Breast Surgery

Breast Reduction

at Cadogan Clinic, London’s Leading Cosmetic Surgery Specialists. 

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Medically Reviewed February 2024, by Mr. Bryan Mayou (GMC: 1414396) - founder of the Cadogan Clinic and one of the world's leading plastic surgeons

What is Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction, also known as a mammoplasty or ‘boob reduction’, is a procedure for reducing the size and enhancing the shape of your breasts.  

Breast reduction surgery removes excess tissue, fat and skin in the breasts to reduce the weight and reduce their overall appearance, while maintaining or enhancing their shape. Your breasts and nipples will be lifted and reshaped to result in breasts that are flattering and in proportion with your body size and shape. 

Breast reduction surgery is perfect for anyone with large breasts that cause discomfort or are out of proportion to their body. This can be caused either through natural development or after childbirth and breastfeeding. Breast reduction surgery is available for both women and men. Male breast reduction is known as Gynaecomastia surgery and is approached in a slightly different way, which our consultant surgeons also perform for our male patients. 

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Breast reduction surgery can be paired with other Breast Surgery procedures. For example, if your breasts have lost their skin laxity and are not only disproportionately large but also sit very low on your chest, then a Breast Lift may be advisable in conjunction with your reduction. Naturally, every woman's body is unique, and every patient's desired outcome is unique, too, so your treatment plan and surgeon's recommendations will be tailored to you. 


Breast Reduction
At a Glance

Surgery Time

2 - 3 hours

Time off work

1 - 2 weeks

Hospital Stay

Day Case

Shower

After 1 week

Reasonable Mobility

After 1 day

Exercise

6 weeks

Bras & Garments

Sports bra worn for 8 weeks

Sexual Activity

Restricted activity after 4 weeks

Sleeping on back recommended for 1-2 weeks

1 -2 weeks

Full Recovery

6 - 8 weeks

Driving

2 weeks


Before and After

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Why Do People Have a Breast Reduction?

Breast size and shape depend on a number of factors, including hormone levels, genetics and weight. The size of your breasts can also be influenced by pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding which can all cause long term and permanent changes, resulting in unwanted developments to the size and shape of your breasts. 

Larger breasts can cause a number of problems including discomfort, self-consciousness, and difficulties in finding well fitting clothes or comfortably exercising or taking part in sport. Some patients also find they experience serious back and neck pain and skin irritation as a result of their larger breasts, leading them to opt for breast reduction surgery. Before and After Breast Reduction photos demonstrating the exceptional results of surgery can also be incredibly persuasive. 

 

We've seen a 1.5x rise in Breast Reduction procedures at the Cadogan Clinic since 2019. 1 in 10 procedures performed at the Cadogan Clinic in 2023 was a Breast Reduction.

Who is Suitable?

At Cadogan Clinic, our consultant surgeons will assess whether you are suitable for a Breast Reduction in a bespoke one to one consultation lasting between 30 and 60 minutes. 

Your surgeon will assess that your breasts are fully developed. They will then discuss your expectations of surgery, assess from here whether you would also benefit from an accompanying procedure, and ensure you understand the individual results that are possible for you. They will also assess your general physical and mental health to make sure you are suitable for a general anaesthetic procedure, this may include your weight, and any medical and mental conditions you have. You must be over 18 to undergo a breast reduction.

Words from our clients:


The Cost of a Breast Reduction

Breast Reduction costs vary based on each patient’s precise goals and the individualised nature of our breast treatments.   

We invite you to get in touch with our dedicated team of friendly patient advisors to discuss your unique goals in more detail and discuss Breast Reduction surgery cost in more detail.  

Cadogan Clinic has collaborated with Chrysalis Finance to offer a variety of payment choices for our patients including:
12 months 0% Interest-free - APR
24 - 60 months at 12.9% APR
Flexible Finance

Get in touch now to get a breast reduction cost.

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Included in this treatment

Up to two 60 minute consultations with a leading specialist plastic surgeon at our award-winning premises in Chelsea

Your procedure carried out at London’s leading specialist cosmetic surgery centre of excellence

24/7 on call nurse assistance

Dedicated Patient Co-ordinator, as a personal point of contact through your journey with Cadogan

A pre-operative medical assessment to ensure you are fit for surgery

Comprehensive post-operative aftercare courtesy of our specialist cosmetic nurses


What is Involved in a Breast Reduction?

