Breast Reduction Surgery

Verified Reviews and Testimonials

Breast reduction surgery is a very common cosmetic surgery procedure that is highly sought after by women across the UK. 

Breast reduction surgery, also referred to as “reduction mammaplasty”, is a surgery in which excess fat, breast tissue and skin is removed from the breasts, making them smaller, more defined and uplifted.

Before & After Breast Reduction Surgery

Before After
Before After
Before After
Before After

Breast Reduction Surgery - A Quick Guide

How long do you need to stay in hospital for breast reduction surgery?
Typically 1-2 nights.

How long does breast surgery usually take?
Anywhere between 2-5 hours depending on the extent of the reduction, typically 2-3 hours.

What type of anaesthetic do I need for breast reduction surgery?
General anaesthetic is administered for this type of surgery, putting patients to sleep to ensure the procedure is pain-free.

How long does it take to recover from breast reduction surgery?
When it comes to breast reduction surgery, recovery takes anywhere between 2-6 weeks.

How much does breast reduction surgery cost?
On average it costs around £6,500, plus consultation fees and follow-up care.

Is breast reduction surgery covered by health insurance?
Not covered by health insurance.

Verified Reviews and Testimonials

Mr Adam Critchley
5.0
Based on 15 reviews
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Fiona RajeFiona Raje
10:55 11 Feb 25
From the initial consultation, through to surgery, and after care, Mr Critchley showed tremendous understanding and sensitivity. He listened to my situation and tailored his advice to my needs. I felt confident going ahead with surgery and his skill is exhibited in the results that have been achieved.
Emma WelchEmma Welch
20:15 05 Feb 25
From the first consultation Mr Critchley made me feel at ease and comfortable in discussing surgery and reasons behind it. He explained everything in detail from start to finish which made me feel 100% confident I was making the right decision to have surgery. He is extremely friendly, professional and very knowledgeable. I am 6 days post op and I already feel so much better in myself. I would highly recommend Mr Critchley to anyone wanting to undergo surgery.
Jenna BriggsJenna Briggs
07:30 04 Sep 24
I was experiencing breast pain approximately two years after a breast augmentation and after meeting with two health professionals i still didn’t feel I was being listened to or reassured. I did my research and requested an appointment with Mr Critchley. He was extremely caring, he listened to my concerns and validated my feelings. He was thorough with his explanations and very understanding. He called me for a follow up appointment and was genuinely interested in how I’ve been managing the pain conservatively. If I need any further assistance in the future or if my symptoms change I would not hesitate to contact Mr Critchley again. Thank you.
Katie GillKatie Gill
21:26 21 Aug 24
Mr Critchley has been amazing, he takes the time to explain things well and makes you feel comfortable enough to ask as many questions as you would like.He is professional and committed and even took the time to speak with me over the phone during his annual leave after my procedure to reassure me. I am extremely pleased with my results. I would highly recommend Mr Critchley!
Dawn GilroyDawn Gilroy
07:51 25 May 24
I have recently undergone a breast reduction with Mr Critchley and I am delighted with the results. He has a calm relaxed manner which puts you at ease. Everything is explained clearly to you with absolutely no pressure. A lovely professional team and I highly recommend team.
Jools StewartJools Stewart
21:55 22 Jan 24
My whole procedure was dealt with in a sensitive way. Mr Critchley gave me all the information I needed to be fully informed. I would have no hesitation in recommending him if you are looking for a breast surgeon.
Lindsay GLindsay G
20:34 03 Jan 24
I went to see Mr Critchley for some revision surgery after meeting him following a lump I had, which turned out to be a cyst on my breast. From the first time I met Mr Critchley I felt very at ease. I'd previously had breat surgery elsewhere and was unhappy with the results. Mr Critchley listened and asked me what I was unhappy with and what I was looking to change. Mr Critchley took the time to actually listen to me and talk me through all of the different options available. I never at any point felt pressured into surgery or making a decision.On the day or surgery he came to see me to explain in detail what was going to happen and reassured my husband who had many questions! Mr Critchley makes you feel very at ease and cared for, he also rung my husband aftery surgery to reassure him everything was ok which my husband was very impressed with and really appreciated.The aftercare Mr Critchley has provided has been outstanding, I can't thank him enough for the results, I'm coming up to 4 weeks post op and can't believe the change, it has been life changing.I can't recommend Mr Critchley enough and if anyone is looking to have surgery then Mr Critchley is the one to see.
Amanda MorganAmanda Morgan
19:10 13 Dec 23
From my initial consultation with Mr. Critchley I found him extremely professional, friendly and approachable. He is very personable and he put me at ease immediately at what is a very anxious time. Mr. Critchley explained with clarity every aspect of the procedure and gave me realistic expectations of what may be achieved. I was under no pressure or obligation to go ahead with the operation and was given time until my second consultation appointment to make my decision. Having contemplated the surgery for over 15 years I now had no doubt about proceeding under the care of Mr. Critchley.I am now three weeks post-op and although I do still have some swelling and bruising, the transformation is truly amazing! I know that this is going to change my life for the better.I have received excellent care from Mr. Critchley and all of his team at the Nuffield Hospital, Newcastle and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him to anyone who is considering this type of procedure in the future.Many thanks !!
Deborah SargeantDeborah Sargeant
08:10 30 Nov 23
After a complicated history of breast surgery and seeking revision surgery I researched and met Mr Critchley.From the initial consultation I felt at ease, he took the time to listen and take on board my concerns. Everything was discussed in great detail, the options, choices, expected outcome.I felt totally secure going in for surgery. On the day Mr Critchley explained everything again in detail and visited me post op and prior to my discharge.The level of care and expertise was phenomenal. The outcome of the surgery exceeds my expectation. I cannot convey the gratitude I feel.I would recommend anyone considering breast surgery to meet Mr Critchley. I have undergone surgery many times however his genuine care and compassion combined with supreme expertise makes him outstanding.
Abby EgglestonAbby Eggleston
10:26 29 Nov 23
My experience with Mr Critchley has been nothing but amazing from start to finish. My initial consultation was very informative, he made me feel very at ease and was incredibly professional. On the day of my surgery he came to see me and explained everything that would be happening, again he made me feel more relaxed and assured me everything was going to be okay as I was very nervous. The surgery went amazingly and the results are more than what I could have wished for. Mr Critchley came to see me as soon as I woke up from surgery and again the following day to make sure everything was okay. He went over aftercare and arranged my follow up appointments. During my appointment with the nurse a week later he came to see me and examined my wounds and asked me how I was feeling. Then my two week appointment was with Mr Critchley where he examined me, answered all my questions and explained more aftercare to look after my scars. Overall, I could not recommend Mr Critchley enough, he is incredibly thorough, professional and good at what he does. He has truly changed my life for the better. Thank you so much!
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Understanding Breast Reduction Surgery

