What to consider prior to a breast reduction

With Breast Surgery currently one of the most requested cosmetic surgical procedure, it's important that patients understand exactly what they can expect from it. Cosmetic Surgery is not a decision to be entered into lightly, so it's a wise idea to equip yourself with as much know-how as you can before agreeing to surgery.

1. You will need to do all the pre-tests before having the surgery - mamogram, weight and health checks.

2. You'll need to book at least two weeks off work. With Breast Reduction surgery, you'll need at least 14 days days off work to allow for full and speedy recovery.

3. You can view before you commit to surgery. While we don't show breast reduction outcomes on our website as we feel it is not they way we would like to be treated we do have images that we can show you in the privacy of our surgery to help you decide varying breast size before deciding which how much you would like to reduce yours by.

4. Your goals need to be realistic. We will work with you around what makes sense for you and what you need to achieve to have the result you want be it physical and emotional.

5. Breast Reduction procedures could affect your ability to breastfeed. Many women who have Breast Surgery choose not to breastfeed. Those who have an areola incision slightly risk damage to the minor ducts, impacting on your ability to breastfeed. If your surgery has involved incision in the crease of the breast or underarm then you should have no problems.

6. Smokers, obese patients or those with a family history of breast cancer pose risks. All of these factors increase the risk of complication both during and post-surgery. All medical issues will be evaluated before your consultant agrees to you having surgery.

7. Your breasts may grow back after a reduction. If you undergo the procedure before getting pregnant or your weight changes significantly after surgery, it is possible for your breasts to grow back.

8. You can have a reduction no matter what size your breasts are. If they feel uncomfortable to you, book a consultation to chat with our nurse or past patient.