Breast Reduction is a surgical procedure performed under general anaesthetic and usually takes 2-3 hours to complete depending on whether other procedures are also performed or if implants are used. 

Overall, the boob reduction surgery will reduce the size and weight, while enhancing the shape and lift, of your breasts. Although there are different techniques that your surgeon may use, they all involve reducing the size of the breasts, reshaping the breasts and repositioning the nipples, resulting in breasts that are in proportion to the rest of your body. Boob reduction surgery can also be combined with a Breast Lift (or Mastopexy) to ensure the best positioning of the breasts. 

During your procedure, your surgeon will take the utmost care to maintain the connections between the breast tissue and your skin, allowing you to breastfeed after your surgery. They will also ensure the blood supply is preserved to allow the breasts to be fully functioning and proportionate. 

Initial Breast Reduction Recovery time is usually between 1-2 weeks, and you should be fully recovered 6 weeks after your surgery. In this time, you will be advised to reduce physical activity, carry or support heavy objects, and wear a surgical bra to assist with healing and to preserve your surgical results. 

Breast Reduction for Men

Gynaecomastia is a common condition which causes male breasts to become enlarged. It can be caused by a number of factors including hormonal changes, including during puberty, weight gain, or old age. It can also occur seemingly without reason in some patients. Gynaecomastia can make men feel self-conscious and the procedure to treat this is designed to restore your confidence as well as your chest. 

The procedure is carried out in a different way to the female version of the surgery, and often your surgeon will only need to use liposuction to create the results you are looking for. This procedure can be combined with other treatments, such as Nipple Reduction, to give you the best overall results.  

What Are the Benefits of Breast Reduction Procedures?

Breast Reduction procedures have a number of benefits to the patient, both physical and mental. 

Reduced volume and weight 
If you find your breasts cause physical discomfort or pain, leaving you unable to carry out certain activities, Breast Reduction surgery will address this, resulting in smaller, more manageable and comfortable breasts. 

Improved shape and lift 
Your surgeon will make sure that your breasts are a desirable shape and in the best position aesthetically, as well as correct any asymmetry

Desired body proportions 
Large breasts can cause a top heavy appearance, making it difficult to find clothes that fit and suit you. Breast Reduction will improve your bodily proportions and make it easier to choose clothing and feel comfortable in yourself. 

Increased self-confidence 
Patients who have undergone Breast Reduction find that they are more comfortable in their bodies and their overall appearance. They are often happier with how their clothes fit and report a higher quality of life, including being able to take part in sporting and social activities that they didn’t feel comfortable to previously. 


Breast Reduction London Surgeons

We have invited a selection of the country's very best consultants to join us at the Cadogan Clinic so that you can be sure that whatever the nature of your treatment, you will be seeing one of the top practitioners in the country. 


What to Expect

Below you will find some key information to help you prepare for surgery and make necessary arrangements to ensure you have the support you need and that everything runs smoothly on the day.

You will meet your surgeon for up to two consultations at our award-winning Chelsea based clinic to discuss your Breast Reduction, your concerns and the results you are hoping for. Consultations usually take 30 - 60 minutes and your surgeon will explain the surgical plan that is best suited to you and your concerns and the results you can expect.

Your surgical advisor will suggest that you write down any questions you have for your surgeon before your consultation. This will ensure you feel fully prepared and are able to get the most from your consultation. If you do have any questions following your consultations, your patient advisor will be able to communicate these with your surgeon.

Your surgeon will also take measurements and photos for your medical records and will assess your general physical and mental health.

Your surgeon will send your surgical plan through to your patient advisor. If your surgeon has decided you are suitable for Breast Reduction, your advisor will  explain the plan, pricing and offer available dates to you, before giving your two week cooling off period to allow you to consider whether you wish to proceed with your surgery. During this two weeks, you are able to ask any questions you may have and consider the plan your surgeon has written for you.

If you decide to go ahead with Breast Reduction, you will next visit the clinic on your procedure day. Before your surgery, you will be asked to follow these steps:

  • You will need to complete your pre-operative paperwork to allow your surgeon, anaesthetist and nurses to review your medical and psychological records and advise of any changes you need to make in your lifestyle during the the run up to your surgery.
  • You will be asked to stop smoking or vaping 6 eeeks before surgery. This is vital to ensure your recovery is smooth and your body can heal itself properly. You may need to take this into account when planning your surgery date with your advisor.
  • You will also be asked to cut down on your alcohol consumption as this can also negatively impact the healing and recovery process.
  • Please do not take anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and aspirin, or any herbal supplements as these can all increase the risk of bleeding during your surgery which may lead to complications
  • You will need to organise a friend or a family member to come and collect you after the surgery. They need to be able to either drive you or accompany you in a taxi, and they will need to stay with you for the first night.
  • In the 6 hours before you arrive at the clinic, do not eat any solid food or consume any juice or milk (including tea or coffee). You may have small amounts of clear liquids such as water, or black tea and coffee up to 2 hours before you arrive at the clinic.

