Mr Christopher West, plastic surgeon Book a consultation
Mr Christopher West in blue scrubs and a red theatre cap in an operating theatre.

Breast reduction

Removes excess breast tissue and raises the nipple for a smaller breast.

Book a consultation Questions and answers

The operation

Large breasts can result in a number of functional and psychological problems. They can result in pain in the back, neck and shoulders. They can cause bras to dig into the skin and cause 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.

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 wellbeing and has consistently high patient satisfaction rates.

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 suitable alternatives.

In theatre
3 hours
Anaesthetic
General
Downtime
2 weeks
Exercise
4 to 6 weeks
Price
From £8,995
Suited to
Patients with large breasts that are causing physical symptoms, psychological symptoms or both.
How it works
Scars are placed around and below the nipple, which allow the nipple to be lifted and the breast tissue reduced and reshaped to a smaller, natural size.
The result
Lifting and tightening of the breast tissue with a reduction in volume, to improve both size and shape.
The clinic lounge at Coppergate, sofas and a glass table under soft lighting.

Step by step

From the first consultation to your recovery.

  1. Your consultation

    Book a consultation online or call the team. Consultations are in York and Leeds, with virtual consultations for patients travelling from further afield.

  2. The day of surgery

    You will meet the consultant anaesthetist, who will discuss the anaesthetic with you.

    Mr West will draw markings on your chest to plan the procedure and the incisions. 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 sutures and covered with Steri-Strips (thin plasters) and 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.

  3. Recovery

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

What patients say

Reviews from Mr West's Google profile, published as written.

Read every review on Google

Frequently asked questions

The questions patients ask most often. Anything specific to one patient is covered at the consultation.

What is the difference between breast reduction and breast lift?

In breast reduction, changes to both the shape and size of the breast are 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 cause pain in your neck, back and shoulders then this also could be improved by breast reduction.

What are the follow-up or aftercare procedures?

The initial review and wound check is usually 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. A further review appointment is usually made 4 to 6 weeks after surgery.

When can I start playing sports again?

Light activity is fine 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 they 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 showerproof 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.

Book a consultation

A consultation with Mr West covers the anatomy, what surgery can realistically achieve and the risks involved. A fixed written quote follows afterwards.

Surgery is only planned after this assessment, with time to reflect before any decision. Virtual consultations are available for patients travelling from further afield.

Book a consultation
A patient is welcomed at the reception desk of the Coppergate Clinic in York.