Breast Reduction Surgery

Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to a more balanced and confident you with a breast reduction – a life-changing procedure designed to reduce the size and weight of your breasts

RELATED: Breast Reduction FAQs – Q&As about Breast Reduction Surgery

How common is breast reduction surgery in the UK?

Breast reduction surgery is relatively common in the UK. According to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), it was the 10th most popular cosmetic surgery procedure among women in the UK in 2019.

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to address issues caused by excessively large breasts. While having large breasts may seem desirable to some, they can lead to a variety of physical and emotional health issues, including back, neck, and shoulder pain, poor posture, difficulty breathing, and limitations in daily activities.

RELATED: Does Heavy Breast Cause Back Pain?

Breast reduction surgery aims to reduce the size and weight of the breasts by removing excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin, resulting in breasts that are more proportionate to the rest of the body. The procedure can also include reshaping and repositioning of the nipples and areolas for a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Aside from the aesthetic benefits, breast reduction surgery can also improve functionality and alleviate chronic health issues associated with overly large breasts, such as dermatological conditions, discomfort during physical activity, and emotional distress.

Beast reduction surgery is a highly individualised procedure, and the exact techniques used will depend on each patient’s unique needs and goals. A qualified and experienced plastic surgeon at Centre for Surgery will work closely with each patient to develop a personalised treatment plan that addresses their concerns while ensuring their safety and well-being throughout the process.

At Centre for Surgery, we only show photos of breast reduction patients who have given full written consent to allow their images on our website.

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RELATED: Breast Reduction Surgery Before & After Photos

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Breast reduction surgery, masterfully carried out by our skilled surgeons at Centre for Surgery in London, brings forth a multitude of benefits that considerably enhance both the physical and emotional well-being of individuals. This procedure stands out not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for the substantial medical advantages it offers, particularly when performed at a distinguished clinic such as Centre for Surgery.

Alleviation of Chronic Pain

A significant number of women experience debilitating back, neck pain, and migraines attributed to the excessive weight of disproportionately large breasts. Undergoing breast reduction surgery can provide significant relief from this chronic discomfort by lightening the load on the upper back, thus mitigating the strain that contributes to these pains.

Enhanced Quality of Sleep

The discomfort associated with large breasts often complicates achieving a comfortable sleeping position, with some individuals resorting to wearing bras to bed for additional support. Following breast reduction surgery, many report a notable improvement in their ability to sleep comfortably, enjoying the freedom to rest in various positions without the need for extra support.

Mitigation of Skin Irritation

The challenge of finding well-fitting bras is a common issue among women with larger breasts, often resulting in chafing and skin irritation. Breast reduction surgery simplifies the task of finding bras that fit well, thereby decreasing the risk of discomfort and skin issues that arise from ill-fitting undergarments.

Empowerment through Physical Activity

The cumbersome nature of large breasts can severely restrict the ability to engage in physical exercise, impacting overall health and well-being. This surgery offers individuals the liberty to participate in a variety of physical activities without the burden of discomfort or self-consciousness, thus promoting a healthier lifestyle.

Broadened Clothing Options

The quest for clothing that fits and flatters can be daunting for individuals with large breasts. After undergoing breast reduction, patients find themselves able to explore a more diverse array of clothing options, finding pieces that not only fit well but also enhance their personal style and confidence.

Restoration of Self-Esteem

The psychological impact of having disproportionately large breasts can significantly affect an individual’s self-esteem. Through breast reduction surgery, patients achieve a more balanced and proportional physique, which plays a crucial role in restoring self-confidence and improving overall mental health.

Posture Improvement

The excessive weight of large breasts often results in poor posture and related musculoskeletal issues. Patients typically observe a notable improvement in posture following the reduction procedure, as the decreased weight allows for a more natural and comfortable stance, alleviating the physical discomforts associated with poor posture.

RELATED: The Transformative Effects of Breast Reduction Surgery

The best way to determine if you are a good candidate for breast reduction surgery is to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. They will be able to evaluate your health, medical history, and specific concerns to determine if the procedure is appropriate for you.

