Breast Reduction Surgery (Mammoplasty)

What is breast reduction surgery?

Breast reduction, or mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure to permanently reduce the size of the breasts. It is particularly suitable if you suffer from:

• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Postural problems
• Recurrent infections in the fold under your breasts

At the same time as the procedure is performed, the areola (the dark area surrounding your nipple) can also be reduced in size and repositioned to give a more uplifted look to the breasts. If large breasts cause you distress, leave you feeling self-conscious or your breasts are uneven in size, then this procedure could be suitable for you.

What can’t it do?

Breast reduction surgery cannot reduce excess weight from areas other than your breasts, such as torso or waist. See liposuction for addressing this.

What does breast reduction involve?

Your surgeon will make a cut in your breasts; normally a curved line, following the contour from the areola down to the crease beneath your breast. The excess fat and glandular tissue will then be carefully removed, along with some of your skin. The amount of fat, tissue and skin removed will depend on the final breast size that you have agreed with your surgeon. The areola and nipple are then repositioned and the skin is drawn into and around the areola to define your new shape.

You may need liposuction below your armpit to withdraw fat from the breast area. You will wake up with a surgical bra on and may have small surgical drains inserted. The operation will take between 2 and 3 hours to complete and you will require a general anaesthetic and a one or two night stay in hospital.

If you would like to know more about the procedure, including breast reduction cost, please make sure to watch our videos and visit our other information pages.

Your recovery

You will need to wear a special bra for several weeks following your operation. This helps to support your new smaller breasts as they heal. Most people do not find breast reduction to be particularly painful, though as with any surgery, there may be a short period of mild discomfort immediately after undergoing the procedure. This can normally be controlled very effectively with medication such as paracetamol. You should take 1-2 weeks off work following your operation. You should allow 6 to 8 weeks to recover.

Your results

A breast reduction operation is considered a permanent solution to reduce the size and weight of overly large, heavy breasts. You should remember, however, if you put on weight in the future, your breasts are likely to increase in size again.