vertically down the breast and along the breast crease. This technique is commonly recommended for women with significantly enlarged breasts or when a greater amount of tissue removal and reshaping is required.
Vertical (Lollipop) Technique
Uses incisions around the areola and vertically down the breast. It is typically suitable for women with mild to moderate breast enlargement who require less extensive tissue removal while achieving breast reduction and reshaping.
Liposuction-Assisted Technique
Removes excess fatty tissue through small incisions using liposuction, without extensive skin removal. This technique may be suitable for selected patients whose breast enlargement is primarily due to excess fat and who have good skin elasticity.
Find the Breast Reduction Technique That's Right for You
Every woman's anatomy and goals are unique. Dr Evan Woo will recommend the breast reduction technique best suited to achieve a balanced, natural-looking result.
Pre-Surgery Preparation
Preparing for
Breast Reduction Surgery
Careful planning helps ensure your breast reduction surgery is tailored to your anatomy, physical symptoms and treatment goals. Before surgery, you can generally expect the following:
Consultation and Assessment
Dr Evan Woo will assess your breast size, anatomy, physical symptoms and treatment goals before recommending the most appropriate surgical approach.
Treatment Planning
You will discuss the expected outcomes, breast reduction technique and recovery process to develop a personalised surgical plan.
Preparing for Surgery
You will receive personalised instructions on medications, smoking cessation, fasting requirements and arranging support after your procedure.
Your consultation is an opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns so that you feel informed and prepared before surgery.
What to Expect
What Happens During Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and is tailored to your breast size, anatomy and treatment goals. While every procedure is individualised, it generally involves the following steps:
| Step | What to Expect |
| Anaesthesia | General anaesthesia is administered so you remain asleep and comfortable throughout the procedure. |
| Incision Placement | Dr Evan Woo makes carefully planned incisions based on the breast reduction technique selected during your consultation. The incision pattern depends on the amount of tissue to be removed, your breast anatomy and the degree of reshaping required. |
| Breast Reduction & Reshaping | Excess breast tissue, fat and skin are removed, and the remaining breast tissue is reshaped to create smaller, lighter and more proportionate breasts. The nipples and areolas are repositioned to a more natural position, and enlarged areolas may also be reduced where appropriate. |
| Closing the Incisions | Once the breasts have been reshaped, the incisions are closed with sutures and dressings are applied. A supportive surgical bra is fitted to help minimise swelling and support healing. |
| After the Procedure | Breast reduction surgery typically takes between two and four hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the amount of tissue being removed. Most patients can return home on the same day, although an overnight stay may occasionally be recommended. |
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia is administered so you remain asleep and comfortable throughout the procedure.
Incision Placement
Dr Evan Woo makes carefully planned incisions based on the breast reduction technique selected during your consultation. The incision pattern depends on the amount of tissue to be removed, your breast anatomy and the degree of reshaping required.
Breast Reduction & Reshaping
Excess breast tissue, fat and skin are removed, and the remaining breast tissue is reshaped to create smaller, lighter and more proportionate breasts. The nipples and areolas are repositioned to a more natural position, and enlarged areolas may also be reduced where appropriate.
Closing the Incisions
Once the breasts have been reshaped, the incisions are closed with sutures and dressings are applied. A supportive surgical bra is fitted to help minimise swelling and support healing.
After the Procedure
Breast reduction surgery typically takes between two and four hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the amount of tissue being removed. Most patients can return home on the same day, although an overnight stay may occasionally be recommended.
Take the First Step Towards Greater Breast Comfort
If overly large breasts are affecting your comfort, confidence or daily activities, a consultation with Dr Evan Woo can help determine whether breast reduction surgery is the right option for you.
Post-Surgery Recovery
Recovery After Breast Reduction Surgery
Recovery after breast reduction surgery is gradual, with most patients returning to light daily activities within one to two weeks.
| What to Expect | Details |
| Initial Recovery | Temporary swelling, bruising, tightness and mild discomfort are expected after surgery. Most patients can resume light daily activities within one to two weeks, while strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided until advised by your surgeon. |
| Aftercare Recommendations | Wear a supportive surgical bra, care for your incisions as instructed, and attend your scheduled follow-up appointments to support healing and monitor your recovery. |
| Final Results | Many patients notice an immediate reduction in breast weight after surgery. As swelling subsides and healing progresses, the final breast shape and size become more apparent over the following weeks to months. |
Initial Recovery
Temporary swelling, bruising, tightness and mild discomfort are expected after surgery. Most patients can resume light daily activities within one to two weeks, while strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided until advised by your surgeon.
