If you suffer physical discomfort, bad posture or embarrassment because your breasts are too large, a breast reduction may help. This procedure, also known as reduction mammoplasty, aims to relieve discomfort like back and neck pain, grooves in the shoulders from bra straps and rashes under the breasts. It also helps many women feel much happier and less self-conscious about the way they look.
About the breast reduction procedure
Reduction mammoplasty reduces the size of your breasts by removing some of your breast tissue. There are various ways to do this, but typically the excess breast tissue is removed through incisions on the lower part of the breasts and the nipples are moved to suit the new shape. The skin is re-shaped and the cuts are closed with stitches.
The operation takes two hours or more and is performed under general anaesthetic, which means you will be asleep during the procedure. You will stay in hospital for at least one night after your operation and will need to plan time off work so that you can recover at home. You will also need to wear a special supportive bra in the first few weeks after surgery.
A breast reduction will help your body to look more in proportion. Your breasts will not grow back, but they may increase in size if you put on weight or become pregnant.
As with any cosmetic procedure, it is important that you review your expectations thoroughly before you decide to proceed. Your surgeon will explain the results you can expect after breast reduction surgery, and will discuss the associated risks and alternatives to the procedure before going ahead.
With Spire Healthcare you will see a consultant of your choice at a time that suits you. You will be treated in a premium private hospital, not a clinic, and you can be assured of our commitment to healthcare standards and infection control excellence.