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

The National Health Service (NHS) also provides breast reduction surgery to patients who meet specific criteria, such as experiencing physical discomfort or psychological distress due to the size of their breasts. However, due to limited resources and funding, the NHS prioritises those who have the most severe symptoms, and the waiting list for the surgery can be long.

It’s important to note that the popularity of breast reduction surgery can change over time based on the trends, availability of new techniques, and patient preferences. Also, the number of surgeries performed by private clinics and individual practitioners may not be reported to BAAPS or NHS, so the actual number of surgeries performed in the UK may be higher.

In any case, it’s important to remember that breast reduction surgery is a major procedure and should be carefully considered. It’s important to have realistic expectations, understand the risks and potential complications, and choose a qualified, experienced and certified plastic surgeon.

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.

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.

It’s important to note that breast 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.

RELATED: Breast Reduction Surgery Before & After Photos

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, can provide numerous benefits for women who are struggling with the physical and emotional challenges of overly large breasts. Here are some of the main benefits of breast reduction surgery:

• Alleviates Physical Discomfort: Women with large breasts often experience chronic pain and discomfort in the neck, shoulders, and back due to the weight of their breasts. Breast reduction surgery can significantly reduce the size and weight of the breasts, alleviating these physical symptoms and improving overall comfort.
• Improves Posture: The weight of large breasts can also cause poor posture, leading to additional strain on the back and neck muscles. Breast reduction surgery can improve posture and relieve this strain, resulting in a more comfortable and healthy alignment of the spine.
• Enhances Physical Activity: Women with large breasts may find it difficult to engage in physical activities such as running, jumping, or even simple activities such as bending over. Breast reduction surgery can help women feel more comfortable and confident engaging in physical activities, improving their overall health and well-being.
• Boosts Self-Confidence: Large breasts can cause emotional distress, including self-consciousness, embarrassment, and low self-esteem. Breast reduction surgery can improve body image and self-confidence, allowing women to feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin.
• Improves Clothing Fit: Large breasts can make it difficult to find clothing that fits properly and can be uncomfortable to wear. After breast reduction surgery, clothing can fit better, and women can enjoy a wider range of clothing options.
• Reduces the Risk of Skin Irritation and Infections: Women with large breasts can be more prone to skin irritation, rashes, and infections, particularly in the folds beneath the breasts. Breast reduction surgery can reduce the amount of skin in this area, reducing the risk of these types of issues.

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.

Ultimately, the decision to undergo breast reduction surgery is a personal one that should be made after a thorough consultation with your surgeon and careful consideration of the potential risks and benefits.

Questions to ask at your breast reduction consultation

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 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 infection 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

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.

Signs you’re ready for a breast reduction

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.

How Breast Reduction Surgery Is Performed

The reduction mammoplasty takes, on average, about three to four hours to complete, depending on the extent of correction and if any additional procedures, such as supplementary liposuction for the axillary region, are required. You will be placed under TIVA general anaesthesia. After careful preoperative marking, the procedure involves making an incision, after which the glandular tissue, fat and skin will be removed from the breasts. This will help to reshape the breasts, as well as reduce volume. During this procedure, the nipples may also be repositioned. However, the nipples and areola will remain attached to nerves and blood vessels. In very large breast reduction surgery, it may be required to detach the nipple and areola completely before moving them upwards. In this case, nipple sensation and the ability to breastfeed will most likely be permanently impaired.

When it comes to breast reduction surgery, choosing the appropriate incision type is essential for achieving the best possible outcome for the patient. A skilled plastic surgeon will evaluate the patient’s unique needs and anatomy before determining the appropriate technique. The choice of incision depends on various factors, including the amount of skin to be removed, the distance the nipple needs to be lifted, and the amount of breast tissue that requires removal.

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 no skin laxity.

Like any surgical procedure, breast reduction surgery carries some risks and potential complications. It is important to discuss these with your surgeon before the procedure and to have realistic expectations about the outcome.

Some of the most common risks and complications of breast reduction surgery include the following:

• Haematoma or seroma: These are collections of blood or fluid that can occur after surgery. Haematomas may require additional surgery to remove, while seromas may be treated with a needle or drainage tube.
• Infection: Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection. Your surgeon will prescribe antibiotics to reduce this risk, and you will be instructed to keep the incision site clean and dry.
• Scarring: Breast reduction surgery results in scars that are permanent, but will fade over time. However, in some cases, the scars can be thick, wide, or raised.
• Changes in sensation: Some patients may experience changes in sensation in the nipples or breast skin following surgery. This is usually temporary, but in some cases, it can be permanent.
• Asymmetry: Breasts may not be perfectly symmetrical after surgery, but the surgeon will make every effort to make them as close as possible.
• Revision surgery: In some cases, a second surgery may be necessary to correct complications or achieve the desired results.
• Risk of complications with anaesthesia

It’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that every patient’s results may vary. To reduce the risk of complications, it’s crucial to choose a qualified, experienced, and certified plastic surgeon, and follow all post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon.

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:

1. Smoking: Nicotine constricts blood vessels, which can decrease blood flow to the nipple and increase the risk of necrosis.
2. Large breast reductions: The greater the amount of tissue removed, the greater the risk of necrosis.
3. Anaesthesia: General anaesthesia can decrease blood flow to the nipple, increasing the risk of necrosis.
4. Previous breast surgery: Any previous breast surgery can increase the risk of necrosis.
5. Certain medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity, may increase the risk of necrosis.

If nipple necrosis does occur, it can be treated with a variety of 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.

It’s important to note that this is a rare complication, and most patients do not experience it. Your plastic surgeon will give you all the information about the risk and benefits of the surgery and will also provide you with post-operative care instructions that can decrease the risk of complications.

The decision to undergo breast reduction surgery is a personal one, and it’s important to choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon who can guide you through the process and help you achieve your desired results. At Centre for Surgery, the first step in your journey towards breast reduction surgery involves a thorough consultation with one of our specialist plastic surgeons.

During the consultation, the surgeon will take the time to listen to your concerns and goals, as well as performing a comprehensive physical examination to assess your breast size, shape, and overall body contours. They will then explain the different breast reduction techniques available and answer any questions you may have about the procedure.

If breast reduction surgery is deemed suitable for you, the surgeon will create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. This plan will include details about the surgical technique, expected recovery time, and any potential risks associated with the procedure. The surgeon will also provide you with a written quotation for the cost of the surgery, which will be sent to you the next working day after your consultation.

At Centre for Surgery, we understand that the cost of breast reduction surgery can be a concern for many patients. That’s why we offer a range of payment options, including financing options that are exclusive to our practice. Your patient coordinator will review all of the payment options available to you during your consultation, ensuring that you have all of the information you need to make an informed decision about your care.

RealSelf Top Doctors 

In addition to our comprehensive treatment package, we are proud to be recognised as RealSelf Top Doctors. This status is awarded to less than 10% of the RealSelf doctor community and is earned by achieving consistently high patient satisfaction, receiving excellent feedback on expert answers to patient questions, and investing significant time in Q&A and other doctor activities. As RealSelf Top Doctors, we are rated among the best surgeons in the United Kingdom and are committed to providing our patients with the highest level of care and support.

Medical References – Further Reading

• Breast Reduction Surgery – ASPS
• Breast Reduction Surgery – WebMD
• Breast Reduction – Mayo Clinic