Breast Augmentation
Increasing breast size and improving shape using implants or fat transfer.
Breast Reduction Surgery
Overview
Breast reduction removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin, and repositions the nipple, to produce a smaller and better-supported breast. It is one of the few procedures in this field with a well-documented functional benefit: it reliably relieves neck, shoulder and back pain, shoulder grooving and skin irritation caused by disproportionately large breasts.
Benefits of this treatment
Relieves physical symptoms
Reliably reduces neck, shoulder and back pain, shoulder grooving from bra straps, and skin irritation under the breasts.
Improves proportion and mobility
Smaller, better-supported breasts make exercise and daily activity more comfortable for many patients.
Long-lasting result
The reduction in tissue volume and improved shape are long-lasting, aside from normal ageing and weight change.
How the procedure is performed
-
1
20 minutes
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia for the full procedure.
-
2
15 minutes
Incision
An anchor-shaped or vertical incision pattern is used, chosen based on the amount of reduction needed.
-
3
2–3.5 hours
Tissue removal and reshaping
Excess breast tissue, fat and skin are removed, and the nipple-areola complex is repositioned higher on a smaller, reshaped breast mound.
-
4
30 minutes
Closure
Incisions are closed and a supportive surgical bra is fitted.
Recovery and aftercare
-
Days 1–3
Swelling and tightness
The chest feels tight and swollen; a supportive bra is worn continuously.
-
Weeks 1–2
Noticeable symptom relief begins
Many patients already notice reduced back and shoulder discomfort even during early healing.
-
Weeks 2–3
Back to work
Most patients return to non-strenuous work.
-
Months 3–6
Final shape and scar fading
Swelling fully resolves and scars continue to fade over 12–18 months.
Risks and side effects
Scarring
More extensive than a breast lift, given the greater volume of tissue removed, but planned to fade substantially over time.
Change in nipple sensation
Temporary or, rarely, permanent altered sensation can occur.
Difficulty breastfeeding
A real possibility depending on the technique used — discussed in advance if future breastfeeding matters to you.
Rarer complications
- Wound healing delay — More likely at the T-junction of the incision, and in smokers — smoking cessation is advised well before and after surgery.
- Asymmetry — Minor differences between breasts are common and usually settle during healing.
What it costs
What affects the price
Amount of tissue removed
A larger reduction requires more surgical time and is priced accordingly.
Incision pattern
More extensive anchor-pattern reductions cost more than smaller vertical-only reductions.
Frequently asked questions
For most patients with genuinely disproportionate breast size, yes — this is one of the best-documented functional benefits in cosmetic surgery.
This is planned individually at consultation based on your goals, body frame and the degree of symptom relief needed.
Many women can, particularly with techniques that preserve milk ducts, but this should be discussed at consultation if it matters to you.
Related
Treatments patients also consider
Tummy Tuck Surgery (Abdominoplasty)
Removal of excess abdominal skin and repair of separated abdominal muscles.
Dimple Creation Surgery
A short procedure that creates a natural-looking cheek or chin dimple.
Google Reviews
Rated by our patients
4.0
Next step
Considering Breast Reduction Surgery?
Book a consultation and get a straight answer on whether this is right for you, what it involves, and what it will cost. No obligation to proceed.
- A private, unhurried assessment with the surgeon
- An honest view of what is realistically achievable
- A written quote with no hidden costs
- Complete confidentiality