Breast reduction is a surgical procedure to make the breasts smaller. It is often considered a reconstructive procedure and it is sometimes possible to have this treatment on the NHS, although with changes to the health service many women now seek this treatment privately.

Quick guide

• Anaesthetic: general anaesthetic
• Time of intervention: about 3 hours
• Time in hospital: 0-1 night
• Problems: usually controlled with medication
• Swelling: 2-4 weeks
• Recuperation: 10-21 days
• Final result: about 6 months

Am I suitable for breast reduction surgery?

Mammary hypertrophy – or disproportionately large breasts – can be a disabling physical condition, causing back ache, neck ache and skin irritation, as well as drawing unwanted attention from the opposite sex.

In a society where large breasts are often equated with attractiveness, these problems are often made light of, but overly large breasts can cause real pain and discomfort.

Breast reduction surgery can make a significant difference; by reducing the size of the breasts, the load to be borne by the back and shoulders is lightened significantly.

What can I expect from breast reduction surgery?

Breast reduction surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic. There are many different techniques that Dr Amar can use to reduce the size of the breasts, and he will discuss this with you at your London breast reduction consultation, to decide which is the best technique for you.

Whichever technique is used for your breast reduction procedure, skin and fat will be removed from the breast, and your nipple may be repositioned, depending on the size and shape of your breasts. All techniques will result in a small scar around the areola.

Breast reduction can also be performed to correct breast asymmetry. Again, this can be discussed in detail with Dr Amar at your consultation.

Are there any possible complications associated with breast reduction surgery?

A breast reduction procedure is considered more extensive than breast augmentation or breast lifts, and you might have suction tubes in your chest area for one to two days post surgery to help reduce swelling, pain and blood clots.

Most possible complications associated with your London breast reduction procedure can be easily managed using the medication prescribed by Dr Amar, but you may find that your breasts are sore for around two weeks following surgery, and they may become painful again the first time you menstruate after your operation.

You may experience reduced sensation in the nipples following breast reduction surgery – this is usually a temporary situation, but in rare cases can be permanent.

It is important to keep strenuous physical activity to an absolute minimum during the first few weeks after surgery and avoid pressure on the breasts for the first four weeks. Dr Amar will see you during the months following surgery to check on your progress, and you can call the surgeon at any time, should you have any concerns.

It is important to remember that scars from breast reduction surgery are visible and permanent, although Dr Amar will do everything in his power to ensure that they are minimal. Relief from the physical strain associated with large breasts should be immediate post procedure, although it may take several months for your breasts to achieve their final shape, and full healing can take a year or more.

For more information on London breast reduction surgery or any of the cosmetic surgery procedures we offer at London FAMI Clinic, call 0800 612 7475 to book a consultation.