What is a Breast Reduction?
This is a surgical technique that uses a cosmetic type of incision to both reduce the breast size and to reshape the breast externally and internally. When I do this surgery I always perform an uplift as well to restore the nipple position to an optimum level on the new breasts. This before and after photo is a good recent example of my work. The post operative photos were taken just 2-months after the reduction.
Before and After Breast Reduction
The scar pattern is called a “wise-pattern” and it classically creates a scar around the nipple-areola (which almost invariable should be reduced in diameter), vertically down the lower breast, and curved across the infra-mammary line (the curved line under the breasts where the underwriting of the bra lies). The scars mature as the underlying suture material is reabsorbed. I use internal sutures only, and these dissolve slowly. After 6-months the suture material has gone and the scar fades to a pale line. Usually by 12-18 months the scar has softened and is fully mature. I recommend a specific scar treatment to use and this has helped greatly.
How Small Can The Breasts Be Reduced?
I recommend reducing the breasts back in proportion to the patient’s frame. It is a great risk to try to reduce too small if the starting point is very big, as there is an increasing risk of complications from removing too much tissue from the piece of deeper breast that provides the blood supply to the nipple. For example, the nipple and central tissue could be deprived of a sufficient blood supply if the surgery does not follow certain principles resulting in necrosis. This is where the nipple would be lost.
How Do I Know How My Breasts Might Look After Breast Reduction?
I evaluate my patients proportions carefully and take into account the dimensions of the breast and body and also the tissue characteristics in planning the surgery. I can also take a 3D image in clinic at one of the detailed planning sessions. This is Crisalix 3D, one of the most advanced tools to help patients see a simulation of a before and after to give them an idea what we are aiming for. My patients find this very useful.
Will My Breasts Grow Back After Breast Reduction?
The answer to this is almost invariably no, except under certain circumstances. A very young woman having breast reduction can still have plenty of glandular tissue to mature further in the future, such as hormonal stimulation, pregnancy related change and age related changes, that further growth may occur. The mature breast on the other hand is only likely to gain additional bulk again after breast reduction with significant weight change. So on the whole, breast reduction results in a fairly stable size as long as you maintain a stable body composition and don’t have hormonal changes.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From The Surgery?
I recommend patients take 2-weeks off work and to avoid heavy lifting and sports for 6-weeks. We like to see you for a dressing change at the end of the first and second week and to take the dressings off at the end of the third week. If tissue that has been removed has been sent for histology, that result is usually available at that visit. Before returning to swimming and using cross trainers in the gym you should wait for soreness to go and usually this takes 6-weeks. I have some information relating to the post-operative period on my web site too.
Is It Painful Having A Breast Reduction?
I find that 90% of my patients find it not to be painful after the first week, but describe the breasts as tender for a few weeks further only. They are usually quite happy taking just paracetamol and ibuprofen for post-operative pain relief. A small proportion get a dull ache that lingers for longer and this is almost certainly due to deeper wound healing and the little sensory nerves that run in to the outer breast. These usually always resolved with time.
When Can I get Fitted For My New Bras?
I recommend waiting until after the 6-week point and then buying your new bras. You will obviously look slimmer too, and that is a very common finding that my patients say friends and family point out. You will initially be in a post-operative tubigrip that is put on in theatre and worn continuously for the first few weeks. Then you can use a post-operative bra until you are ready for bra shopping again. Here is a recent post with tips on getting a post-operative sports bra.
How Do I Book For Surgery, Find Out More, and What Is A Guideline Cost?
It is best to use the contact form on my web site by clicking here.
Alternatively you may email my secretary directly: lisa.harris@nuffieldhealth.com
Breast reduction prices vary according to a few different factors and is usually between £6800 and £8200
You can read more about breast reduction surgery on my web site, and see more examples of before and after photos here.
And finally, do you want to find out more about me, or what other patients think about their surgery under my care? Please visit the I Want Great Care Web Site where numerous testimonials have been left by previous patients.
