Frequently Asked Questions

Hello, I’m Adam Critchley. I’m a consultant breast surgeon based in Newcastle upon Tyne, and my goal is to help you make the most informed decisions about your breast surgery.

To help you with this, I’ve compiled some of my answers to the most common questions I receive about breast surgery procedures

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I am a consultant breast surgeon with extensive experience performing a wide range of breast procedures, including augmentation, reduction, lifts, and more. My work is driven by a commitment to patient care and helping you achieve natural, satisfying results. I have been a consultant Oncoplastic breast surgeon at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle Upon-Tyne since 2013, and was Head of Department from 2020-2023. 

As well as taking an active role in breast surgery procedures, I’m also:

  • A Primary Investigator (PI) for nationally funded (NIHR) clinical trials. I have published over 30 medical articles covering breast diseases and treatments. All of which can be found in peer-reviewed journals.

  • A Co-Course Director for the Association of Breast Surgery Level 1 Oncoplastic Breast Course, which is held annually in Bristol.

  • A Deputy Course Director for the National Oncoplastic Fellowship (TIG) 2-day workshop, held at the Freeman Hospital each year.

  • An Assigned Educational Supervisor to trainees at all levels. I have given invited lectures to regional GPs and the Breast Cancer Now charity.

  • A Key Opinion Leader in my specialty, allowing me to contribute my knowledge to focus groups or lectures in 3M (surgical dressings), Motiva (Breast Implants), Mentor (Breast Implants), Acelity, BARD and Sirius Medical (Cancer localisation).

  • An advisor on product design for surgical instruments with Elemental Healthcare (lit retractor) and UK Surgical Instruments.

You are welcome to speak directly with me for any questions or concerns you have about breast surgery. I make sure to personally handle all email enquiries to ensure you receive personalised advice. Feel free to get in touch with me for an initial, no-obligation conversation.

You can easily get in touch with me through our contact page. I personally respond to all of my messages, and there’s no obligation to book an appointment. Whether you’re seeking information, having concerns, or considering a consultation, I’m here to help.

During an initial breast surgery consultation, I take the time to understand your goals and concerns, review your medical history, and explain the different treatment options we have available. We’ll discuss the procedure, expected outcomes, and any potential risks so you can make the most informed decision.

Your consultation will be held at my practice in the Nuffield Hospital in Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne.

All of our surgical breast procedures take place in our fully equipped surgical centre in Nuffield Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne.

After breast surgery, your initial recovery process will begin at the surgical centre in Nuffield Hospital, where we will monitor you closely for a smooth transition. Following discharge, your enhanced recovery will continue at home, guided by our detailed aftercare instructions and follow-up appointments as needed.

The cost of breast surgery varies depending on the specific procedure you’re choosing. A comprehensive breast surgery price list is available on my website. For a more tailored estimate, please get in touch with me to discuss your needs.

Yes, the Nuffield Hospital offers flexible payment plans to make breast surgery more accessible. We can discuss payment options during your consultation to ensure you can go through with your desired treatment in a way that fits your financial needs.

Breast Surgery

Breast augmentation, also known as breast enlargement, is one of the most common breast surgeries I perform on a regular basis. This procedure enhances your breast size, nipple projection, and overall shape using silicone implants.

While there isn’t a perfect age for breast surgery, it’s typically performed on adults who have fully developed breast tissue. Your general health, aesthetic goals, and personal circumstances are all key factors in determining the right time for surgery. 

During your consultation, I will always provide my expert opinion on whether surgery is a safe option for you.

The duration of your breast surgery depends on the type of procedure, but most surgeries last between 1 and 3 hours. I can provide a more precise estimate based on your chosen procedure during your consultation.

All operations/procedures carry an element of risk, but breast surgery procedures are generally very safe when performed by an experienced breast surgeon with an experienced theatre and anaesthetic team. The use of efficient safety protocols and modern surgical techniques also reduces risk.

Breast surgery can address various issues, like asymmetry, sagging, reduction for physical comfort, or augmentation for added volume. Certain medical conditions affecting the breasts, like pain or skin irritation (intertrigo) due to larger breasts, may also benefit from surgery.

Yes, breast surgery is considered major surgery. However, with proper planning, a skilled surgeon, and comprehensive enhanced aftercare, I can assure you that the entire process is manageable with a minimised recovery time.