Some factors that may make you a good candidate for breast reduction surgery include having large, heavy breasts that cause neck, back, or shoulder pain, skin irritation or rashes, or difficulty finding clothes that fit properly. Additionally, if you are self-conscious or embarrassed about the size of your breasts and this is impacting your self-esteem or quality of life, you may be a good candidate for the procedure.

However, breast reduction surgery is not recommended for women who are planning to have children or are currently breastfeeding, as the procedure can affect milk production and breastfeeding ability. Additionally, if you have a history of poor wound healing or are a smoker, your surgeon may advise against the procedure.

Questions to ask at your breast reduction consultation

The ideal age for breast reduction

Our surgeons often get asked if there is an ideal age for breast reduction. In our practice, we treat a wide age range from those from 18 years of age through to women in their 30s, 40s or 50s. A breast reduction can significantly improve the quality of life for many women and can reduce or eliminate the discomfort from having overly large breasts.

For our younger patients, there are a number of valid clinical reasons to have the breast reduction procedure.

Breast reduction clinical indications in younger women:

• Significant back or neck pain
• Rashes or fungal infections beneath the breast folds
• Pain from bra straps
• Development of a suboptimal posture with stooping
• Interruption to sleep
• Are unable to find the correct size clothing for their frame
• Are keen to do sports and the problems which large breasts can cause with activities such as gymnastics

The issue of large breasts extends beyond aesthetic considerations, often manifesting as a source of considerable physical discomfort and medical concerns for many individuals. Disproportionately large and heavy breasts can impose a significant burden on a woman’s frame, leading to a spectrum of physical symptoms that suggest the potential need for a breast reduction procedure. Recognising these signs is crucial for those considering whether a breast reduction could be beneficial for their health and well-being.

Experiencing Pain Across Multiple Areas

One of the most common symptoms associated with large breasts is persistent pain, encompassing the back, breasts, neck, and shoulders. This pain is typically due to the excess weight the upper body has to support, leading to strain and discomfort in these areas.

Numbness

A frequent complaint is numbness in the breasts, which may also radiate to the arms, hands, and fingers. This sensation, or rather the lack thereof, is often a consequence of the heavy breast weight causing poor posture and compressing nerves, leading to reduced sensation in these regions.

Skin Conditions

Rashes and skin infections underneath the breasts are a telltale sign of the challenges posed by large breasts. These conditions result from heat and moisture becoming trapped in these areas, creating an ideal environment for irritation and infections to develop.

Visible Physical Marks

Deep indentations or grooves on the shoulders from bra straps are a direct indicator of the undue burden placed on the body by the weight of the breasts. These marks are physically uncomfortable and can also be a source of self-consciousness.

RELATED: Getting Rid of Bra Strap Indentations

Exercise and Physical Activity Limitations

A significant reduction in the ability to engage in exercise and other physical activities is a notable symptom, as large breasts can hinder movement and make physical exertion uncomfortable or even painful. This limitation can lead to a cascading effect of other health issues due to a lack of physical activity.

Breathing Difficulties

In extreme cases, the excessive weight on the chest can contribute to shortness of breath. This symptom is particularly prevalent when the breasts are excessively large, adding undue pressure on the chest and lungs, and impacting respiratory function.

At Centre for Surgery, we strongly believe that the success of any procedure, including breast reduction can be improved with proper patient preparation. We strive to go above and beyond to make sure that all our patients are prepared as well as possible for surgery – physically, mentally and emotionally.

Before your breast reduction, you will need to:

• Stop smoking a few weeks before your surgery. It is vitally important to stop smoking at least four weeks prior to the procedure, as the risk of nipple and areola necrosis is much higher in those who continue to smoke up to the day of their procedure.
• Avoid taking blood-thinning medication, aspirin and herbal supplements
• Undergo a medical evaluation
• You may need to have a baseline mammogram to detect any future changes in breast tissue

Scheduling a Mammogram prior to your breast reduction

A mammogram is an X-ray examination that may be performed before or after your procedure to identify changes to breast tissue. If you have a personal or family history of breast cancer or any other risk factors for breast cancer, your surgeon may recommend a baseline mammogram to be done before your procedure.

