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When should you consider breast reduction surgery?

Just like breast augmentation, breast reduction surgery can help many people feel more confident in their bodies. In fact, there are many reasons you might be considering a breast reduction. But how do you know if now is the right time for the procedure?

We’ll break down who might benefit from breast reduction, signs it could be a good choice for you, and any potential barriers to the procedure.

Why might you consider breast reduction?

Are large breasts creating discomfort or preventing you from taking part in certain activities? ‘Macromastia’ refers to having very large breasts in proportion to your frame, and it can cause an array of issues, including:

  • Back, shoulder, and neck pain
  • Bra strap grooving on shoulders
  • A lack of body confidence
  • Difficulty finding clothes to fit
  • Skin irritation under your bust
  • Nerve pain
  • Difficulty exercising and playing sports

If you relate to any of these symptoms caused by very large breasts, you could be a good candidate for breast reduction surgery (also known as reduction mammaplasty). Read on for more details on how to tell if it’s right for you.

Is breast reduction surgery safe?

Safety is a big concern for many people considering breast reduction surgery. It’s normal to feel worried about the prospect of a procedure. While all forms of surgery come with some risk of complications, breast reduction is very safe. 
When you book your breast reduction surgery with our team in Newcastle, you can feel confident knowing you’ll be cared for every step of the way. Your surgeon, Adam Critchley, is a highly trained and experienced practitioner.

Is there a minimum size for breast reduction?

Technically, you don’t need to have a minimum cup size to be eligible for breast reduction surgery — a surgeon will assess your breast size in relation to your body and proportions. Having said this, the general guidance is to only carry out mammaplasty on patients with a C-cup or larger.

Is it the right time for you to have breast reduction surgery?

You may be eager to arrange an appointment with a breast surgeon to get your reduction booked in. However, it’s important to think about the timing of your surgery, too.

Can you get a breast reduction at any age?

There’s no minimum age for a breast reduction, provided the patient’s breasts are fully grown. This means that some teenagers may be able to undergo the procedure if they are struggling with discomfort or emotional distress. 
However, most surgeons prefer candidates to wait until they are 18 — if you’re younger and need guidance on whether breast reduction is right for you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team for support and advice.

Reasons breast reduction surgery may not be suitable for you right now

As with any cosmetic procedure, it’s essential to consider your options thoroughly before committing. And when it comes to breast reduction, there are a few key factors that may mean you need to hold off on surgery for the moment. 

For example, you won’t be able to have breast reduction surgery if you smoke or vape (with nicotine), have certain chronic health issues, or are very obese. It’s also important to note that breast reduction is likely to cause some scarring — if this is something you aren’t comfortable with, we recommend reconsidering. Please see our guide to breast surgery scarring and care for more insight on the type of scarring you can expect and how you can minimise its appearance.

Experts also suggest postponing your breast reduction if you are planning to lose a significant amount of weight or have children in the near future. This is because your breast size can change with weight loss, and reduction can affect your ability to breastfeed.

Signs you’re ready for a breast reduction consultation

So, how do you know if it’s time to make that call and book your breast reduction consultation? If the following points match up with your current circumstances, now could be a good time to speak with a breast surgeon: 

  • You don’t smoke, and you’re not considered obese.
  • You’ve done your research and know what to expect from a breast reduction procedure — including likely results and possible risks. It can be helpful to look at some breast reduction before and after photos for a clear idea of the potential results.
  • You feel confident you can afford the breast reduction surgery cost (between £8,000 to £9,000 on average).
  • You’re willing to rest for your breast reduction recovery time (generally between two and six weeks).
  • You’re aware that you may not be able to breastfeed after your procedure.

Finding the best breast reduction surgeon near you

Once you feel confident that breast reduction surgery could be a good fit for you, it’s time to speak with a qualified surgeon. They’ll be able to confirm that you are a suitable breast reduction candidate and answer any questions you may have.

It’s helpful to find a surgeon local to you so that you can travel easily for your consultation, surgery, and post-operation check-ups. 

If you’re local to Newcastle, we offer a range of procedures, including breast implant removal and breast reduction surgery here at Adam Critchley.

Discuss your breast reduction surgery with our Newcastle team

Our experienced team — headed up by Consultant Breast Surgeon, Adam Critchley —  is here to support you and help you get the best results from your breast reduction surgery. Our priority is to provide excellent patient care and help you feel happier, healthier, and more confident in your body. 
Please feel free to get in touch to discuss your requirements. You can also take a look at our reviews to learn more about our patients’ experiences.