When performed by an experienced surgeon, breast surgery is generally considered low-risk. I always prioritise a thorough assessment of each patient’s health and any specific needs before the surgery for your safety and peace of mind.

General breast surgery is an umbrella term for a variety of procedures, including augmentation, reduction, asymmetry revision, implant revision, and implant removal. Each procedure is designed to address different aesthetic or health concerns.

There are several types of breast surgery procedures available, each tailored to specific goals. Popular types include breast augmentation, reduction, lift, and reconstructive surgery.

Breast Enlargement (Augmentation)

Yes, breast enhancement can be achieved without implants through a fat transfer, which uses your body fat to add volume. However, this method offers a more subtle result compared to traditional implants, and often requires more than one procedure.

At Adam Critchley, we use Motiva silicone gel implants as they have an exceptional safety profile. They have been scientifically proven to minimise tissue inflammation. We also use Motiva Ergonomix Type 1 and 2 implants, combining an elastic gel and shell for more natural movement.

A fat transfer is a popular alternative to a boob job, providing enhancement by using your body’s fat. We do not offer this service at Adam Critchley. However, I can put you in touch with a trusted breast surgeon to help you with this route.

Silicone implants are a safe way to achieve breast enlargement when performed by an experienced surgeon. I’ll always work with you to determine the safest, most effective option for your body and personal preferences.

Breast implants are generally the most reliable option for adding volume to smaller frames.

A breast lift (mastopexy) can reshape and elevate the breasts without the use of implants, enhancing firmness and position without adding too much volume.

Yes, a breast lift (mastopexy) can effectively reshape and elevate smaller breasts without the need for implants.

If you’ve lost fullness in your breast due to weight loss, a breast lift with or without implants (augmentation mastopexy) can help restore your previous volume and shape.

Breast surgery costs vary depending on the type of augmentation you require. A comprehensive breast surgery price list is available on my website, or you can contact me for more details.

Breast implants typically last 10-15 years, though results vary based on ageing, weight fluctuations, and hormone changes. Many patients maintain satisfying results well beyond this period

Many patients report an increase in confidence and more satisfaction with their appearance after breast augmentation. Whether it’s worth it depends on your personal goals and desired outcome — all of which I am more than happy to discuss with you during our consultation.

Breast implants carry some risks, including capsular contracture (scar tissue forming around the implant), implant rupture, and infection. In rare cases, patients can develop anaplastic large cell lymphoma, a rare type of cancer associated with certain breast implants. This risk is one of the many reasons that I use Motiva implants due to their excellent safety profile and scientific evidence. To date, there are over 3 million Motiva implants inserted globally, and there have been no cases of BIA-ALCL in any patients who have had only these implants.

It’s important to remember that the risks are low. I will always discuss these risks in detail with you during your initial consultation.

Yes, a breast lift (mastopexy) can be done without implants to improve the shape and position of your breasts without adding extra volume.

There is no strict age limit for breast implants as long as you’re in good health. Breast implant suitability is usually determined by your overall health and personal goals rather than age.

As you age, your breast implants may shift slightly. You may wish to replace your breast implants or have a breast implant revision to maintain shape. We can review your options as part of your ongoing care plan.

Mild discomfort is common with breast enlargement surgery, but it’s manageable with medication. Most patients recover well over the first few days. You may be offered a regional anaesthetic in addition to a general anaesthetic to help with the pain.

All surgeries leave an element of scarring, but I make any incisions in discrete locations where possible to minimise visibility. I also use slowly dissolving sutures. Over time, your breast augmentation scars will fade and become less noticeable.

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure. Breast implants are the devices used to enhance breast volume during augmentation.

The best type depends on your body and your desired outcome. During a consultation, we’ll discuss the different options and approaches available for breast augmentation to ensure you get the results you’re after.

The most common risks of breast augmentation include infection, bleeding, and capsular contracture (scar tissue forming around the implant). The risk of losing an implant due to infection is approximately 1%, and in rare cases patients could develop BIA-ALCL and/or squamous cell carcinoma. I always provide a thorough explanation of all the potential risks during your consultation, along with an action plan for if any of these issues arise.

