HealthInfo Canterbury
Before breast reduction surgery
Before your surgery, you'll have an appointment to see your surgeon in the plastic surgery clinic. Your surgeon will discuss surgical techniques, the outcome you want, the risks of surgery and your recovery. Please ask any questions you have and talk about anything that worries you.
After that, you may be seen at a pre-admission clinic. Bring along any prescribed and over-the-counter medications you're taking. Before surgery, you'll talk with your anaesthetist, who'll review your health and medication details. You can read more about Having an anaesthetic.
People with nicotine in their bodies have more complications from breast reduction surgery. Unless you've been nicotine free for at least three months before surgery, it's unlikely you'll be offered surgery.
Nicotine free means not smoking, not using nicotine replacement therapy and not vaping products that contain nicotine.
Being nicotine free helps you to heal better after the operation. It also reduces the risks that go with having an anaesthetic. If you need help to quit smoking, use the resources on How to become smokefree.
When you come to hospital for your operation:
- remove any nail polish and bulky or sharp jewellery. You can use adhesive tape to cover any rings and earrings you would prefer not to remove
- bring along any prescribed and over-the-counter medications you're taking
- bring along a soft supportive bra without underwires. A sports-type bra with front or side fastening is best. This will be put on you at the end of your operation while you're still asleep.
Breast nurses
Breast nurses coordinate the care of women with newly diagnosed breast conditions. They also provide education, psychological support and wound care management. They can be a first point of contact for you and your family during treatment.
If you're being treated at Christchurch Hospital, you can contact the breast nurse on (03) 364‑1804, 8 am to 4 pm Monday to Thursday and 8 am to 12 noon Friday.
On the next page: During breast reduction surgery
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Endorsed by Canterbury DHB Plastic Surgery Department. Last reviewed November 2020. Last updated February 2021.
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Review key: HIBRR-85826