You will be asked to arrive at the clinic an hour before your surgery time on the day of your procedure. Your surgeon, anaesthetist and our specialist nurses will answer any final questions you may have, and will prepare you for your Breast Reduction including any marking the surgeon may need to do.

When you are taken into the operating theatre, your anaesthetist will administer your general anaesthetic so you are asleep throughout the Breast Reduction procedure. All procedures at Cadogan Clinic are done using TIVA (Total Intravenous Anaesthesia) minimising post-operative sickness and nausea and allowing for a faster initial recovery.

You will then undergo your Breast Reduction. When the surgery is completed, your surgeon will put your garment on you, and you will be taken to our recovery ward. You will wake up from the anaesthetic and our nurses will check your vital health signs. When you have woken up and you are comfortable, you will be taken into our ambulatory ward. You will have something to eat and drink and a nurse will talk you through any medication and immediate recovery steps you need to take once you leave. When you are ready, the nurses will ask your chaperone to come, you will be discharged and you will leave the hospital

It is normal to experience some pain and discomfort during the first few days after your Breast Reduction, such as discomfort in your breasts or a feeling of pressure or tightness. Your surgeon and anaesthetist will have prescribed any medications you may need to ensure you remain as pain free as possible. You will be up and moving within 24 hours and able to shower normally within 3 days.

Breast Reduction recovery is usually reasonably fast and most patients are able to return to their usual routines after around a week, with full healing (including bruising and swelling) taking 2-3 weeks to subside. You will be asked to wear a surgical bra or a sports bra for the first few weeks of recovery, both during the day and at night. This will support your breasts, help to reduce swelling and maintain your results whilst the area settles.

One week after your surgery you will have an in person appointment with our nurses so they can assess your incisions and make sure you are healing well. They will answer any questions you may have about your recovery and make sure you know how to look after your dressings and incisions effectively at home.

Six weeks after your procedure you will meet with your surgeon again so they can check your recovery, discuss how you feel your Breast Reduction went and answer any questions about your ongoing journey from that point. After six weeks your structured care plan will be concluded, but if you have any further questions or concerns we encourage you to contact the team and speak with one of our specialist nurses.

The Patient Journey. A breakdown of what you can expect on your journey with us

We are deeply invested in ensuring that every step of your surgical journey with us is as informative and reassuring to you as it can be. This article outlines what you can expect at each stage of the journey

The Patient Journey

Words from Our Founder

Mr. Bryan Mayou

I have performed many thousands of breast surgeries over the course of my career, and I am very passionate about the transformative effect these surgeries can have on the women who choose them. Breast Reduction in particular goes beyond just aesthetics; Breast Reduction in just two or three hours of surgery can change the lives of those suffering from the pain, discomfort or daily frustrations of having large, heavy breasts, and provide not only physical relief but also a newfound confidence and quality of life post operatively.
Mr. Bryan Mayou

Frequently Asked Questions

Breast Reduction surgery is performed under general anaesthetic as a day case procedure, meaning you are able to go home on the day of your surgery.

There are several Breast Reduction techniques and your surgeon will be able to advise on which is the best option for you. They all involve the reduction of the size and weight of the breasts, while enhancing the shape and the lift to leave you with a desirable and aesthetic appearance. The blood supply will be maintained, to ensure you have fully functioning breasts which are more comfortable and in proportion to your body.

You will need to wear a surgical bra both day and night, for up to 6 weeks after your procedure. Your garment will support your breasts and protect your wounds to ensure you have the best recovery and results. As you recover, your surgical bra will be especially important as you begin to undertake more physical activities, which may put slightly more strain on your breasts.

Although loss of sensation is a risk after Breast Reduction, it is rare and does not occur very often.

Many women with naturally larger breasts find they do not have much sensation in their nipples pre-surgery and although this cannot be heightened with surgery, it is unlikely to be lost completely.