Breast augmentation enhances breast size, shape, and symmetry, helping you achieve a fuller, balanced appearance.

Over time, natural sagging can occur. It’s expected that your body will continue to change even after surgery. Regular check-ups will allow us to monitor and manage this as much as needed.

Pain from a breast augmentation procedure is usually mild to moderate, but well-managed with medication. You will be given general anaesthetic and ultrasound-guided nerve blockers to minimise post-operative pain.

Most breast augmentation patients can return to most normal activities within six weeks.

With high-quality silicone implants and skilled surgical techniques, augmented breasts can feel very natural. This also depends on how drastic a change you’d like in your shape and appearance. The Motiva ergonomix implants in particular are designed for women with very active and physical lifestyles.

Choosing a Breast Surgeon

When choosing a breast surgeon, my biggest advice would be to consider their experience, qualifications, and their ability to understand your goals. 

Look for a board-certified surgeon with positive patient reviews and a strong commitment to safety and personalised care.

For a breast lift (mastopexy), I recommend seeking a breast surgeon with specific experience in breast lift procedures and an eye for natural results. Always look at their before-and-after photos to check whether they align with your vision, and be prepared with questions for your initial consultation to see whether they’re suitable.

When looking for a breast reduction surgeon in the UK, it’s most important to take their experience and training in breast reduction into account. 

For more information about my specific training and experience in breast surgeries (including breast reduction), take a look at my About Me page or scroll up to our Adam Critchley Services FAQs.

To find a reputable breast surgeon in the UK, I recommend you search for qualified professionals who are board-certified and have extensive experience in the type of breast surgery you’re opting for. 

Personal recommendations, patient reviews, and consultations can all provide useful insights to inform your decision.

You may wish to see a breast surgeon to address aesthetic, functional, and health concerns related to your breasts. If you’re considering surgery for enhancement, reduction, or correction of any breast-related issues, breast surgery is a safe and efficient way to help you achieve safe and satisfying results.

At your first appointment, we’ll discuss your goals, health history, and any concerns. I’ll provide a clear explanation of potential options, outline the procedure, and answer any questions you may have to ensure you feel comfortable and informed.

A breast surgeon treats a range of issues, including breast enlargement, reduction, lifting, asymmetry, and implant-related concerns. My goal is to help each patient achieve their desired appearance or comfort, tailored to their unique needs.

Breast Reduction

There’s no strict minimum breast size when it comes to having a breast reduction. However, breast reduction is a popular option for individuals who experience discomfort or health issues due to larger breasts, or they simply don’t like the appearance of their breasts. My patients often describe feeling out of proportion and ‘hating’ their breasts.

Yes, breast reduction surgery typically involves an element of lifting to create a balanced, proportionate appearance. Your excess skin will be removed, and the remaining tissue will be reshaped with an improved and more youthful nipple position The pigmented skin surrounding the nipple (areola) is often enlarged and also benefits from being reduced.

There’s no exact size to define ‘large breasts’. However, overly large breasts are typically those that cause physical discomfort, like back or neck pain, skin irritation, or difficulty with physical activities. If your breast size affects your quality of life, reduction surgery is a viable option. However, you don’t need physical symptoms to consider breast reduction surgery.

The size reduction depends entirely on the individual, based on body proportions and your desired appearance. During our consultation, we can discuss your ideal sizing based on your goals and needs.

Breast reduction surgery is generally recommended for adults, although there is no official upper age limit. If you’re experiencing discomfort, mobility issues, or self-consciousness due to large breasts, we can discuss options that fit your situation —- no matter your age. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident in your skin.

There are no criteria to be met when it comes to breast reduction. Instead, the need to get a breast reduction is based on the amount of discomfort you have due to your breasts’ size, rather than size itself.

Breasts typically do not grow back after reduction, although weight fluctuations and hormonal changes may affect their size over time. Natural changes will still take place, even if you have breast reduction surgery.

The number of sizes your breasts can reduce depends on the individual. Hormones, weight, and age are all important factors. During your breast surgery consultation, we’ll discuss the best approach for achieving your ideal outcome, and I can explain the factors in more detail.

If you are suffering from back and neck pain, shoulder grooves from bra straps, skin irritation around or on the breasts, and mobility issues due to your breasts, then it’s likely that you may benefit from a breast reduction.

