Breast Reduction

 

Breast reduction involves removal of excess tissue from large breasts while repositioning the nipples and reshaping the breast.

Large breasts are not always desirable and indeed can be a source of great discomfort for some women.  Neck pain, shoulder pain and back ache are sometimes attributed to large breasts.  In carefully selected patients breast reduction is a satisfying procedure, providing relief from physical symptoms and may enhance self-esteem.  It is important to realise that this is a major surgical procedure which should only be undertaken after careful consideration.

Some of the most highly trained and experienced breast cosmetic Plastic Surgeons in Liverpool provide their services at Sthetix clinic in the North West.  Women with large breasts often suffer physical and emotional problems due to their size.  Expertly carried out breast reduction can be a life transforming experience.  All Sthetix surgeons work in the NHS providing breast reconstruction for cancer patients and carry out the full range of cosmetic breast surgery on a regular basis.

 

Before your surgery:

There is no substitute for a one to one consultation with the Plastic surgeon who will carry out your surgery.  Frank and detailed discussion will take place and you will be given time (cooling off period) to consider this information before you are booked for surgery. This cooling off period is always provided by Sthetix clinic and we will not ask you to sign a contract nor will we take a non-refundable deposit.  We do not believe sales people can provide the necessary advice to women seeking surgery and therefore only provide direct consultations with Consultant plastic surgeons. 

 

 

Prior to surgery you will be asked to:

Stop smoking. Smoking introduces toxins into the blood which increase the risk of healing problems, loss of nipple and skin and anaesthetic complications. It is essential that smokers stop well before the surgery date and do not start again until wounds have completely healed.

 

• Discontinue oral contraceptive pills (use alternative methods)/ HRT
• Not to take aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs as they increase the risk of bleeding
• Not to take off the shelves herbal medicines or nutrition supplements.

 

You will be required to attend a medical examination (pre-operative assessment) clinic where certain tests may be carried out to ensure your safety during anaesthesia and surgery.

 

 

The Operation:

The surgery is carried out in one of our partner hospitals. These are all CQC regulated and well equipped hospitals providing the highest level of care.
The operation is performed under general anaesthetic (you are asleep) and takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. The surgeon removes the excess fat, skin and tissue from the breast.  The incision lines are very discreet; there will be an anchor shaped scar running around the areola, down to and along the sub mammary fold (crease line under the breast). Tubes to drain any excess fluids may be left in place and are removed before you go home. Hospital stay is usually 2 nights after this surgery.
Smokers must stop smoking 6 weeks before and 6 weeks after surgery - smoking considerably increase the risks of complications.

 

 

Recovery:

 

The rate of recovery varies from person to person. While you may feel discomfort during the first few days after surgery, most women find they rapidly return to normal activities. However, it is important to remember to take it easy in the first couple of weeks following the surgery.
Return to work: 2 to 3 weeks off work is recommended

Driving:

 

We recommend that you don’t drive for 2 weeks after this procedure. Caution is recommended when resuming your usual driving activities.

Exercise:

 

Mild activity like short gentle walks should be undertaken as soon as you feel capable. Vigorous exercise should be avoided in the early weeks after the surgery.

 

Risks

 

All surgical procedures carry certain risks and there are limitations of what can be achieved.  These will have been discussed prior to surgery with the surgeon as this is the best way to gain a clear insight into the procedure and allow you to make an informed decision about your surgery. The risks include infection, haematoma (collection of blood), delayed healing, loss of sensation, asymmetry, loss of skin or nipple areola, and DVT and PE. Breast shape and size can be altered and improved with this procedure but, after surgery the shape, size and position of the breast will continue to change due to effects of gravity, weight changes and ageing changes.

After care:

 

Your wellbeing is our first priority.  To monitor your progress we will arrange appointments at appropriate intervals for follow-up examinations with your surgeon.  Should you need our help or advice, you also have access to our clinic and the hospital where you had your surgery. Your surgeon will see you 6 weeks after the surgery to ensure complete recovery. You will be seen as many times as needed until you are fully recovered. In the unlikely event of a complication which is directly related to your surgery, we will provide or arrange treatment at no extra cost.
All your aftercare is fully included in the cost of surgery.