Breast Reduction Surgery

What is a Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction surgery is performed to reduce the size of breasts, thus relieving the physical symptoms of backache, shoulder pain from bra straps and intertrigo (rash underneath the breasts).

Large breasts can make a woman or a teenage girl feel extremely self-conscious. Breast reduction surgery aims to make the breasts smaller, more shapely and in better proportion to the rest of the body.

What does the operation involve?
The operation is usually performed under general anaesthesia and often requires an overnight stay in hospital.

Excess breast tissue is removed and the nipples repositioned. The operation results in scars around the nipple-areola, vertically downwards on the breast and horizontally in the crease underneath the breast. Drainage tubes are frequently used and are removed within a short period of time.

Is it right for me?
Breast Reduction surgery will be of benefit if you have large breasts that cause you to feel embarrassed and suffer physical discomfort. Breast reduction will reduce the size of your breasts to a more manageable size.

Breast Reduction surgery is not normally performed until the breasts are fully developed, (usually after the age of 16). The surgery should be postponed for at least one year following pregnancy and breast feeding.

What are the risks and long term implications?
Complications are RARE, but you should be aware of them so that you can make an informed decision.

Every operation carries with it the risk of bleeding, infection and delayed healing, all of which may require urgent or early reoperation. In addition, there are risks that are specific to breast reduction surgery. There may be loss of part or all of the nipples, though this is rare. There may be loss of nipple sensitivity. There may be asymmetry or areas that require further ‘touch-up’ or revision procedures at a later stage. Furthermore, while every effort is made to achieve your desired bra cup size, this cannot be guaranteed.

Scars may be red and lumpy initially, but eventually soften and fade with time. They may also, however, stretch and widen with time. Please be aware that if you have dark skin, freckly skin or red hair, there is a greater risk of persistent lumpiness and hypersensitivity in the scars, so-called hypertrophic or keloid scarring.

Breast reduction surgery may also affect your ability to breastfeed. Moreover, future pregnancies may affect the size and shape of your breasts, and further surgery may again be required.

What should I expect following surgery?
Following surgery, you may find your breasts swollen, bruised and uncomfortable. The pain is usually not severe and oral painkillers, prescribed following your surgery, will control any discomfort you have. The recovery period may last between 2 to 4 weeks. You will be able to move around at home in the first week, venture out in the second week, and gradually adopt your normal routine again in the third and fourth weeks.

During the recovery period it is necessary to refrain from heavy lifting (including small children) and reaching up to high shelves, as well as driving until you are confident you can perform all necessary manoeuvres safely.  You are required to wear a soft, stretchy sports bra with no underwiring for the full recovery period. 

Our practice nurse will keep in close contact with you whilst you recover at home. Generally, you will have a follow up appointment at the clinic at one week and one month postoperatively. However, if there are any problems or concerns, you will be seen more frequently than this,or as often as you wish. In the longer term, you are welcome to see Mr Ng for a check up at any time. All follow up appointments are free of charge whether they be at 2 months or 2 years post operatively.