Breast reduction is performed at our Baker Street clinic as a day case under TIVA general anaesthesia, which means you will be admitted and discharged on the same day. This means you can recover in the comfort of your own home. Day-case surgery results in better postoperative outcomes compared with traditional hospital inpatient surgery with a reduced incidence of postoperative complications.

Short Scar – Vertical (Lollipop) Incision

The vertical or lollipop incision is the preferred technique for breast reduction surgery. It involves an incision made around the nipple-areola complex, followed by a vertical incision down to the breast crease. This technique minimizes the amount of scarring around the breast, making it an ideal choice for patients who require smaller breast reductions and have good skin quality. The short scar technique allows for faster healing and less scarring compared to other incision types.

Inverted T (Anchor) Incision – for Larger Breast Reductions

The inverted T or anchor incision is used for larger breast reductions or significant breast ptosis. This incision type involves an incision made around the nipple-areola complex, followed by a vertical incision down to the breast crease, and a horizontal incision along the breast fold. While this technique may result in additional scarring, it is necessary to achieve optimal results for patients who require significant breast tissue removal and lift.

Types of Breast Reduction Glandular Pedicle – 3 Different Approaches to Surgery

In addition to the different incision types used, there are also different glandular pedicle approaches to surgery that can be employed to achieve optimal results.

1. Inferior Pedicle

The inferior pedicle is the most popular glandular pedicle technique used in breast reduction surgery. This technique is popular because it is versatile, safe and maintains nipple blood supply and sensation, as well as the ability to breastfeed after surgery. It is commonly used in combination with an inverted T shape incision for larger breast reductions.

2. Superior Pedicle

The superior pedicle technique is ideal for patients who only require a small amount of nipple elevation and tightening of the inferior breast skin. This approach is often used in breast lift and small breast reduction procedures with a short scar technique.

3. Medial Pedicle

The medial pedicle technique is a newer approach to breast reduction surgery that allows for the maintenance of superior and medial fullness of the breast, enhancing breast cleavage, which can be problematic with other techniques. This technique is versatile and can be combined with either a short scar or inverted T shape incision, making it suitable for small to very large breast reduction procedures.

Scar Minimisation Techniques

While incision lines are permanent, there are various techniques available to minimise scarring. Advanced surgical techniques aim to reduce scar tissue formation, and proper postoperative care can promote optimal healing. While scars may be visible, they are typically concealed within the bra and can fade over time.

Combining Liposuction with Breast Reduction Surgery:

In some cases, additional contouring may be necessary to achieve optimal results. Liposuction is a popular technique used to contour the outer portion of the breast, lateral chest, and back regions.

The technique involves the removal of excess fatty tissue in the areas surrounding the breast, such as the lateral chest and back regions. This is often done to provide a better definition to the breast and to further sculpt the body.

Scarless Breast Reduction – Liposuction Breast Reduction:

A scarless breast reduction is a relatively new technique that removes excess fat from the breast using liposuction without the need for incisions on the breast. However, it is important to note that this technique does not remove excess skin, which can result in droopy breasts. Therefore, a scarless breast reduction is suitable for only a few select patients, typically those who are younger, have high skin quality and have no skin laxity.

Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. Typically, this surgery takes approximately two and a half to three hours, but this duration can vary depending on the individual case and the complexity of the procedure. Below is a breakdown of the critical steps involved in breast reduction surgery, providing insights into what patients can expect during this life-changing journey.

Initial Preparation and Anesthesia

The journey begins with the administration of a general anaesthetic, ensuring you are fully unconscious and free from pain throughout the surgery. This critical first step paves the way for a smooth and controlled surgical process. As you drift into a state of unconsciousness, your surgeon meticulously plans the incision strategy tailored to your specific requirements. The type and pattern of the incisions are carefully chosen based on your unique breast anatomy, desired outcomes, and the extent of reduction required, which you can explore in detail in the ‘types of breast reduction’ section provided.

