Breast Reduction

Some women suffer from having developed very large breasts from an early age. Often this runs in the family but sometimes significant breast enlargement can also occur following pregnancies. Women with large breasts can suffer from a range of debilitating physical symptoms such as back pain, neck and shoulder pain, a feeling of heaviness in the breasts, indentation marks on the skin of the shoulder region where bra straps have dug in, restriction in physical exercise, infections and rashes occurring under both breasts, as well as pschycosocial symptoms arising from an unnatural disproportion between breast size and the rest of the body habitus leading to low self esteem, embarrassment in relationships, difficulty finding clothes to fit, lack of confidence to play sport. 

A breast reduction is an operation performed to reduce the size of one or both breasts. It is performed under a general anaesthetic and the operation takes 3-4 hours and requires a hospital stay of 2-3 days. There are different technical ways the operation can be carried out depending on a number of individual factors, and this determines the extent and location of the resultant scars on the breast. Broadly speaking, in all breast reduction operations, cuts are made on the under surface of the breast and excess skin and breast tissue is excised together with a reduction in the diameter of the areola (the pink/brown part of the nipple complex). The nipple is moved to a higher, more youthful position and the wounds are stitched with dissolving sutures, and covered with light dressings. The resultant scars are shaped like an inverted “T” shape and include a circular scar around the new nipple/areolar complex, a vertical scar passing from the nipple to underneath the breast, which joins a long curved scar passing in the breast fold. In some individuals, it is possible to perform the surgery without the scar in the breast fold, leaving only a circular scar around the nipple and a vertical scar. 

This is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures and has high patient satisfaction and low complication rate. 

Breast Reduction

AT A GLANCE

Length of surgery:
3-4 hours
Anaesthesia:
General anaesthetic
Overnight or day case:
2 nights stay
Recovery:
2 weeks off work
Avoid driving 1-2 weeks
Wear sports bra for 6 weeks
No heavy lifting/gym/sport for 6 weeks
Follow-up:
7-10 days, 3 months, 6 months

FURTHER INFORMATION

Frequently asked questions

Not everyone is suitable for a breast reduction. Suitability is a matter for you and Mr Johnson to discuss in clinic, following a thorough analysis of your medical history and a thorough clinical consultation.

The surgery visually improves the contour and shape of the breast and places the nipple in a more youthful position leaving the final size and shape of the breast more in keeping with the rest of the body frame. The operation reduces the sensation of heaviness in the breasts and it often improves symptoms of neck and shoulder pain but this is not guaranteed. The operation is very successful at increasing patient confidence and improving self esteem. Patients who have had a breast reduction enjoy participating in sport and being able to wear clothes and swimwear that they would have previously been too embarrassed to wear.

There will be a circular scar around the nipple/areolar complex and a vertical scar passing from the nipple scar down to the breast fold. Depending on which technique of breast reduction you are suitable for, these will either be the only scars or else you will have an additional curved scar along the breast fold. All scars are designed to be hidden under the average bra or bikini top. During your consultation, Mr Johnson will discuss with you whether you are suitable for the longer scar technique or the shorter vertical scar technique.

During the operation strong painkillers are administered so that when patients wake up from the surgery they will be comfortable. It is normal for patients to experience some discomfort from the scar line and for the first day or two postoperatively, strong painkillers can be administered intravenously if required. On discharge from hospital, any discomfort from the wounds can usually be managed with simple tablet type painkillers such as paracetamol etc.

Following surgery, you should wear a firm sports bra for six weeks. For the first two weeks postoperatively, you should not lift anything heavier than a kettle. It is normal to feel lethargic and tired for the first 2 weeks following surgery. Depending on your job you can usually return to work for light duties after 2-3 weeks. A gradual increase in light exercise is encouraged after your first wound check following discharge from hospital, but no sport, strenuous exercises or weight lifting should be undertaken until six weeks following surgery or until you are seen by Mr Johnson for review.

The visual improvement in breast contour will be immediately apparent following a breast reduction. However, there may be some bruising and swelling which may last several weeks. The scars will undergo a natural maturation process involving a series of colour and texture changes over a period usually varying from 6 months to 2 years. The breast shape will change a little over the next 12 months and the final result can usually be judged at around 1 year following surgery. The results of a breast reduction are long lasting provided your operation is done at an age when your breasts have stopped growing. Large fluctuations in weight and further pregnancies can lead to a change is breast size and shape, and the normal age related effects on skin laxity can lead to a development of loose skin and a drooping of the breast tissue.

Complications are uncommon following breast reduction surgery. During your initial consultation Mr Johnson will have a full discussion with you about the risks and complications of surgery. You will be given an information leaflet about breast reduction surgery which includes complications and if you decide to go ahead with surgery, these risks will again be discussed as part of the consenting process. Fortunately, with correct patient selection and appropriate procedure selection, the risks are kept to an absolute minimum. It is important that you should be reassured that Mr Johnson will not agree to perform any cosmetic procedure on you unless he feels the benefits significantly outweigh the risks.

Mr Johnson will come and see you on the ward after your surgery and will review you everyday throughout your hospital stay. After you have been discharged Mr Johnson will arrange to see you in clinic after 7-10 days to review the wound. He will then make arrangements to see you in clinic for longer term follow up appointments. You will be given contact details for the hospital and Mr Johnson’s secretary should you wish at any time to discuss further aspects of your care or make additional arrangements for review.

Treatment costs

Initial consultation

£220

Breast reduction

The exact surgery cost will be confirmed after your consultation. This will include the hospital, surgeon and anaesthetic fees.

