Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammaplasty, is a commonly performed procedure designed to reduce the size of a woman’s breast, often to make them more symmetrical, or better aligned to the body’s natural shape and size.

Excessively large breasts can bring on a number of related problems including back, neck and shoulder problems, poor posture or a shortness of breath. It can also lead to the individual feeling uncomfortable or self conscious in social situations. This in turn can lead to more serious issues such as the individual becoming more introverted or depressed.

Subsequently, breast reduction surgery does tend to be carried out for physical rather than cosmetic purposes, and the patient does tend to be more mature, and full understand the implications and risks of the surgery involved.

Breast Reduction Surgery

The surgery itself will generally be performed under a general anaesthetic, and in a hospital. The procedure can take anything between two to four hours, depending on the individual’s circumstances and requirements.

Techniques for breast reduction surgery can vary; however the most common technique involves an anchor shaped incision that circles the areola, extending downwards following the natural curve of the crease underneath the breast. 

The surgeon will then remove the excess breast tissue, and bring the areola and the nipple back into their new position. In the majority of instances, the nipple can remain attached to the blood supply, thereby retaining as much of the sensation and feeling as possible. In some instances however, particularly on a larger breast, the nipple may have to be removed, and grafter onto a higher position on the breast. This is likely to result in a loss of sensation in the nipple and some of the surrounding tissue. 

Breast Reduction Surgery Aftercare

Following reduction mammaplasty surgery, you’ll be required to wear bandages and a surgical bra over the gauze dressings for a number of days. There will also be plastic tubes attached to the breasts which are used to drain off any excess fluid that might otherwise gather. These tubes will likely be removed within 3-4 days of the surgery, and it is likely that you will be in hospital for 2-3 days of the surgery.  The stitches will be removed within 7-14 days of the surgery.

The pain around the breast area is likely to remain for 3-4 days, and you will be advised to avoid strenuous activity for a period of 4-6 weeks following the surgery. 

Breast Reduction Surgery:

As with all forms of surgery, especially those carried out under a general anaesthetic, there are risks involved, and it is likely that your surgeon will discuss these with you prior to your procedure.

Breast reduction surgery does leave scarring in the areas around the nipple, from the nipple to the breast crease, and along the crease to the arm pit.  The actual amount of scarring does depend on the quality of the stitching, although these scars can be covered by items of clothing.

Some patients can also develop other complications such as infections around the nipples, however the majority of these can now be treated with antibiotic creams.

Cost Of Breast Reduction Surgery:

£3,500 - £5,500