Breast Reduction

What is Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty)?

Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin to create smaller, lighter and more proportionate breasts. Many women choose this procedure to relieve physical discomfort or improve confidence in their shape. The aim is to achieve a balanced, natural result that feels easier to live with day-to-day.


Why Choose Breast Reduction?

Large or heavy breasts can lead to back or shoulder pain, skin irritation, difficulty finding supportive bras, and limitations with exercise. Breast reduction can help ease these symptoms, improve posture and allow you to move more comfortably. Many women also choose it for aesthetic reasons, feeling more confident with a breast size that suits their frame.


How the Procedure Works

The operation is performed under general anaesthetic. An incision is made around the areola, down the breast and into the natural crease. Excess breast tissue and skin are removed, the breast is reshaped, and the nipple is repositioned to a higher, more natural height. Surgery usually takes 2–3 hours, and most patients go home the same day or after an overnight stay.

What to Expect After Surgery

Swelling, bruising and discomfort are common in the first few days. A supportive surgical bra is worn day and night for several weeks to help healing and maintain the new breast shape. Light daily activities can often resume within 1–2 weeks, while strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for 4–6 weeks. Results continue to improve as the swelling settles.

Important Considerations & Long-Term Information

Breast reduction offers long-lasting relief, but it is still major surgery and carries risks such as changes in breast or nipple sensation, scarring, and potential difficulties with future breastfeeding. If you plan to become pregnant or make significant weight changes, this may affect long-term results. Scars will fade with time but will not disappear completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

1What does surgery involve?
Before surgery you will be marked to determine the new height of your nipple and the placement of your scars. Once asleep the excess skin and breast tissue is removed. Stitches are placed to reform the shape of the breast and a dressing is placed on the skin.
2How can I prepare for surgery?
You will need to buy a post-surgical front-fastening bra. You should buy a selection of sizes. You will need to wear the bra day and night for 6 weeks after surgery. You should stop smoking 6 weeks prior to surgery and follow any advice about your medication.
3What are the risks of surgery?
These will be discussed in the clinic. Please note a specific cup size cannot be guaranteed but you can express a preference. The tissue that is removed is sent for analysis.
4What is the post-operative recovery?
Your wounds will usually be healed in 2 weeks. Occasionally areas can take up to 6 weeks to heal. You will need to wear your post-surgical bra day and night for 6 weeks.
5What about breast feeding?
If you have not started or completed your family you should consider the possibility that you will not be able to breastfeed. Patients are told they will not be able to breastfeed but you may still wish to try and some patients are successful.
6What about mammograms?
When having mammograms in the future you should let them know you have had surgery. There is a higher chance you will be recalled to check an area in the breast but there is no increased chance of getting breast cancer after this surgery. You may be advised to get a mammogram prior to having surgery. This could be related to a high-risk family history or if you are due for a mammogram on the national screening programme. Miss Jackson will advise you when you come for your out-patient appointment.
7Will my breasts grow big again in the future?
Your breasts will continue to change shape with you. In particular with hormone changes such as pregnancy and breastfeeding your breasts will alter.

Key Features To Be Aware Of

  • Surgical time – 2-3 hours
  • Anaesthetic type – General anaesthetic
  • Time off work – 1-2 weeks office work, 2-6 weeks manual work
  • Hospital stay – 0-1 nights
  • Shower – immediately
  • Reasonably mobile – 2-7 days
  • Sleeping position – back or side
  • Exercise including gym – 6 weeks
  • Bras and garments – front fastening post-op bra for 6 weeks day and night
  • Sexual activity – after 1-2 weeks when comfortable
  • Full recovery – 6 weeks
  • Driving – 1-2 weeks

PATIENT TESTIMONIALS

  • 16 May 2024 C.A.  Verified patient
    I can not speak highly enough of the care I received under Philippa Jackson. From initial consultation, through surgery, follow up and beyond, my treatment has been exceptional. Any questions/concerns were explained and reassured and my results are far better than expected.
    16 May 2024 C.A. Verified patient
  • 16 May 2024 S.S.  Verified patient
    The care I have received from Miss Jackson is faultless. From the first consultation to the ongoing care after the surgery it has been amazing. She is always available to answer any queries I have and made me feel at ease and comfortable throughout.
    16 May 2024 S.S. Verified patient
  • 17 May 2024 J.M.  Verified patient
    Exceptional care throughout. Had some complications and was amazed at how many times Ms Jackson insisted on coming in to the hospital daily to insure progress and high standard of post op.
    17 May 2024 J.M. Verified patient
  • 19 May 2024 K.W.  Verified patient
    I can't fault Miss Jackson's care, consideration and expertise. Clinical treatment and administration were both excellent.
    19 May 2024 K.W. Verified patient
  • 11 June 2024 E.K.  Verified patient
    Philippa is so empathetic, professional and skilled. I felt listened to and knew I was in safe hands. She achieved an incredible outcome with my reconstruction - beyond even my most optimistic expectations. Philippa gave me back ownership of my body and I recognise myself again.
    11 June 2024 E.K. Verified patient
  • 15 November 2024 S.L.  Verified patient
    Miss Jackson was just brilliant in my consultation with her. She is compassionate and kind, actively listens and exudes calm professionalism. She laid out my options clearly and didn't try to influence me into a decision that I wasn't ready to make.
    15 November 2024 S.L. Verified patient
  • 30 January 2025 F.L.  Verified patient
    Philippa has been absolutely amazing throughout the whole surgery process, from initial consultation, to surgery day and post-op. She explained everything very clearly and was more than happy to speak to me outside of appointments to answer any questions I had.
    30 January 2025 F.L. Verified patient
  • 21 July 2025 A.C.  Verified patient
    Extremely informative and thorough, happy to talk through all procedures in detail and great after care. Very happy with surgery results. Thank you.
    21 July 2025 A.C. Verified patient
  • Miss E.S.
    Thank you so much for everything! You have given me confidence in my body that I never had before! I am truly so happy and cannot thank you enough!’.
    Miss E.S.
    Breast Reduction
  • Ms R.S.
    ‘A massive thank you for the amazing work you have done and for the end result. You have given me my confidence back and I cannot thank you enough. You’re an amazing surgeon and I’m glad I listened to your advice. Your kindness, support and knowledge and friendly smile put me at ease on every appointment. I feel like a new woman that can finally wear my summer dresses and go swimming with convince again. A massive, massive thank you’.
    Ms R.S.
    Breast Asymmetry Correction
  • Mrs A.D.
    ‘I just wanted to write a note to say a huge thank you for all your work on my reconstruction. Even though the journey was sometimes hard, you have always been so positive and supportive. Your skill is not only in the technical side of surgery but also in the psychological support and guidance you offer. The results of my surgeries are both physical and emotional - I am more confident and so pleased with the outcome. Thank you for all that you’ve done’.
    Mrs A.D.
    Breast Cancer Reconstruction

Further information on Miss Jackson's work and independent testimonials can be found on her TopDoctors profile.