If you’re considering breast reduction surgery, Adam Critchley will harness his expertise to guide you through the breast reduction size chart, as well as the pros and cons of each breast size, composition and breast shape. 

Most women undergo breast reduction surgery due to issues such as neck pain, back pain, general discomfort and/or because the weight of their breasts is causing their bra straps to dig in. In other cases, they wish to undergo surgery to feel more comfortable within themselves. Having a breast reduction can help alleviate this discomfort while making way for breasts that are more lifted and pert. 

Pre-surgery, images of your breasts will be taken to document the breast reduction before and after, and your breasts will also be measured. Discussions will then take place to gain a firm understanding of how much breast tissue you wish to have removed.

To discuss your desired size, shape and breast aesthetic with Adam, please get in touch to book an initial consultation. 

What to know when getting breast reduction surgery

How Does Breast Reduction Surgery Work?

For this type of surgery, there are three main areas of focus: unwanted fat, loose skin and excess tissue. The excess breast tissue is removed from the nipple/areola and maintained on a stalk (also referred to as a pedicle). The nipple is then lifted into a new position, and the leftover skin tissue is stitched together, leaving behind what is known as “ breast reduction scars.”

The surgery will start by the patient receiving general anaesthesia before harnessing one the following methods: 

Liposuction: Incisions are made into the skin and a thin tube attached to a vacuum removes fat and fluids from the breast. This option is better suited for reductions that are on the smaller side.

Vertical or lollipop: A vertical incision is made just below the areola and in a circle around it, creating a lollipop shaped scar. This method is effective in cases where a minimal amount of tissue removal is required.

Inverted “T” or anchor method: This method consists of an incision that resembles an anchor or upside down T, with a vertical line tracing all the way down to the areola scar and into a horizontal line under both breasts.

What Happens After the Surgery?

In terms of breast reduction recovery, each person is different and therefore their recovery will be so too. Generally speaking, it is advised that you take time off of work obligations for at least a week. Your surgeon Adam Critchley will guide you through the required follow-up appointments to remove bandages and stitches, as well as monitoring how well your breast reduction scars have healed.

It is also advised that you cease any forms of strenuous physical activity and heavy lifting for at least a month. If you have any concerns about the surgery, Adam will happily address all of these and answer any questions you have.

Your breast reduction questions answered

From how much breast reduction surgery will cost, to the duration and recovery time, find out more about this procedure through our answer guides to frequently asked questions by patients.

Breast reduction is a cosmetic procedure that is designed to make the breasts smaller and reshape them through removing excess skin tissue and fat.

While all procedures come with certain risks, breast reduction surgery is very safe. Adam is a highly experienced breast surgeon who will guide you through the potential side effects of this surgery, so you can rest assured that you are in good hands.

This type of surgery usually takes 2-3 hours, but can take longer depending on the extent of the reduction.

Breast reduction scarring depends on the method of incision. Generally speaking, the scars will look like discrete lines that are a lighter or darker shade than your natural skin tone. With Adam’s expertise, scars will be discrete. It’s worth noting that scarring will fade over time.

In the UK, the cost of this surgery can vary depending on factors such as the surgeon’s expertise, the type of implants used, and the clinic where the procedure is performed. A bilateral breast reduction with Adam Critchley starts from £9,196. For more information on the costs of Adam’s procedures, please visit our pricing page.

Breast reduction results are visible right away, however it’s worth noting that it can take some months for the breasts to fully heal and settle into their new shape post-swelling.

This depends on the individual, but it takes on average 2-6 weeks to be healed from breast reduction surgery. Adam will guide you throughout your recovery.

Typically yes, but this will depend on the methods used for the procedure. Some women who undergo this surgery may find breastfeeding more challenging. Adam Critchley and his team are on hand at all times to answer any of your queries in detail to put your mind at ease.

There are many benefits that come with having breast reduction surgery. Benefits include improved posture and relief from chronic back, shoulder and neck pain. Many patients also notice a major increase in self-esteem and comfortability in clothes that once used to cause them discomfort.

The best breast reduction surgeon UK

Consultant breast surgeon, Adam Critchley, is a leading cosmetic breast surgeon based in Newcastle, ensuring a combination of advanced expertise and personalised care for each and every patient. His patient-centred approach and commitment to safety and best practice make him a highly sought after breast surgeon for breast reduction surgery

To learn more about the procedures he offers, head to the procedures page. To book your initial consultation, get in touch today.