Tissue Removal for Size Reduction

Following the initial incisions, the surgeon proceeds to remove the excess fat, skin, and glandular tissue from the breasts. This step is pivotal in achieving a significant reduction in breast size, tailored to your body’s proportions and the pre-discussed goals of the surgery. The amount of tissue removed varies from patient to patient, depending on the initial breast size and the desired final outcome.

Reshaping and Repositioning the Areola

An integral part of creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing breast shape involves the reshaping of the areola. Any excess tissue around the areola is carefully trimmed away before it is repositioned to align with the newly contoured breasts. This meticulous adjustment ensures that the areolas are proportionate to the new breast size and optimally located to enhance the overall aesthetic appearance.

Closing the Incisions

After the necessary adjustments and removals, the surgeon skillfully closes the incisions with dissolvable sutures. These sutures are designed to gradually dissolve within the body over time, eliminating the need for removal during post-surgery follow-ups. This innovative approach minimises scarring and facilitates a smoother healing process.

Post-Surgery Care and Recovery

Upon awakening from the anaesthesia and after a brief period of observation, you are provided with a compression garment. This garment plays a crucial role in reducing swelling and supporting the breasts as they heal. Additionally, pain management is addressed through prescribed painkillers to ensure your comfort during the recovery phase. Alongside medication, your surgeon provides comprehensive after-care instructions. These guidelines are essential for promoting a comfortable and effective healing process, covering everything from wound care to activity restrictions and follow-up appointments.

Recovering from breast reduction surgery is a crucial phase that demands patience and careful adherence to post-operative guidelines to ensure the best possible outcomes. While the procedure itself marks a significant step towards improving your quality of life, understanding the recovery process is essential for a smooth transition back to normalcy. This detailed guide offers insights into what you can expect during the recovery period, along with practical advice for managing the healing process.

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Immediate Post-Surgery Experience

In the immediate aftermath of breast reduction surgery, it’s common to experience swelling and tenderness around the surgical area. These are normal post-operative reactions as your body initiates the healing process. The intensity of these symptoms typically peaks within the first few days post-surgery and gradually diminishes over the following 2-3 weeks. During this initial phase, it’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s advice closely, taking any prescribed medications to manage discomfort and inflammation.

Resuming Daily Activities

As the swelling and tenderness begin to subside, you’ll find yourself able to gradually resume most of your daily activities. However, it’s important to heed your surgeon’s advice regarding physical exertion. Strenuous activities, including exercise and heavy lifting, should be avoided for up to 6 weeks post-surgery. This precaution is vital to prevent any strain on the healing tissues and to ensure the integrity of your surgical results.

RELATED: How to Reduce Bruising and Swelling after Breast Reduction Surgery

Returning to Work

Most patients report feeling comfortable enough to return to work approximately one week following their breast reduction surgery. This timeline can vary depending on the nature of your job and the extent of your surgery. If your role involves physical labor or strenuous activities, it may be necessary to take a longer period of rest or request modified duties upon your return.

Evolution of Breast Appearance

Initially, you may notice that your breasts appear tighter and are positioned higher than anticipated. This is a normal part of the healing process as the tissues adjust and settle. Over time, typically within the first few months, your breasts will gradually descend to their intended position, appearing more natural and aligned with your body’s proportions. The complete subsidence of post-surgical swelling, necessary to reveal the final outcome of your surgery, can take at least three months. Patience is key, as your body adapts and the true results of your procedure emerge.

Enhancing Recovery through Pre-Surgery Weight Loss

Interestingly, the recovery timeline and the visibility of your breast reduction results can be positively influenced by pre-surgery weight loss. Patients who achieve a healthier weight before undergoing surgery often experience a more straightforward recovery and quicker realisation of their surgical goals. This preparatory step can enhance the overall outcome and satisfaction with the surgery.

It is important to note that while scarring is an inevitable part of breast reduction surgery, our surgeons at Centre for Surgery use advanced techniques to minimise the appearance of scars. They are trained to perform the short-scar breast reduction technique, which uses a lollipop-shaped incision, avoiding the larger horizontal incision beneath the breast that is common with the traditional anchor or inverted T incision methods. Scars also tend to fade over time, and our dermal clinicians can perform additional scar minimisation techniques to further improve your results.

