Fiona recently had breast reduction surgery with consultant breast surgeon Adam Critchley. She has opened up to Adam and his team about her reasons for undergoing surgery, how reassured she felt after her initial consultation with Adam, and how her recovery after breast reduction surgery was seamless, and why she would highly recommend Mr Critchley’s services.
Name: Fiona R
Procedure: Breast reduction
Why did you decide to undergo breast surgery?
I had been suffering from back ache for years and also had become tired of not being able to find clothes that suited me with my big bust. In addition, throughout my life I found people talking to my breasts, particularly men. This started at school when I was nicknamed Mount Everbreast! All in all, my self confidence was undermined by my experience.
Why did you choose Adam Critchley as your breast surgeon?
I had seen a few surgeons over several years but never felt comfortable enough with them to go ahead with surgery. I realised that I really wanted someone who was a breast surgeon rather than a cosmetic surgeon, who was actively involved in treating people with breast problems specifically, undertook research and came with excellent reviews. Most importantly, I had to feel comfortable with my surgeon and feel that they cared.
How was your initial consultation with Adam Critchley?
I was nervous because I had had a very poor experience with a previous surgeon some years before. However, Mr Critchley immediately put me at ease by looking me in the eye, coming across as relaxed but interested. He listened and understood my problems. He was patient-centred and focused on how he could practically approach my surgery and after care.
What was your experience like on the day of surgery with Adam Critchley and his team?
Mr Critchley and his team were empathetic and clear about what was going to happen. I felt very nervous and this increased over several hours as I waited to go to theatre. But all my interactions with his team were positive.
How was the recovery after your surgery?
I still can’t get over how well I felt immediately after surgery. I had little pain or discomfort on the day and went home knowing I had done the right thing. I had a minor issue during my first few weeks of recovery but Mr Critchley was very reassuring when I saw him, so I felt my after care was excellent. I am now about 12 weeks post-surgery and have absolutely no issues. I am just having to adjust to feeling like a different person!
What advice would you give to someone else considering breast surgery?
To me, it is very important that your surgeon is skilled which is demonstrated by their reviews, their day to day work activity and how you feel when you meet them.
If you decide to go ahead with surgery, you need to know that you will be looked after and this is evidenced by the rapport and relationship you feel you have developed with the surgeon during your initial consultation.
Having had an extremely challenging consultation with another surgeon previously, I really recommend that you choose someone you are comfortable with. Mr Critchley was exactly that person for me.