Breast Reduction on the NHS

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that aims to reduce the size of a person's breasts. On the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom, this procedure may be available for individuals who meet specific criteria.

Eligibility Criteria

• Severe back and neck pain caused by large breast size
• Shoulder grooving from bra straps due to heavy breasts
• Rashes or skin infections under the breasts
• Difficulty participating in physical activities due to breast size
• Low self-esteem or psychological distress related to breast size

Referral Process

To be considered for breast reduction surgery on the NHS, individuals typically need to be referred by their General Practitioner (GP) to a specialist plastic surgeon. The GP will assess the individual's symptoms and determine if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Assessment and Evaluation

Once referred, the individual will undergo an assessment with a plastic surgeon to evaluate their suitability for surgery. This may involve:

• A physical examination of the breasts
• Measurement of breast size and weight
• Discussion of medical history and any previous surgeries
• Evaluation of psychological well-being and motivation for surgery

Surgical Procedure

Breast reduction surgery typically involves:

• Removal of excess breast tissue, fat, and skin
• Repositioning of the nipple-areola complex
• Reshaping of the breast to achieve a more balanced appearance

Post-Operative Care

After surgery, individuals can expect:

• Pain and discomfort, which can be managed with medication
• Swelling, bruising, and numbness, which should resolve over time
• A hospital stay of one to two nights, depending on the individual's needs
• Follow-up appointments with the plastic surgeon to monitor healing and remove sutures

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, breast reduction surgery carries risks and potential complications, including:

• Bleeding or hematoma
• Infection
• Scarring or keloid formation
• Numbness or changes in nipple sensation
• Asymmetry or uneven breast shape

Recovery Time

The recovery time for breast reduction surgery can vary, but most individuals can expect to:

• Take two to six weeks off work, depending on the nature of their job
• Avoid heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous activities for several weeks
• Wear a supportive bra for several months to help with healing and shaping