General advice is to take two weeks off work following breast reduction surgery, since swelling is greatest during this time and it is advisable to give wounds time to heal.  During this period it is advisable to keep physical activity to a minimum or drive. It is, however, advisable to mobilise as soon as possible after breast reduction surgery.

If stitches need to be removed, this is generally carried out at about two weeks after the operation.  At this stage dressings are removed and women are encouraged to wear comfortable crop tops or sports bras for support until any swelling and discomfort has resolved, after which they can start wearing normal bras in their new size – this may take a few weeks longer.

Massage and moisturizing are a vital process of breast reduction aftercare and expert advice will be given on the best techniques from our dedicated team.

Following Breast Reduction surgery, you will most likely have some scarring. There are different techniques that can be used for Breast Reduction and the scarring for each varies, depending on the incisions that need to be made.

One of the most common scarring patterns for Breast Reduction is an anchor pattern, resulting in scarring around the nipple with a vertical line down the breasts, and a horizontal line under the breast. An increasingly popular approach results in only a vertical line down the lower half of the breasts, however this approach is not always suitable for patients with extremely large breasts.

In some cases, your surgeon may be able to carry out your procedure using only liposuction, which results in minimal scarring. You will discuss the benefits of each option with your surgeon, and they will be able to advise on the best plan for you. They will also provide you with aftercare advice to look after your scars and to reduce their appearance as much as possible.

Breast reduction surgery necessarily requires an incision that will result in a breast reduction scar that will likely be red and slightly raised in the weeks and months after your procedure, before it fades completely.

Breast reduction scar visibility can, however, be greatly impacted by the quality of the surgeon you choose, as well as the level of aftercare you receive.

In the hands of a skilled surgeon the breast reduction scar can be positioned very discreetly during your breast reduction surgery, whilst an expert scar minimization team can provide you with the tools and techniques to enhance the healing process. For example, the appearance of your breast reduction scars can be reduced by regular moisturisation and massage techniques, all of which our dedicated team will advise our patients in the days following your procedure.

Due to our specialism in liposuction, it is possible in some cases to perform breast reduction surgery using liposuction techniques only. This technique is often known as ‘scarless breast reduction’ since the incisions required can be made in less prominent positions, such as under the arms, where they can not been seen.

Breast reduction recovery time varies from case to case but you should be able to return to your normal day-to-day activities after about two weeks. However, we recommend our patients be sensitive to their body and try not to do too much too soon, ceasing activities after or during which any pain is experienced.

We recommend temporary suspension of activities such as going to the gym, and practicing aerobics and sports that involve using your arms. Any activity that requires lifting your elbows above your shoulders should also be carefully monitored.

All breast reduction techniques require an incision that will result in a scar that will likely be red and slightly raised in the weeks and months after your procedure, before fading completely.

Scar visibility can, however, be greatly impacted by the quality of the surgeon you choose, as well as the level of aftercare you receive. In the hands of a skilled surgeon the scar can be positioned very discreetly, whilst an expert scar minimization team can provide you with the tools and techniques to enhance the healing process. For example, scar the appearance can be reduced by regular moisturisation and massage techniques, all of which our dedicated team will advise our patients in the days following your procedure.

Due to our specialism in liposuction, it is possible in some cases to perform breast reduction using liposuction techniques only. This technique is often known as ‘scarless breast reduction’ since the incisions required can be made in less prominent positions, such as under the arms, where they can not been seen.

You can have a full body shower one week after your breast reduction surgery. This is usually when any bandages and drains are removed.

It is important that you use non-perfumed soap and gently pat yourself dry with a clean towel afterwards. Do not scrub yourself in the shower or rub yourself dry with the towel as this may irritate or dislodge the stitches.

You must not take a bath or soak the affected area in hot water until at least four weeks after your breast reduction.

 

You must avoid strenuous exercise, such as running, jogging or exercise classes, for six weeks after your breast reduction surgery.

During this six week period you must also limit your day-to-day physical activity, which means no lifting, pushing, or pulling objects heavier than 5kg. This means being careful when carrying shopping bags, lifting children and doing household chores like laundry and vacuuming. We recommend asking friends or family members to help you with these activities during the recovery period.

We recommend wearing a sports bra for eight weeks after your breast reduction to give you support. However, wearing a sports bra does not mean that you can safely take part in the activities mentioned above.

There are a number of reasons why a woman may choose to undergo breast reduction surgery. These vary from person to person, but these may include to alleviate back, shoulder and neck pain caused by large breasts, to stop skin irritation and rashes developing underneath the breasts and to improve low self-esteem.

