Breast Reduction (Mammoplasty)

What is Breast Reduction Surgery? (Mammoplasty)

Breast reduction is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to reduce the size of the breasts by removing excess fat, tissue and skin.

What is the procedure used for?

Many women choose to undergo this procedure to seek relief from physical and emotional stress caused by overly large breasts, rather than for cosmetic reasons. Breast Reduction surgery can also be performed on men suffering from gynecomastia, or ‘man boobs’.

Who is the treatment suitable for?

Women who have large breasts and find them very uncomfortable are ideal candidates for breast reduction surgery. Many candidates suffer from pain in the back, shoulders or neck, and suffer irritation from bra straps digging into the skin. Women who are prevented from performing normal daily activities such as exercising due to large breasts, and those who are extremely self-conscious about their breasts are also good candidates for a breast reduction procedure. Talk to our plastic surgeon about the breast reduction options available to you.

What happens during the procedure?

The surgery usually requires the removal of excess fat and skin, the breast is then reshaped and the nipple is relocated higher up to match the new contours. Breast Reduction surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and usually requires one night's stay in the hospital. The scarring around the nipple and the crease of the breast will gradually soften but is permanent.

What are the side effects or risks?

Soon after surgery, you might experience pain, discomfort, swelling and discolouration for the first few weeks, which should settle down. All of the risks associated with general anaesthesia are also relevant here and will be discussed with you at your consutlations.

What results can I typically expect?

It is important to discuss with your surgeon your expectations for this procedure and what he is likely to be able to achieve.

For several months, there may be numbness in the skin on the breast and the nipples. 

Women with large breasts tend to have little nipple sensitivity. After the operation, the sensation in the area is greatly reduced but it should gradually return after a few months. Breastfeeding is usually possible after the operation, but it is common to have less milk, because of the damage to the ducts and glands. There may also be slight irregularities in the size and shape of the breasts and position of the nipples. However, these differences tend to be very minor and rarely need adjustment.

Before your procedure

You will meet with your surgeon and patient coordinator to assess the procedure's suitability for you and discuss the risks and potential complications. Once your surgeon has fully explained what you can expect from the operation, you can then make your decision about signing a patient consent form. Having a surgical procedure is an extremely personal choice and only you can make the decision to go ahead.  We encourage you to fully digest all the information we give you before deciding whether to coninue with the procedure. We are there at every step to answer your questions and offer advice - we want you to be happy with your results.

About 2-5 weeks prior to your surgery you will have a pre-operative assessment with one of our senior nurses or a doctor. They will go though your medical history, take your measurements  (height, weight, BMI) and carry out a blood and MRSA test to ensure you are fit for surgery.

On the day of your operation, your surgeon may draw on your breasts to confirm the exact size and positioning of any incisions and to guide him during your procedure.

It is important that you stop smoking at least four weeks before your surgery and for four weeks afterwards.

Aftercare

• Movement will be restricted for the first two weeks.
• Pain killers and anti‐inflammatory medication will be provided.
• The sutures (used to hold body tissues in place) are removed after 7‐10 days.
• After your treatment you will be required to wear a surgical bra for 4 to 6 weeks.