Breast, Oncoplastic &
Cosmetic Surgery
Comprehensive surgical care across breast conditions, skin cancer, head & neck lumps, and lifestyle & cosmetic procedures — delivered with expertise and compassion.
Benign Breast Conditions
Benign breast conditions include fibroadenomas, cysts, and fibrocystic changes. These are non-cancerous anomalies which might have been felt by you or your GP, or found incidentally on imaging scans. After diagnosis is confirmed, these can often be observed, however treatment can be undertaken if they are bothersome.
Inflammatory breast conditions, such as mastitis and abscesses, can lead to redness, swelling, and pain. Mastitis is often an infection, requiring antibiotics, while abscesses may need drainage to relieve discomfort.
Chronic Granulomatous Mastitis is a form of mastitis which is recurrent and can be distressing and disfiguring. Management might include drainage of infections, anti-inflammatory injections and systemic medication.
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a complex condition that requires a thorough investigation and personalized management plan. Dr George will guide you through every step, ensuring you receive the best care and support.
The process begins with detailed investigation to confirm the diagnosis and determine the stage of the cancer. This involves a physical examination, mammograms, ultrasounds, or MRI scans to identify abnormalities. If there’s a suspicious lump, a biopsy is performed to determine if it’s cancerous and, if so, what type of breast cancer it is.
Staging is crucial in breast cancer management, as it tells us whether the cancer has spread to lymph nodes or other parts of the body. This might require additional imaging tests like CT or PET scans.
With a confirmed diagnosis and stage, a treatment plan is tailored to your specific situation. Surgery can include lumpectomy or mastectomy, depending on the size and location of the tumour, as well as a consideration of patient preference. In addition to cure, Dr George aims for achieving a cosmetically appropriate result via the use of oncoplastic techniques.
Radiation therapy, chemotherapy and hormone therapy may also be part of the treatment, depending on the type of cancer and its characteristics.
Dr George works with a multidisciplinary team of oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons to ensure you have a comprehensive approach to your treatment. If you’re facing a breast cancer diagnosis, remember that you’re not alone. Our team are here to help you navigate the journey, answer your questions, and provide compassionate care.
Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer
Skin cancer can be grouped into (1) melanoma and (2) non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). The most common subtypes of NMSC include Basal Cell and Squamous Cell skin cancer, which arise from the regular skin cells (keratinocytes). These generally have a good prognosis and treatment largely revolves around adequate surgical removal, however on occasion further investigations and treatment might be warranted.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the second type of skin cancer, arising from pigment cells (melanocytes). Although less common, treatment is often more complex. This can include surgery, lymph node assessment and immunotherapy. Dr George works closely with other doctors and discusses complex cases with his colleagues at the Melanoma Institute of Australia.
Your General Practitioner or Skin Doctor can refer to Dr George for further investigation and treatment, especially when the location or size of a lesion makes treatment challenging. Dr George has expertise in performing reconstructive skin flaps or grafts as well as lymph node surgery. The aim is to achieve appropriate clearance of the cancer with a good cosmetic and functional outcome.
Dr George will guide you through this journey, provide state of the art management and ongoing surveillance.
There are many important structures around our head and neck which can be causes of enlarged lumps. Therefore diligent investigation is required to distinguish between various causes.
Enlarged Lymph Nodes
Often soft and tender, typically swelling due to infections or inflammation.
Thyroid Nodules
Can be benign or cancerous, sometimes causing a visible lump or pressure in the front of the neck.
Cysts
Fluid-filled sacs that can be benign and painless.
Benign Tumours
Non-cancerous growths.
Cancerous Tumours
More serious and require prompt attention.
Dr George will perform a thorough physical evaluation followed by imaging investigations such as ultrasound, CT scan or MRI. If needed, additional investigation can be obtained by doing a biopsy (fine needle aspiration or core biopsy).
Once the cause of the lump is identified, treatment options will be discussed. As your doctor, Dr George is here to provide you with personalized care and support.
Breast Reduction
Breast reduction is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the size of breasts, providing relief from physical discomfort and improving quality of life. Deciding to undergo breast reduction is a significant decision. Dr George will guide you through the process, ensuring you feel informed and supported every step of the way. The procedure may be rebatable from medicare and health insurance.
