Mrs Claudia Harding-Mackean
Consultant breast and oncoplastic surgeon
MB ChB FRCS (Glas) FRCS (England), Oncoplastic Fellow Paris
I am a consultant breast surgeon seeing patients at Spire with both benign breast concerns and breast cancer. My approach is centred on providing supportive, expert care, with clear communication and a strong focus on achieving the best possible clinical and cosmetic outcomes.
I specialise in oncoplastic breast surgery, combining cancer surgery with reconstructive techniques to preserve or restore the natural shape, volume and symmetry of the breast wherever possible. This approach allows treatment of breast cancer while maintaining appearance and supporting long‑term confidence. I tailor each treatment plan carefully, taking time to discuss options and ensure patients feel fully informed and supported throughout their care.
I assess and manage the full range of breast symptoms requiring investigation, as well as performing surgery for both benign and malignant conditions. Alongside cancer surgery, I regularly undertake breast reconstruction and reduction procedures, integrating reconstructive techniques into treatment whenever appropriate.
In addition to my private practice at Spire, I work within the NHS as Clinical Lead for Breast and Plastic Surgery at the Countess of Chester Hospital, where I am also closely involved in clinical research and audit. I lead and contribute to clinical trials aimed at advancing breast cancer care and prevention, and I am actively involved in teaching medical students, trainee surgeons and allied healthcare professionals.
My priority is to provide expert, compassionate care that supports both physical recovery and long‑term wellbeing.
Outside of work, I enjoy travelling, exploring vineyards, choral singing and musical theatre.
Treatment information
Some of the principal treatments carried out by Mrs Claudia Harding-Mackean at Spire include:
Breast care and surgery
- Breast enlargement
- Breast lump investigation
- Breast lump removal
- Breast reconstruction following mastectomy
- Breast uplift (mastopexy)
- Male breast reduction surgery (gynaecomastia)
- Mastectomy
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy and lymph node removal
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Additional information
Qualification and professional memberships
MB ChB / Edinburgh / 1987
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
FRCS / Glasgow / 1999
Fellowship of the Royal Colleges of Surgeons
FRCS / London / 2000
Fellowship of the Royal Colleges of Surgeons
Professional memberships
Royal College of Surgeons of England
Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow
Association of Breast Surgeons
British Association of Endocrine and Thyroid Surgeons
General Medical Council
Medical and dental Defence Union Scotland
Research and publications
Research interests:
- Oestrogen regulated proteins in breast cancer
- Heat shock proteins in breast cancer
- All forms of breast reconstruction
I mentor surgical trainees to develop projects for research, publication and presentation.
Articles
Muscle-sparing latissimus doors flap breast reconstruction;less is more? Hamilton-Burke W, Redmond E, Seward J, Harding-Mackean C.
Infection complications of breast reconstruction using acellular dermal matrices and implants. Granger S, Hamilton Burke W, Seward J, Harding Mackean C.
Audit of mastectomy cases: Review to improving day case rates Cho Ng, C Harding-Mackean EJSO 44 (6) 91 2018. Use of oncoplastic techniques for breast conserving surgery. T Kiernan, C Mackean EJSO 40 (5) 662 2014.
National Oncoplastic Breast Reconstruction meeting (ORBS) Sept 2015.
Current NHS posts
Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Contact information
| Telephone | 0151 929 5408 |
| info@spirewirral.com | |
| Private secretary | Karen Lindsay |
| Private secretary telephone | 0151 929 5342 |
| Private secretary email | karen.lindsay@spirehealthcare.com |