It’s important to remember that each breast surgery is unique. However, many patients find they can go braless more comfortably after a breast reduction due to the reduced weight and improved breast shape.

The pain you will experience after breast reduction surgery is usually mild to moderate. We will give you a general anaesthetic for the procedure, so you will be unconscious and asleep for the entire surgery – ultrasound guided nerve blocks will also help to minimise any post-operative pain. Most patients find the recovery period very manageable, and none of my patients typically require drains.

We suggest that you wear a soft, comfortable, and supportive bra during recovery — usually for about six weeks. Front fastening bras are ideal. I am happy to recommend certain options when I see you. After this period, many of my patients can comfortably go braless (depending on their comfort level and healing progress).

Many patients find breast reduction surgery to be life-changing, wishing they had done it years ago. It can alleviate discomfort, improve old confidence, and build on new-found confidence. Whether it’s worth it depends entirely on your individual goals, needs, and how much your symptoms impact you in your daily life.

In most cases of breast reduction surgery, the nipples remain attached and are repositioned along with the rest of the reshaped breast tissue. In rare cases of more significant reductions, your nipples may need to be removed and then re-attached. This will be explained to you in detail if I think this may be required.

Your breasts may settle slightly and drop as they heal, but breast reduction surgery also includes breast lifting techniques to ensure a long-lasting, lifted appearance.

Any major surgery includes an element of risk. The common risks for a breast reduction include infection, scarring, and some changes in nipple sensation (e.g. numbness). In rare cases the blood supply to the nipple can be affected,  resulting in nipple loss. To minimise the already small risk of diagnosing an unexpected breast cancer, I recommend all patients over the age of 40 to undergo a mammogram within 12 months of surgery. For younger patients considering having a family, breastfeeding can still be possible following breast reduction, but cannot be guaranteed as this is not possible to predict. During your consultation, I’ll carefully explain each risk in detail to ensure you make the decision that’s best for your needs.

If you are not in good general health, then breast reduction surgery may not be the route for you. Your general health plays a huge impact in your breast reduction surgery recovery. With this in mind, we’ll always review all the relevant health factors with you to determine your suitability before the surgery commences. Patients considering significant weight loss should ideally wait until they reach their target weight and remain stable for 2-3 months prior to cosmetic breast surgery.

Breast Lift

A breast lift generally provides durable results, often lasting 10 to 15 years or more. However, it’s important to note that factors like ageing, skin quality, gravity, and weight changes can impact your results over time. Yes — even gravity! If you notice changes that you’re unhappy with, I also offer breast asymmetry surgery.

A breast lift won’t significantly alter your breast size, as the focus is more on reshaping and lifting the breast rather than reducing volume. A breast lift typically increases nipple projection and upper pole fullness giving a more youthful appearance.

The type of surgery you’re thinking of is a breast lift — also known as a mastopexy. This is a standard procedure carried out for lifting and reshaping sagging breasts. Alternatively, patients with saggy breasts and volume loss may also opt for a breast lift with an implant — also known as an augmentation mastopexy.

The results from a breast lift generally last from 10 to 15 years, although it’s important to remember that natural ageing processes and lifestyle factors — like smoking, exercise, and sun exposure — can impact long-term outcomes.

If sagging or loss of firmness in your breasts has been affecting your confidence or mobility, a breast lift may be a good option. I can help assess your unique needs during our initial consultation, where I’ll be able to answer any questions you may have — no matter how big or small.

In some cases, the NHS may cover breast lifts for medical reasons, like those impacted by breast cancer treatment. However, purely cosmetic lifts typically require private treatment.

Most of my patients find a breast lift improves their confidence and comfort, making it a worthwhile choice for those with a clear vision of what they want their body and shape to look and feel like.

If you’d like to perk your breasts up naturally without surgery, I’d recommend carrying out exercises that focus on strengthening the chest muscles. These exercises may provide a minor lift, but surgery is the only way to achieve the most significant and noticeable results for sagging breasts.

The average price for a breast uplift in the UK is anywhere from £4,800 to £11,000. On my breast surgery price list, you’ll see that I charge £8,400 for a breast lift, £9,269 for a breast lift with an implant exchange, and £9,872 for a breast lift with implants.