For more information click here

Booking a consultation

To book an appointment to see Mr Johnson please contact his private secretary and practice manager:

Marcia Pillai
Tel: 07780 514777
E-mail: davidjohnson@doctors.org.uk

Make an enquiry

BEFORE & AFTER GALLERY

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VIEW ALL BEFORE & AFTERS

PATIENT REVIEWS

Thank you ever so much for what you have done for me. I’m over the moon with the result. Thanks again. You’ve changed my whole life.

Breast augmentation, Patient KM

Thanks for all you’ve done for me. You’re the best!

Facelift, upper and lower blepharoplasties, fat transfer, Patient RB

I just wanted to say a personal thank you from the bottom of my heart for my nose. To me my nose is perfect. I love it so much. I can’t possibly explain how much you have changed my life for the better. I just wanted you to know how much you have changed me. I am a different person now with so much more confidence. I know to you, you probably think you are just doing your job but you are not – you are making dreams come true, especially mine. Thank you so so so much for making my dream come true.

Rhinoplasty, Patient Debbie

I would like to thank you and your team so very much once again for your kindness and professional service given to me at the Ridgeway hospital. Having my rhinoplasty operation has given me much more confidence.

Rhinoplasty, Patient SS

Just want to say many thanks for all your support and help both before and after my operation. I am very pleased with the results and appreciated your kindness, throughout my stay at the Manor.

Exchange breast implants with capsulectomies, Patient EH

I don’t think I will ever be able to fully let you know just how grateful I am to you. All you have done for me this last year has changed my life for the better in so many ways… I’ll never be able to put into words what your work has done for me, not only physically but mentally. I have more confidence, more courage, and now after these operations more hope. You have given me one of the greatest gifts – the opportunity of an optimistic future. One in which I can now look in the mirror. Thank you so much for your support, your time but most of all your kindness.

Post weight loss body contouring surgery, Patient BP

Many thanks for your kindness and care. You have changed my life for the better.

Brachioplasty, abdominoplasty, thigh lift, Patient JJ

Thank you very much for my new nose! It has made such a difference to me. I no longer worry when people see me in profile. My friends and family who know about the operation have all said how natural it looks and how well it suits me, so thank you for doing such a good job! I really am thrilled, and much happier.

Rhinoplasty, Patient NA

You really do work miracles! Many, many thanks for the fabulous results. Ts superb. Feeling great too.

Abdominoplasty, Patient LB

Thank you so much for your wonderful work. You have given me so much more confidence. Thank you again for everything you have done for me.

Breast reduction and liposuction, Patient MK

I feel the need to write a few lines of thanks following the breast augmentation surgery you performed on me last month. I knew this was something I wanted desperately for a very long time but the final result, I have to say, is above and beyond all my hopes and expectations. I am totally amazed and reeling still at the new me, both physically and mentally.

Breast augmentation, Patient AH

Thank you so much for the amazing surgery that you have done on our little girl. We felt so confident in you, and knew that if we needed to hand her over to anyone, we wanted it to be you. Thank you for allowing her the chance to grow up normally.

Craniofacial surgery, Parents of patient SH

I would just like to say thank you for your care in performing my surgery. You have made a big difference and given me the confidence I needed. You are a true professional.

Rhinoplasty, Patient SJ

A big thank you for everything that you have done for me. It’s a dream come true.

Blepharoplasty, Patient MO

Thank you so very much for doing my surgery, and for your compassion and care. The results are wonderful. You have given me back my self esteem.

Patient EG, Breast reduction

Thank you for repairing me and making me feel normal again! The operation has already had a huge impact on my life.

, Patient SM

Thank you for the fantastic job you have done for my daughter. You saved her life and gave her the best possible chance in life.

Craniofacial surgery, Patient KJ

Thank you for all your care in arranging my breast augmentation. I’m delighted with the results!

Breast augmentation, Patient V

I wanted to thank you for an amazing mastopexy. I’ve never been so happy! The level of care you showed me and my family was fantastic.

Mastopexy, Patient KW

I love my new nose. It means so much to start my new job feeling confident.

Rhinoplasty, Patient NA

This seems so little in thanks for all you have done for me. It seems such a big step to take, but you gave me confidence and encouragement to go on with the operations. Thank you so much… I feel very honoured to have this operation performed by you.

Major scalp reconstruction, Patient PK

Thank you for the lovely job you did on me the other week. I am absolutely thrilled! Thanks for putting me at ease throughout.

Minor skin surgery, Patient GL

Thank you just doesn’t come close! Jacob looks absolutely amazing already and it’s thanks to you. You have changed his life in more ways than one. We really appreciate your knowledge, understanding and support. You are an inspiration. A million and one thank you’s again.

Craniofacial surgery, Patient JL

Thank you so much for fixing our daughter’s ears. They are looking so much better. We are very grateful for your expertise.

Prominent ear correction, Patient OR

Thank you so much to you and your whole team for changing my whole life! I’ve waited and wanted this operation for so long and now it’s done I cannot begin to tell you how much it’s changed my like. Thank you thank you thank you.

Abdominoplasty, Patient TS

I would like to thank you very much for my surgery that, for me, has been a complete success. It has given me loads of confidence and made such a difference to my life.

Breast reduction, Patient EW

I cannot thank you enough for the care and attention during my operation. You have truly changed my life and I am so grateful. I cannot be happier with the results. You and your team are inspirational. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything.

Abdominoplasty, Patient KS

It’s been 10 and a half years since you saved my life in April and May 2006 from necrotising fasciitis. I am always grateful to you.

Emergency surgery, Patient MS

Following my brow lift procedure, I am writing express my great thanks for the treatment and care you have provided. The eyebrow is a brilliant result. I am now so much more at ease with myself and appearance.

Brow lift procedure, Patient GT

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