In short, if your large breasts are affecting your physical, mental or emotional wellbeing, or interfering with your day-to-day life, then you may want to consider speaking to a consultant about breast reduction surgery.

Breast Reduction surgery is not a weight loss procedure. However, it will help with making exercise more comfortable and easier, meaning for many patients it opens up their options in terms of being able to lose weight.

As Breast Reduction will help to improve your body’s proportions and your posture, you may find the way clothes fit you changes after surgery, and your clothes size may reduce. However, this is dependent on how your breasts impacted your body and appearance, before your surgery and cannot be guaranteed. The results will vary from person to person.

If large breasts are causing you physical pain or discomfort, then breast reduction surgery can help to alleviate this pain or prevent it from getting worse. If your breasts are causing you to have low self-esteem or poor body image, surgery may help with this. If the size of your breasts are having an adverse impact on your social life, work or romantic relationships, then reduction surgery may help. 

For many women with larger breasts, back pain is a problem which affects their everyday life. Breast Reduction surgery has been shown to improve upper back pain and shoulder pain caused by the weight of larger breasts and the strain this puts on the surrounding muscles and ligaments.

Read our article here to find out more about how much breast reduction surgery costs at the Cadogan Clinic in London.

Breast reduction surgery is a highly effective technique to help lose breast weight and reduce the impact of large, heavy breasts. 

Heavy breasts are uncomfortable and can cause both physical discomfort and pain, and psychological distress. 

Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue from naturally large and heavy breasts and relieves the associated discomfort. 

There is no standard amount of cup sizes that a private boob reduction procedure reduces the breast size by. It can be just one or several and depends on initial breast size, tissue density and the patient’s goals.  

Breast Reduction size changes are not typically measured in cup sizes, so you should speak to a medical professional for a more accurate estimate of your expected breast reduction size change.

Yes, you can get a private boob reduction and uplift combination procedure at the Cadogan Clinic. A boob reduction and uplift are typically combined when both a reduction in size and a better positioning of the breast is required. 


A state of the art, award winning clinic.

Founded in 2004 by world renowned plastic surgeon Mr Bryan Mayou, we now work with over 100 leading consultants and successfully treat over 20,000 patients each year. We have been winning industry awards since inception.

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All of our treatments take place at our beautiful boutique premises in Chelsea. We have six consulting rooms and five operating rooms, as well as a dedicated pre and post-operative suite, and a full team of specialist nursing staff.

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We were founded in 2004 by world renown plastic surgeon Mr Bryan Mayou, best known for his pioneering work in the area of liposuction, lasers and microvascular surgery. We continue to collaborate with pioneers in our field.

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The Risks of a Breast Reduction

Before opting for a Breast Reduction op or any cosmetic surgery, it is vital to be aware of the potential risks and complications. Although Breast Reduction can produce transformational results, there are risks that you need to consider and discuss with your surgeon. 

In rare instances following a Breast Reduction op, you may require Breast Revision Surgery.  

Some risks include: 

  • Hematoma - This is the build up of blood beneath the skin in the breast area and will require treatment from your surgeon
  • Poor wound healing - Healing complications or infection can affect the incision sites
  • Asymmetry - Occasionally, one breast may appear larger or smaller than the other or the position of one breast may be affected
  • Seroma - This is the formation of a lump under the skin caused by buildup of fluid around the incision sites. This will require treatment from your surgeon.
  • Breast implant complications - If your surgeon has used implants as part of your procedure, there can occasionally be complications including scar tissue or a distorted shape.
  • Some loss of sensation - Though your surgeon will do everything in their power to maintain blood flow and therefore sensation to your breasts and nipples, there is always a small chance this could be disrupted.

In the event of an unforeseen complication, a secondary surgery may be required. The need for a revision surgery is often beyond the surgeon’s control. Our skilled consultant surgeons are qualified professionals who have performed Breast Reduction numerous times.

It is also important to to acknowledge that any surgical procedure carries a slight risk of:

  • Excessive bleeding 
  • Allergic reaction to general anesthetic
  • Infection at the surgical site
  • Deep vein thrombosis (blood clot in a vein)

Your surgeon will discuss all possible risks with you as part of your consultation process and will advise if there is anything specific you need to do to reduce your personal risks.




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2021

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2020

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2019

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2018

My Face My Body

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2018

Aesthetics Awards

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2017

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