It’s worth noting that breast augmentation can be done in two stages depending on your requirements. Stage 1 is usually preferred by patients as it is quicker and cheaper, and prioritises elevating and reshaping the breast tissue. However, patients can end up dissatisfied 6-12 months down the line with just stage 1 as the breast tissues can relax and droop. In this case, a revisionary surgery can be done free of charge. 

The alternative is a 2 stage procedure, starting with the mastopexy to create the ideal shape. 3-6 months later, the patient then undergoes augmentation, and the mastopexy can be adjusted at the time of procedure by me if required.

A breast lift won’t make your breasts smaller, as it reshapes rather than reduces. However, you may find that the firmer, higher placement of your breasts can make them appear — and feel — slightly more compact.

A breast lift is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin, reshapes breast tissue, and repositions the nipple for a firmer, more elevated look. It essentially ‘re-cones’ the breasts for a fuller appearance.

You may benefit from a breast lift if you have noticeable sagging, downward-pointing nipples, or an overall loss of breast shape that you’re unhappy with.

A standard breast lift procedure includes removing skin, lifting and reshaping breast tissue, and sometimes resizing the areola to achieve a fuller breast contour.

A breast lift does not specifically reduce your cup size, although the reshaped, lifted appearance may feel or look more compact. It typically gives  more nipple projection and upper pole fullness. This can actually result in a higher cup size, as the cup size (the letter) is calculated by how projected the nipples are in relation to your chest wall measurement (the number).

If you’re unhappy with sagging breasts, any unwelcome changes in shape, or downward-pointing nipples, a breast lift may help you gain your confidence back.

Wearing a supportive, comfortable, and soft bra is a recommended part of our post-surgery plan. We recommend you wear one to aid your recovery and maintain results. Not forever, though — many patients find they can go braless again after healing.

You should expect your breast lift results to last around 10 to 15 years. However, it’s important to keep natural ageing in mind as a factor. Maintaining a stable weight can also prolong your results, as breast tissue can be very responsive to sudden weight changes.

A breast lift focuses on reshaping the breast tissue rather than reducing their size. This surgery can improve nipple position, projection, increased upper pole fullness and the ability to reduce the areola.

Armpit Fat Removal

Axillary breast tissue — also known as excess breast tissue in the armpit — can easily be surgically removed to create a smoother contour. Armpit tissue removal is a minor surgical procedure that could help improve your comfort and body image.

Once axillary breast tissue is removed, it typically does not grow back. However, it’s important to note that significant weight fluctuations or hormonal changes can impact the overall tissue distribution in the armpit area.

Unfortunately, armpit fat (also known as axillary breast tissue) can be stubborn and is not always responsive to diet or exercise. As armpit fat is a type of glandular tissue, it doesn’t respond to calorie deficits in the same way as regular fat cells. Armpit fat surgery is an effective option and popular option for a more permanent and efficient solution.

Yes, armpit fat and excess armpit tissue can easily be removed surgically with minor surgery. Armpit fat removal surgery is often performed through liposuction or excision, depending on the amount of tissue needing to be removed and your desired appearance. Some patients choose to undergo armpit fat removal at the same time as a breast reduction.

Axillary breast tissue is often caused by genetic factors or developmental issues, causing the breast tissue to extend into the armpit area. This happens due to a regression of the embryonic mammary ridge during development. It’s a common condition that can affect both comfort, confidence, and appearance.

Axillary breast tissue is usually harmless, but it can cause discomfort or self-consciousness for some individuals. An armpit fat removal surgery will be able to address any aesthetic or functional concerns you may have.

The recovery time for armpit fat removal is usually considerably less than major breast surgeries. Most of my patients resume daily activities within a few days, although complete recovery may take up to a few weeks.

Breast Implant Removal

After breast implant removal surgery, you may find that your breasts appear smaller and potentially have less firmness. Some of my patients opt for a breast lift after breast implant removal to maintain their shape and desired contour.

After a breast implant removal, you will have some mild pain which is typically manageable with the help of medication. You can expect your recovery period to be shorter than your initial breast implant surgery, with most of my patients resuming regular activities within a week or so.

Every surgery comes with side effects that I will make sure you are aware of before commencing. Breast implant removal side effects can include swelling, bruising, and a temporary change in breast shape. It’s also common to notice a change in skin elasticity around the breasts, depending on how long your implants were in place.

