Breast Reduction Surgery
Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue to create a smaller, lighter and more proportionate breast. It can relieve physical discomfort and improve confidence.
What is it?
Breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) is a surgical procedure that removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin to create smaller, lifted breasts that are in proportion with your body.
Why might someone consider it?
- Back, neck or shoulder discomfort from heavy breasts
- Skin irritation beneath the breasts
- Difficulty exercising or finding comfortable clothing
- Breast asymmetry where one breast is significantly larger
- Personal discomfort with breast size
- Grooving from bra straps on the shoulders
What happens during your consultation?
Miss Dua will discuss your symptoms, examine your breasts and explain the surgical approach. She uses freehand skin marking to plan incisions tailored to your anatomy.
Treatment or surgical process
Excess tissue and skin are removed, and the nipple is repositioned. Miss Dua uses pedicle techniques designed to preserve nipple blood supply and sensation. The amount of tissue removed is tailored to your goals.
Recovery
Most patients stay one night in hospital. A compression bra is worn for six weeks. Return to work is typically after two weeks, with full return to exercise at six weeks.
Results
The breasts are smaller, lighter and lifted. Final shape settles over several months as swelling resolves.
Scarring
Scarring depends on the technique. Miss Dua uses patterns designed to minimise visible scarring. Scars fade over 12 to 18 months.
Risks and considerations
- Changes in nipple sensation, usually temporary but sometimes permanent
- Scarring, which fades over time
- Asymmetry between the two breasts
- Difficulty breastfeeding, depending on the technique
- Wound healing problems, particularly in smokers
Miss Dua's approach
Miss Dua combines oncoplastic training with an artist's eye for form. Every incision is planned freehand to suit your specific anatomy, with scar placement and natural contouring in mind.
Breast Reduction — frequently asked questions
How much tissue can be removed?
The amount depends on your body and goals. Miss Dua will discuss what is appropriate during your consultation.
Will I be able to breastfeed?
This depends on the surgical technique. Miss Dua uses techniques designed to preserve ductal tissue where possible.
Will insurance cover breast reduction?
This varies. If you are seeking treatment for physical symptoms, Miss Dua can provide documentation to support your case.
Where Miss Dua sees patients
Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital, Spire Hartswood Hospital
Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital, Spire Hartswood Hospital
Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital, Spire Hartswood Hospital
Wharfside Health Centre (Bupa Canary Wharf)
Wharfside Health Centre (Bupa Canary Wharf), Cromwell Hospital
Sascha's expert insight
Miss Sascha Dua regularly shares her clinical insight on Top Doctors to help patients understand surgical options, risks and recovery.
Breast reduction surgery and weight loss: What’s the connection?
Miss Sascha Dua discusses how body weight interacts with breast tissue composition, and how stabilising weight supports safe surgical planning and long-term aesthetic outcomes.
Best practices for breast reduction surgery: What to do and what to avoid
Miss Sascha Dua shares essential post-operative recovery guidance for breast reduction patients, detailing activity restrictions, wound care and long-term scar maturation.
Breast reduction surgery: when might it be required?
Miss Sascha Dua examines the physical symptoms and disproportionate strain caused by heavy breasts, identifying the clinical and personal indicators that suggest surgery may help.
Related treatments
Ready to speak to the clinic?
If you would like to arrange an appointment with Miss Sascha Dua, contact the clinic or send an enquiry.