Breast Reduction | Types | Cost | Risks | Recovery
Breast reduction surgery will decrease the size of the breasts and improve your confidence and quality of life.
At the heart of it, if you are suffering from back pain, have large, sagging heavy breasts, or poor posture, due to large breasts, then a breast reduction could be what you need to improve you quality of life and confidence.
This life-changing surgery will make the breasts smaller and reduce their weight. The procedure can also reshape and lift the breasts, so they are firmer and more pert.
Breast Reduction
How much does it cost and is it right for me?
Mr Fitton will evaluate your breast volume and position, your skin elasticity, the size and position of the areola, and your body shape. He will plan your surgery to ensure the breast looks natural, in proportion, and correctly placed on your chest.
Resize & Reshape your breast
Every patient is different which is why Mr Fitton takes the time to discuss the most appropriate surgery and achievable results with you.
Why undergo a breast reduction?
Breast reduction surgery is meant for women who have large breasts and want to resolve issues such as:
- Chronic back, neck and shoulder pain that requires pain medication
- Chronic rash or skin irritation under the breasts
- Nerve pain
- Restricted activity
- Poor self-image related to large breasts
- Difficulty fitting into bras and clothing
- Bad posture due to large breasts
Following breast reduction surgery sensation to the nipple area diminishes and this may be permanent.
How long does breast reduction surgery take?
The surgery for a breast reduction will take around 2-hours. The surgeon usually:
- Makes an incision around the areola and down each breast
- Removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin to reduce the size of each breast
- Reshapes the breast and repositions the nipple and areola
The nipple and areola:
- Usually remain attached to the breast
- Might need to be removed and then reattached at a higher position as a skin graft if your breasts are very large
How long is the recovery time for a breast reduction procedure?
It can take 2 to 6 weeks to fully recover from breast reduction surgery. You may need to take 2 to 3 weeks off work, and need help with housework, childcare and shopping. You should not drive until it’s no longer painful to wear a seatbelt.
When you come around from the anaesthetic you will have dressing over the wounds and drainage tube in each breast.
Once you wake up your supporting bra will be fitted by the nursing staff. The drains are usually removed a day or so after the operation at which time you are normally discharged.
You should wear your bra all the time to support your new breasts until you are reviewed at about 10 days.
Patients undergoing this operation do not usually complain of much pain. However, pain killing tablets are prescribed to control any discomfort experienced.
Although you’ll see results immediately, remember that it can take months for the swelling to completely go down and the surgical scars to fade. The final result is generally permanent — although breast shape and size can change due to factors such as ageing and weight gain or loss.
How much does breast reduction surgery cost?
The investment for breast enlargement surgery is approximately £5,597- £8,292. This includes your surgeon, the procedure and aftercare.
Actual costs vary depending on the provider hospital you choose to have your surgery with.
What are the the risks of breast reduction surgery?
Severe complications such as nipple necrosis, infection and fat necrosis are rare but more likely in patients who smoke or who suffer certain diseases such as diabetes.
In these situations, you will be advised to stop smoking at least 6 weeks prior to surgery and also perhaps make sure that your diabetes is well controlled.
Whilst surgery aims to produce a symmetrical and even result, on occasion some degree of asymmetry or irregularity can occur. Whilst it is hoped that the surgical scars will heal to produce a fine line, in some patients scars can stretch or become very red (hypertrophic) and thick. The use of a moisturising cream will help scar maturation.
Summary
Undergoing a breast reduction is a big decision. To ensure a smooth recovery, follow Mr Fittons instructions. Wear your recovery bra, and care for your incision sites as directed.
To find out more about having a treatment, book your no obligation consultation. You will meet with Antony Fitton and receive expert advice tailored to your needs.
Please call us on 07494 250277 or book your consultation using our online form.
About your Plastic Surgeon: Mr Antony Fitton
MB, BS(hons)., MD., FRCS(eng)., FRCS(plast).
Mr Antony R Fitton qualified at the Royal London Hospital in 1989 with distinction in Surgery. He holds a MB, BS(hons)., MD., FRCS(eng). and FRCS(plast). (Fellowship at the Royal College of Surgeons).
He is a member of BAPRAS (British Association for Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons), BAAPS (British Association for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons), BSSH (British Society for Surgery of the Hand).
Mr Fitton has received the Paton & Masser Award and the CM Matthews Award from the Royal College of Surgeons of England or his research in nerve injury.
Mr Fitton is licensed as Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon by the GMC.
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