Julian Liew, MD

Thank you for your question and photos. It’s not uncommon to see some return of upper pole looseness or skin laxity after a breast lift, especially if the skin had limited elasticity to begin with.
One effective option that avoids a full second lift is autologous fat grafting—using your own fat (typically harvested from areas like the abdomen or thighs) to restore volume in the upper pole. This can help inflate the loose skin, soften the appearance of stretch marks, and restore a more youthful contour—without the need for implants or extensive incisions. It’s a natural, well-tolerated method that works particularly well when the issue is volume loss rather than significant sagging.
If there is some minor skin excess—particularly in the vertical scar line—a limited skin excision through a vertical incision may help fine-tune the shape. In some cases, a periareolar incision (around the nipple) might be needed if there’s looseness involving the areola or nipple position.
Ultimately, the best approach depends on whether the issue is primarily volume loss, skin laxity, or both. A detailed assessment will help tailor the right solution—whether it’s fat grafting alone, minor skin tightening, or a combination of techniques.
I’d recommend a follow-up with your surgeon, or feel free to come in for a second opinion.

Most patients can safely lose around 5–10% of their body weight after breast reduction surgery without significantly changing their results. For example, if you weigh 70kg, losing up to 7kg typically won’t affect breast shape or volume in a noticeable way.

It’s important to understand that breasts are made of both glandular tissue and fat. If a large portion of your breast volume is fatty, weight loss may reduce size further or lead to sagging and asymmetry. That’s why larger weight changes (over 10–15%) are best done before surgery—so your surgeon can work with a stable foundation and deliver results that last.

At The Clinic, I tailor every breast reduction to match your current body and long-term goals. If you're planning to lose weight, we’ll factor that into your surgical plan. This ensures that your results remain natural, balanced, and in harmony with your overall shape. Good luck with your weight loss journey!

At 18, it's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed by the impact of large breasts, especially as a dancer where movement and comfort are so important. Breast reduction surgery can be a life-changing procedure — helping to relieve physical discomfort, improve posture, and make it easier to stay active and confident.

From your described bra size (AU 8FF / UK 30FF), I believe the benefits of breast reduction would likely outweigh the risks. While you're still young and on the pill, it's natural to wonder whether your breasts might grow back after surgery. In most cases, breast tissue does not significantly regrow, especially once breast development has stabilised. Some birth control pills — particularly those with higher estrogen — can cause mild breast enlargement, but this is usually temporary and unlikely to reverse the results of a well-performed reduction.

The best way to know if now is the right time is through a thorough consultation. At The Clinic, we’ll discuss your health, lifestyle, and future goals in detail. You’ll receive clear, individualised advice to help you make a confident and informed decision.

Based on your history of weight loss and two pregnancies, you sound like a good candidate for a tummy tuck, especially if you're in good health, at or near your goal weight, and don’t plan on having more children. A tummy tuck can address loose skin, muscle separation (diastasis recti), and residual abdominal fullness, resulting in a flatter, more contoured abdomen and a more refined belly button. If your skin quality is good and you maintain a stable weight, results are typically long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing.

From your photograph, it’s difficult to assess the degree of upper abdominal muscle separation, but it doesn’t appear to be significant. An ultrasound can confirm this. If there is minimal upper rectus divarication, a mini abdominoplasty with repair of the lower abdominal muscles may be sufficient. While an umbilical float technique is sometimes used, I personally feel that floating the umbilicus more than 2 cm tends to look unnatural. If there is moderate or significant upper laxity, a full abdominoplasty with formal belly button repositioning would provide a more harmonious result. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon will help guide the best option for your goals.