Breast Reduction

Breast reduction surgery (reduction mammoplasty) is a procedure designed to reduce the size, weight, and volume of the breasts, while improving shape and lifting the nipple to a more youthful position.

It is commonly performed for women who experience:

  • Neck, back, or shoulder pain

  • Skin irritation or rashes beneath the breasts

  • Difficulty exercising or finding well-fitting clothes

  • Unwanted attention, self-consciousness, or emotional distress

In some cases, surgery may also be offered to correct breast asymmetry, or for men with gynaecomastia (enlarged male breast tissue).

Breast reduction typically involves:

  • Removal of excess breast tissue and skin

  • Lifting and reshaping of the remaining tissue

  • Repositioning the nipple to a higher, more natural location

  • Resizing the areola, if enlarged

Techniques vary depending on the amount of tissue being removed. Most patients will have:

  • A scar around the areola

  • A vertical scar from the areola to the breast fold

  • In larger reductions, a horizontal scar within the breast fold

In extremely large breasts, the nipple may need to be grafted into its new position. Mr. Eccles will tailor the technique to your anatomy and desired outcome.

  • The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic and typically lasts 2 to 3 hours.

    • Surgical drains are usually placed in each breast to reduce the risk of fluid or blood accumulation

    • Most patients stay in hospital overnight, although in selected cases, a day-case procedure may be possible

    • Drains are usually removed after 24–48 hours, once drainage has reduced

    • Expect bruising, swelling, and a feeling of tightness or heaviness in the breasts for the first 1–2 weeks

    • Discomfort is usually mild and managed with simple painkillers

    • Your breasts will be supported with a post-surgical bra, either provided by the hospital or one you bring with you

    • Light dressings will be applied and usually remain in place for around 7–10 days

    • Stitches are mostly dissolvable

    You can usually:

    • Return to work or light activities after 2–3 weeks

    • Resume gentle exercise after 3 weeks

    • Avoid strenuous activity, lifting, and upper body workouts for 6 weeks

    You may notice temporary changes in nipple sensation, which usually improve over time. Full recovery may take several weeks, and final breast shape continues to settle over 3–6 months.

  • As with all surgical procedures, breast reduction carries potential risks:

    • Scarring: All techniques leave scars, typically around the areola, vertically to the fold, and sometimes within the fold

    • Delayed wound healing or wound breakdown, especially in larger reductions

    • Changes in nipple sensation, often temporary but occasionally permanent

    • Inability to breastfeed: Some patients retain this ability, but it may be reduced or lost

    • Fat necrosis (firm areas or lumps due to fat tissue loss), which usually softens over time

    • Minor asymmetry in size, shape, or nipple position

    • Bleeding or haematoma, rarely requiring return to theatre

    • Infection, which can usually be treated with antibiotics

    All risks will be thoroughly discussed during your consultation with Mr. Eccles, including how they apply to your individual case.

    • The results of breast reduction surgery are usually long-lasting

    • However, hormonal changes, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight gain, or ageing may influence future breast size and shape

    • Scars continue to fade over time, and breast shape will gradually settle over several months

    Mr. Eccles will provide guidance on bra support, scar care, and long-term follow-up, and will help you choose a target breast size that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.

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