Overly large breasts can cause a range of physical and emotional issues. They can lead to chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain, as well as skin irritation from bra straps and restricted physical activity. Beyond the physical discomfort, large breasts can also affect self-perception and make it challenging to find clothing that fits comfortably.
The goal of breast reduction surgery is to remove excess breast tissue in order to achieve a breast size that is proportional to your body. This not only relieves physical discomfort but also helps you feel more confident and comfortable in your own skin. The surgery is tailored to your specific needs, with an emphasis on achieving a balanced and aesthetically pleasing result.
The process begins with a thorough consultation, where your reasons for considering breast reduction are discussed and your medical history evaluated. During this consultation, the procedure is explained in detail, including the surgical technique, expected outcomes, and potential risks.
If you decide to proceed with breast reduction, Dr George will guide you through the preparation and what to expect on the day of surgery. The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, and the specific technique used depends on the amount of tissue to be removed and the desired final appearance. After the procedure, you can expect some recovery time, during which detailed aftercare instructions will help ensure a smooth healing process.
Breast reduction is a life-changing procedure for many people, offering relief from physical pain and increased freedom in daily activities. Dr George’s role is to ensure that surgery is safe, effective, and tailored to your unique needs.
Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that raises and reshapes breasts which might have dropped. Breasts can droop due to aging, gravity, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight fluctuations. A breast lift addresses this by removing excess skin, re-shaping the breast tissue, and repositioning the nipple and areola to a higher position.
The result is a more projected and contoured appearance. When properly assessed by a specialist such as Dr George, this procedure can attract medicare and insurance rebates.
The first step is a comprehensive consultation where goals and medical history are discussed and the best surgical approach is considered. Various techniques can be used depending on your breast type and goals. These include the crescent lift, periareolar (donut) lift, vertical (lollipop) lift, and anchor lift.
Sometimes, a breast lift can be performed as part of a reduction, new implant augmentation or exchange, and reduction of old implants.
If you would like to discuss this further, Dr George is here to help and provide an obligation-free consultation.
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation with implants is a surgical procedure designed to increase the size and improve the shape of the breasts. Breast augmentation can be motivated by various reasons, including enhancing body shape, restoring lost volume, or achieving better symmetry.
Implants are a common method for breast augmentation, providing a safe and effective way to reach these goals. Dr George only uses TGA approved implants which have been extensively tested and are safe. The key aspect is understanding your goals and establishing realistic expectations.
Dr George can also discuss natural forms of breast augmentation. These include lipofilling, where some of your own adipose tissue (fat) is used to add volume to your breast. This technique has been sophisticated, and scientific research has shown stem cells exist in adipose tissue.
Another approach is auto-augmentation, a technique which can reshape and redistribute breast volume to give an implant-like lift, but without using implants.
Breast augmentation can be life-changing, boosting self-confidence and enhancing your overall appearance. However it should only be done by qualified experts. As part of the service, Dr George will provide ongoing surveillance of breast health and implant integrity.
Scar Reduction
Scarring is a normal part of the healing process which might come about following surgery, trauma or irritation. Healing and scarring is a dynamic process which lasts up to 2 years.
Sometimes there is excessive scar formation, which in medical terms is called hypertrophic or keloid scarring, caused by excess collagen deposition and persistent inflammation. Risk factors for excess scarring include genetic predisposition and traumatic, infected or high-tension wounds.
Aside from being unsightly, excessive scarring can be tender or restrict movement.
Treatment options include specialised dressings, medical treatment, surgical excision and stem cell therapy. Dr George will be able to assess any scarring and offer the most appropriate treatment for you.
Gynaecomastia
Gynaecomastia occurs when male breast tissue enlarges, and is not simply due to excess fat deposition. This condition affects up to 30% of men during their lifetime, making it a relatively common concern. The condition may present unilaterally (one side) or bilaterally (both sides), with affected tissue typically feeling firm or rubbery beneath the nipple area.
The hallmark of gynaecomastia is a lump or enlargement beneath the nipple area. This can often be sensitive as well. Many patients share similar experiences: avoiding certain activities, modifying their clothing choices, or experiencing decreased self-confidence.
If these experiences resonate with you, it’s important to understand that you’re not alone. While gynaecomastia rarely presents medical concerns, its psychological and social impact can be significant.
Dr George will perform a thorough investigation to ensure the condition is not caused due to an underlying medical condition. When appropriate, treatment can be offered, usually as a day procedure.