Breast Reduction

Large breasts can result in a number of functional and psychological problems. They can result in pain in the back, neck and shoulders. Cause bras to dig in to the skin, skin rashes under the breast. Large breasts can also make exercising very difficult and result in people being very self conscious and avoiding certain types of clothing and social situations.

About the surgery

Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue from below the nipple and the lower parts of the breast. The nipple is raised to a higher position and the breast shaped to a smaller more youthful and attractive shape. Breast reduction surgery can have a significant impact on both physical and psychological well being and consistently has the highest patient satisfaction rates of all plastic surgery operations performed.

During your consultation, Mr West will listen to your wishes and concerns. He will perform an examination which includes taking a number of measurements of your breasts and chest wall. He will then discuss breast reduction surgery, including the possible benefits, risks and any suitbale alternatives.

Indication

Patients with large breasts that are causing physical and / or psychological symptoms

Anesthetic

General

Downtime

2 weeks

Results

Lifting, tightening of breast tissue a reduction in volume to improve both size and shape

Anatomy

Scars are placed around and below the nipple that allow the nipple to be lifted and the breast tissue reduced and reshaped to smaller natural size

Duration

3 hours

Exercise

4 – 6 weeks

Price

from £8995

WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE DAY

The team will welcome you to the clinic and get you settled and relaxed. We will go through the procedure and discuss the process and sign the consent form. You will meet the consultant anaesthetist who will discuss this aspect of the operation with you. Mr West will draw markings on your chest to plan procedure and the incisions. Photographs will be taken before heading to theatre.

Once in theatre and asleep, Mr West will remove excess breast tissue and shape the breasts to their new desired size. The incisions are closed with absorbable surtures and covered with steristrips and a small dressings. The scars are usually around the nipple, below the nipple to the breast crease and along the breast crease (an anchor shape). Mr West does not use drains. A support garment is put on to provide comfort and support as the wounds heal.

Following surgery you will be transferred to the recovery area and will be looked after by our dedicated recovery team. We will ensure all aftercare is explained and follow up appointments are arranged before letting you leave.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between breast reduction and breast lift?

In breast reduction, changes to both the shape and size of the breast is achieved. Breasts are made smaller and lifted to a more youthful position. During a breast lift, there is no reduction in size, the volume is maintained and lifted to improve the shape and position of the breast.

Am I a good candidate for breast reduction?

If your breasts are large and you feel your nipples are too low then you may be a suitable candidate. In addition if your breasts are heavy and cuase pain in your neck, back and shoulders then this also could be improved by breast reduction.

What are the follow up or aftercare procedures?

Initial review and wound check is usually 1-2 weeks after surgery. Further review appointment is usually made 4-6 weeks after surgery.

When can I start playing sports again?

Light activity is ok after 2 weeks, and it is important to keep your shoulders moving. Vigorous exercise should be avoided for at least 4 weeks.

Will my breasts grow again?

If your weight remains stable, then your breast size should also remain stable. Some people experience change in the size of their breasts during pregnancy and during the menopause.

Will breast reduction change the sensation to my nipple?

It is common to experience some changes in sensation, these are often temporary and improve with time although can be permanent. This can be reduced sensation, increased sensation and in very rare cases complete loss of sensation.

When can I shower?

Your dressings are shower proof and therefore it is fine to shower the day after surgery. Mr West recommends dabbing your dressings dry with a towel after your shower. Baths should be avoided until the dressings have been removed.

Related Treatments

Mastopexy

Breast lift (mastopexy) is a surgical procedure that reshapes and lifts sagging breasts by tightening skin and repositioning the nipple. It does not increase volume but can create a fuller appearance; implants or fat grafting can be added for more volume.

Mastopexy with implants

Liposuction

Liposuction removes stubborn fat deposits through suction, helping to contour and reshape the body. It can be done alone or combined with other procedures, sometimes even while the patient is awake for small areas.

Male chest reduction

Male chest reduction treats gynaecomastia (male breast enlargement) to improve chest appearance and self-esteem. Depending on severity, treatment may involve liposuction, gland removal, and skin tightening, with scarring tailored to the individual case.

Related Conditions

Large / heavy breasts

Droopy / saggy / empty breasts

Asymmetry / uneven breasts

Gynaecomastia / male breast / moob

Client Results

Testimonials

“After years of being self conscious about my eyes, i decided to have my upper blepharoplasty with Chris and the results are better than I had ever anticipated. The service I received before during and after the operation is unmatched. Dr west is a patient, calming and a highly skilled surgeon. If you’re thinking of going for it. Do it, you won’t regret it! Thank you again.”

“I recently had upper eyelid surgery ( blepharoplasty ) with Mr Christopher West. Very experienced surgeon so I felt straight away I’m in a good hands. I had barely any bruising or swelling and the scars are so neat. Overall the results exceeded my expectations which I’m extremely grateful for! 10/10 highly recommended! Thank you.”

“I found Dr Christopher West from 3 people's recommendation and came all the way from London. The upper blepharoplasty procedure was completely painless. I had a small amount of post op bruising, but could carry on with life almost immediately after. The recovery time was around one week. Once my sutures were removed the result was immediately evident. I am extremely pleased with the results of my upper blepharoplasty, and cannot hesitate to praise the skills of Dr Christopher West. Fantastic results. I highly recommend Mr Christopher West”

“I had been researching my options for surgery for a couple of years, I'd had lots of consultations with London based surgeons, I opted for Mr West as not only had I seen his work first hand on a few friends, I liked his approach to surgery, he is very honest and if he feels you don't need something or wouldn't benefit from it he will tell you straight, he's very good at managing your expectations. After a couple of consultations I booked in with him, for an upper blepharoplasty. Mr West saw me before surgery to go over everything, he has a very calming and kind nature which definitely helps before you are about to go under the knife, I am very happy with my results, Chris is very skilled surgeon, his stitches and incisions are immaculate, and I highly recommend him to anyone who is considering surgery.”