Your Breast Reduction questions answered

What is a Breast Reduction procedure?

A breast reduction is a common procedure for women who want to reduce the weight of their breasts, ease discomfort and achieve a breast size proportionate to their body. The specialist surgeon reshapes the breasts by removing fat, breast tissue and excess skin (from one or both breasts) and repositions the nipple to create a more uplifted, symmetrical shape. 

Why might someone consider Breast Reduction surgery?

Many women are troubled by back and shoulder pain as a result of their large breasts and feel self-conscious about their size. Whilst adding to a patient’s general comfort and boosting self-esteem, a breast reduction can create a more uplifted, firmer appearance.  Having breast reduction surgery can help to: 

• Improve the shape and look of the breasts 

• Reduce associated back and neck pain caused by larger breasts 

• Reduce bra discomfort and bra strap irritation 

• Improve confidence  

• Make exercising easier and reduce discomfort 

• Improve how your clothes fit and increase your wardrobe options e.g. swimwear, strappy tops, vests etc

How much does a Breast Reduction cost? 

The cost of a breast reduction with one of our expert MYA surgeons starts from £7,910. It is important to note that prices may vary and procedure costs are tailored to individual requirements. You will receive a guide price during your initial eConsult and a fixed price following your surgeon consultation. 

How long does a Breast Reduction procedure take? 

A breast reduction is performed under general anaesthetic and the procedure involves complex surgical techniques which typically takes between 2-3 hours.   

Is a Breast Reduction painful? 

The majority of patients feel some pain or discomfort following surgery which can last for 7-21 days. The amount of pain or discomfort you may experience will depend upon several factors including the type of procedure, the incision, and your pain threshold. Pain relief will be prescribed to ease discomfort following the procedure.  

What can I expect after Breast Reduction surgery? 

Patients will be given procedural information which includes what to expect after a breast reduction. It is important that patients follow all instructions provided to them by their surgeon and clinical team and it is essential that they attend their post-op aftercare appointments at their local MYA clinical hub. 

It typically takes up to 6 weeks to heal from a breast reduction procedure, but it can take up to a year for scars to fully fade and to see the final result. Patients should expect mild discomfort, bruising and swelling following a breast reduction, pain should subside after 7-24 days and pain relief will be prescribed to ease discomfort.

Following a breast reduction procedure, patients can expect to take between 1-2 weeks off work. If your job is more physically demanding, you may be required to take off longer for recovery. Patients should be mobile from day 1 but are advised to refrain from any heavy lifting and exercise for up to 6 weeks.  

What are the requirements for a Breast Reduction?

Prior to undergoing any type of surgery, screening procedures will be undertaken to assess a patient’s suitability for surgery. Patient’s must also attend a consultation with one of our specialist surgeons. At this consultation the surgeon will carry out a physical assessment and make medical recommendations regarding the patient’s suitability for the procedure, and discuss the treatment plan options. To qualify for a breast reduction procedure a patient’s BMI must be over 16 and under 34 and their medical history must be approved by MYA to ensure they are fit for surgery.

Is it best to lose weight before a Breast Reduction?

To have a breast reduction procedure with MYA, a patient must have a healthy BMI. Surgeons recommend that a patient is at their ideal weight before having a procedure, as sudden fluctuations in weight following a breast reduction could affect their final aesthetic result. 

What can I expect at a Breast Reduction consultation? 

Patients will have an initial eConsult with one of our dedicated eConsult advisors to discuss their reasons for wanting a breast reduction procedure and the outcome they are hoping to achieve. Patients will have the opportunity to ask questions, discuss the surgery process and look at before and after photos.  

Patients will then have the opportunity to meet their chosen MYA surgeon at one of our clinical hubs. The surgeon will discuss the patient’s expectations and outline any risks and limitations. This consultation will involve a physical examination and the taking of measurements and pre-operative photos.  

This is a great opportunity for patients to get to know their surgeon and ask any questions. It is important that patients feel comfortable and confident with the surgeon that they move forward with. 

How big do your boobs need to be to get a Breast Reduction?

A patient would typically consider a breast reduction procedure if their breasts were affecting their self-confidence or they were troubled by discomfort and back pain as a result of their large breasts. There is no specific bra size or measurement that a patient’s breasts need to be to be considered for a breast reduction. The MYA surgeon will discuss individual requirements and the best treatment plan for the patient during the consultation.   

How much weight will I lose after a Breast Reduction? 

A breast reduction procedure is not a form of weight loss surgery; however, patients may find exercise and physical activity easier following breast reduction surgery due to a reduction in the weight and size of their breasts. 

Does a Breast Reduction make you look thinner? 

A reduction to the size and shape of your breasts can create the illusion of a slimmer frame.