Once you’ve had your breast implants removed, you can either leave your breasts as they are or you can have a combined surgery of breast implant removal with a breast lift to enhance any lost shape and volume. During your initial consultation, we can discuss which surgical approach you’d prefer.

Breast implants generally last 10-15 years, so it makes sense to have your implants removed or replaced after this period, however there is no absolute rule. You may also consider breast implant removal if complications arise, such as rupture or capsular contracture (scar tissue forming around the implant), or if you’d prefer an aesthetic change.

Breast implant removal with breast lift recovery typically takes a few weeks. Most of my patients often return to most activities within two weeks. However, full healing may take longer for combined implant removal and breast lift procedures.

The appearance of your breasts post-implant-removal can depend on the breast implant size, your skin skin elasticity, and your natural breast tissue. Some patients may experience sagging or a change in volume, which can always be addressed with a breast lift (mastopexy) if desired.

If you have breast implants and are suffering with pain, changes in shape, or hardening of the implant, you likely need to become implant free. If you are based in Newcastle, I offer a One Stop Breast Clinic in Jesmond, where you can receive rapid access to a breast assessment and check-up. This will help us identify any breast implant issues earlier rather than later.

Whether your breasts will sag or not after breast implant removal depends on the implant size and the state of your natural tissue. You should expect some sagging to occur post-removal. However, if this is something you are unhappy with, a breast lift can easily help restore shape and firmness if sagging is a concern.

Breast implant removal is less invasive than the initial implant placement procedure, however it is still a moderate surgery that requires expert aftercare.

There’s no specific age requirement for implant removal, though most patients opt for this surgery at around the 10-15 year mark, or when their implants start to show signs of wear, or begin to cause discomfort.

When you get your breast implants removed with Adam Critchley, I will review you early the following morning after your surgery to check you are well comfortable. If all looks good, a nurse will usually discharge you later the same morning.

Becoming implant free can relieve discomfort, address any implant-related complications, and offer you a more natural silhouette, if desired.

Breast Asymmetry

Breast asymmetry is extremely common and usually harmless. However, if your breast asymmetry causes you discomfort or self-consciousness, breast asymmetry surgery is available to achieve a more balanced appearance.

Your breast asymmetry can change with age, mostly due to natural factors like hormonal shifts, weight changes, and — surprisingly — gravity. These factors could affect each breast differently over time.

Your hormonal changes during menopause can lead to some changes in your breast size and shape, and this could potentially affect symmetry. It’s important to remember that these shifts are natural, however they can easily be corrected with breast asymmetry surgery if they cause you discomfort or aesthetic concerns.

Severe breast asymmetry is typically where one breast is noticeably larger or differently shaped than the other. You may find that this affects the way your clothing fits or your self-confidence.

Your breast asymmetry could become more noticeable with age due to a loss of skin elasticity and natural changes in breast tissue. If you’re worried about your breast asymmetry, feel free to book onto one of our One Stop Clinic check-ups. We can discuss your options with you, and see if surgical intervention could help.

If you have asymmetric breasts, this could be due to your genetics, hormonal fluctuations, and other developmental factors. Breast asymmetry can also be influenced by lifestyle changes, whether you breastfeed, and whether you’ve had any previous breast surgery.

Breast asymmetry is very common and considered normal — to some degree. If the size difference in your breasts is minimal and doesn’t cause you distress or discomfort, breast asymmetry surgery may not be necessary for you at this time.

If your breast asymmetry affects your comfort or confidence, surgical options like breast augmentation, reduction, or lift could help you achieve a more symmetrical look. However, it’s important to remember that some asymmetry is natural, and it’s usually nothing to worry about from a medical standpoint.

Uneven breasts can be easily corrected without implants through a breast lift surgery or a breast reduction to create a balanced appearance between the two.

Breast asymmetry often comes down to developmental variations, genetic factors, and natural body changes over time. Hormonal shifts and lifestyle factors like pregnancy or weight fluctuation — especially when sudden — can also contribute to breast asymmetry.

Get in touch

For any questions you may have or to discuss your options, please feel free to get in touch with me directly — I’m always here to help. I also always reply to my emails personally, and there’s never any obligation to book an appointment.