In some cases, breast liposuction alone can be used to reduce breast size, resulting in minimal scarring. This technique is usually recommended for patients with good skin quality and minor skin laxity.

RELATED: How to Minimise Scars after Breast Reduction Surgery

Your surgeon will discuss all of these options with you during your consultation, as well as the potential risks and benefits of each technique, to help you make an informed decision about the right breast reduction method for you.

Reduction mammoplasty has been successfully performed for many years with an excellent safety profile. Women should only choose a reputable provider with years of experience in breast surgery. With a fully certified plastic surgeon at Centre for Surgery, you can be confident in having made the very best choice for breast reduction coupled with an outstanding package of aftercare to reduce the risk of complications.

Risks of Breast Reduction

As with any surgical procedure, breast reduction has potential risks. These include:

• Bleeding
• Anaesthetic risks
• Venous thromboembolism
• Infection
• Delayed wound healing
• Nipples that lose sensation
• Breastfeeding difficulties
• Need for revision surgery

What is the risk of nipple necrosis after breast reduction?

Nipple necrosis is a rare complication that can occur after breast reduction surgery. It occurs when the blood supply to the nipple is compromised, which can lead to tissue death and necrosis of the nipple. The risk of nipple necrosis is generally low, but it is a serious complication that can occur.

The factors that can increase the risk of nipple necrosis include:

Smoking

Nicotine constricts blood vessels, which can decrease blood flow to the nipple and increase the risk of necrosis.

Large breast reductions

The greater the amount of tissue removed, the greater the risk of necrosis.

Anaesthesia

General anaesthesia can decrease blood flow to the nipple, increasing the risk of necrosis.

Previous breast surgery

Any previous breast surgery can increase the risk of necrosis.

Certain medical conditions

Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity, may increase the risk of necrosis.

If nipple necrosis occurs, it can be treated with various methods, including dressings, topical creams, and surgical intervention. In some cases, the nipple may heal on its own. However, in severe cases, the nipple may need to be removed.

Mummy Makeover

At the heart of a mummy makeover is the goal to restore and enhance the body’s appearance, focusing on areas most impacted by pregnancy and breastfeeding. This customised procedure typically includes a combination of breast remodelling—be it through reduction, augmentation, or lift—alongside abdominal contouring with a tummy tuck, and targeted liposuction to reshape the waist, hips, and thighs. Surgeons at Centre for Surgery are at the forefront of body contouring techniques, offering tailored mummy makeovers that address individual concerns and aspirations. The holistic approach of a mummy makeover rejuvenates the affected areas and does so in a transformative and harmonious way, aligning with the patient’s overall aesthetic vision.

Breast Reduction and Lift

For many women, the goal isn’t just to reduce the size of their breasts but also to elevate and reshape them for a more youthful and uplifted profile. This is where the combination of breast reduction and a breast lift, or mastopexy, plays a crucial role. While breast reduction focuses on removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin to achieve a more proportionate size, a breast lift targets the elevation and repositioning of the breasts for an enhanced contour and firmness. These procedures offer significant aesthetic and functional benefits, creating a more balanced and rejuvenated breast appearance. Most breast reductions inherently incorporate elements of a lift, ensuring that the final result is not only smaller but also aesthetically pleasing and lifted.

Areola Reduction

An integral component of achieving a natural and aesthetically pleasing breast appearance is the consideration of areola size and positioning. During the combined procedure, surgeons may perform an areola reduction to align with the newly contoured breast shape and size. This adjustment ensures that the areolas are proportionate to the enhanced breast profile, further refining the overall aesthetic outcome.

Adjusting the areola size and position not only enhances the visual symmetry of the breasts but also aligns with the patient’s aesthetic goals, meticulously outlined in their personalised treatment plan. This attention to detail is crucial for ensuring that the final results resonate with the patient’s envisioned appearance, offering a bespoke approach to cosmetic breast surgery.