Aftercare Recommendations
Wear a supportive surgical bra, care for your incisions as instructed, and attend your scheduled follow-up appointments to support healing and monitor your recovery.
Final Results
Many patients notice an immediate reduction in breast weight after surgery. As swelling subsides and healing progresses, the final breast shape and size become more apparent over the following weeks to months.
Understanding the Risks
Risks and Potential Complications of Breast Reduction
As with any surgical procedure, breast reduction carries potential risks, including bleeding, infection, adverse reactions to anaesthesia and delayed wound healing. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you during your consultation and explain the measures taken to minimise them.
Potential complications that are more specific to breast reduction surgery include:
Dr Evan Woo carefully tailors each breast reduction procedure to your anatomy, physical symptoms and treatment goals while prioritising your safety throughout your surgical journey.
Trusted Breast Screening Expertise
Why Patients Choose
Dr Evan Woo for Breast Reduction
Dedicated Breast Surgery Practice
Dr Evan Woo's practice is dedicated to breast surgery, encompassing cosmetic breast surgery, breast reconstruction and breast cancer surgery, providing focused care across the full spectrum of breast procedures.
Balancing Comfort and Breast Proportion
Breast reduction is carefully planned to relieve the physical discomfort associated with overly large breasts while creating a breast size, shape and position that remain proportionate to your body.
Preserving Breast Shape and Function
Beyond reducing breast size, every procedure aims to preserve breast shape, symmetry and nipple position while maintaining breast function wherever appropriate.
Comprehensive Care Throughout Your Journey
From consultation and surgical planning to recovery and follow-up care, Dr Evan Woo provides continuity of care and personalised support throughout every stage of your breast reduction journey.
Your Journey Starts Here
Achieve Better Comfort and Body Proportion with Dr Evan Woo
Living with overly large breasts can affect your comfort, mobility and confidence in ways that extend beyond appearance. If breast size is causing persistent pain or limiting your daily activities, breast reduction surgery may help improve both your physical comfort and overall quality of life.
At Evan Woo Plastic Surgery, every breast reduction is tailored to your anatomy, physical symptoms and treatment goals. Dr Evan Woo combines dedicated breast surgery expertise with personalised surgical planning to recommend the most appropriate breast reduction technique and guide you through every stage of your treatment. Schedule a consultation to discuss whether breast reduction surgery is the right option for you.
Helpful Information
FAQs About Breast Reduction Surgery
Will breast reduction leave visible scars?
Breast reduction surgery involves incisions, so some degree of scarring is unavoidable. The location and extent of the scars depend on the surgical technique used. While scars are permanent, they typically fade over time and Dr Evan Woo will provide guidance on scar care during your recovery.
Can I breastfeed after breast reduction surgery?
Many women are able to breastfeed after breast reduction surgery, but the ability to do so may be affected depending on the amount of tissue removed and the surgical technique used. If you plan to have children or breastfeed in the future, discuss this with Dr Evan Woo during your consultation.
Will my breasts sag again after breast reduction surgery?
Breast reduction reshapes and lifts the breasts, but it cannot stop the natural ageing process. Factors such as ageing, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations and gravity may gradually affect breast shape over time.
Is breast reduction surgery covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage varies depending on your insurer, policy and whether the procedure is considered medically necessary. Dr Evan Woo and his team can advise you on the documentation required and discuss the payment options available.
How long do the results of breast reduction surgery last?
Breast reduction provides long-lasting results, particularly if you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. However, natural ageing, pregnancy and significant weight changes may alter the size and shape of the breasts over time.
Experience You Can Rely On
Our Breast Reduction Surgeon
Experience You Can Rely On
Our Breast Reduction Surgeon
Dr Evan Woo
Senior Consultant Breast and Plastic Surgeon
- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, National University of Singapore
- Master of Medicine (Surgery), National University of Singapore
- Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
- Fellow, Academy of Medicine, Singapore (Plastic Surgery)
Dr Evan Woo is a specialist plastic, reconstructive and breast surgeon with a focused practice in aesthetic breast surgery, breast reconstruction and breast cancer surgery. Having completed specialist training in Singapore and a Microsurgery Fellowship at the Nottingham Breast Institute in the United Kingdom, he combines advanced plastic surgical techniques with extensive expertise in breast surgery to perform personalised breast reduction procedures that improve breast proportion, comfort and overall quality of life.
His expertise in cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery allows every breast reduction to be tailored to the individual’s anatomy, physical symptoms and aesthetic goals. Whether the aim is to relieve discomfort associated with overly large breasts, improve body proportion or both, Dr Woo carefully evaluates each patient’s needs to recommend the surgical approach best suited to achieving balanced, natural-looking results.
