Important Information On Using This Service
- Ergsy carefully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
- Videos shown by YouTube after a video has completed have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
- To view, click the arrow in the center of the video.
Using Subtitles and Closed Captions
- Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
- You may need to turn these on and choose your preferred language.
Turn Captions On or Off
- Go to the video you'd like to watch.
- If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
- To turn on captions, click settings.
- To turn off captions, click settings again.
Find A Professional
More Items From Ergsy search
-
Evidence-Based Interventions: haemorrhoid surgery
Relevance: 100%
-
Evidence-Based Interventions: snoring surgery in the absence of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)
Relevance: 97%
-
Evidence-Based Interventions: grommets for glue ear in children
Relevance: 78%
-
Evidence-Based Interventions: tonsillectomy for recurrent tonsillitis surgery
Relevance: 77%
-
Evidence-Based Interventions: breast reduction
Relevance: 77%
-
Evidence-Based Interventions: injections for non-specific low back pain without sciatica
Relevance: 75%
-
SLaM's Suicide Prevention, Learning and Support Strategy
Relevance: 74%
-
Current Challenges in Youth Mental Health Services
Relevance: 60%
-
NHS RightCare Scenario: Sepsis
Relevance: 58%
-
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) for Children and Young People
Relevance: 58%
-
My baby has a hearing loss - what next?
Relevance: 53%
-
FASD Foetal alcohol
Relevance: 51%
-
Childhood dyspraxia: James' story | NHS
Relevance: 51%
-
Newcastle Specialist Continence Service's Light Urinary Incontinence Project
Relevance: 50%
-
AAA (Abdominal aortic aneurysm) screening
Relevance: 43%
-
Autism: Graeme's story | NHS
Relevance: 43%
-
Giving Voice - Stammer and Fluency Problems
Relevance: 40%
-
Autism Assessment - What Happens in Your Appointment
Relevance: 40%
-
Living with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), a mum’s journey (full version)
Relevance: 39%
-
Survivor of an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm rupture appeals for men to take up NHS Screening Programme.
Relevance: 38%
-
Live Fear Free - The Effect of Domestic Abuse on Children
Relevance: 38%
-
The NHS Long Term Plan for learning disability and autism
Relevance: 36%
-
Stammering myth 4: You should ignore a child's stammer
Relevance: 36%
-
Frozen Shoulder Lateral Rotation
Relevance: 36%
-
Swallowing awareness - dysphagia
Relevance: 34%
-
Down's syndrome: Emily's story | NHS
Relevance: 34%
-
Profound intellectual and multiple disabilities | NHS
Relevance: 33%
-
Sepsis - a patient story
Relevance: 32%
-
Dyslexia, Dyspraxia & Overlapping Learning Difficulties
Relevance: 32%
-
NHS Forth Valley’s Stroke Team
Relevance: 32%
-
Dorothy's Story (Falls/Chest Infection)
Relevance: 31%
-
The Delirium Question on Patientrack
Relevance: 31%
-
Self Harm
Relevance: 31%
-
The treatment approach for an eating disorder
Relevance: 28%
-
Stroke - Speech and Language Therapist's Experience
Relevance: 28%
-
Children With Co-ordination Difficulties and Dyspraxia
Relevance: 28%
-
Dyspraxia Children: How to Help
Relevance: 28%
-
Glue Ear Pathway
Relevance: 27%
-
Having a child with Edwards' syndrome (trisomy 18) | NHS
Relevance: 26%
-
Parkinson’s Disease and NHS RightCare: Long Term Condition Scenario
Relevance: 25%
Evidence-Based Interventions: Breast Reduction
Introduction to Breast Reduction
Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at decreasing the size of excessively large breasts. In the United Kingdom, it is both a functional and cosmetic option, providing relief from physical discomfort and emotional distress associated with large breasts. This intervention often involves the removal of excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with the patient's body.
Medical Benefits and Risks
Medical professionals advocate for breast reduction surgeries due to the substantial health benefits. Relief from chronic pain in the back, neck, and shoulders, reduction of skin irritation under the breasts, and improved ability to participate in physical activities are some of the documented advantages. However, the surgery also comes with risks such as infection, bleeding, and potential complications with anesthesia. It is crucial for patients to discuss these risks with their healthcare provider to make a well-informed decision.
Criteria for NHS Coverage
In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) may cover breast reduction surgery if it is deemed medically necessary. Criteria typically include physical symptoms like back, neck, and shoulder pain, or skin infections caused by oversized breasts. Psychological distress and disproportional body ratios may also be considered. Patients often undergo an assessment process where each case is evaluated on an individual basis to qualify for NHS funding.
Post-Operative Care and Recovery
Post-operative care is critical for a successful recovery. Patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous activities for several weeks and to wear a support bra to minimize swelling and support the breasts as they heal. Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor progress, and adherence to the surgeon's advice is crucial for optimal results. Whilst recovery experiences vary, most patients report significant improvements in their quality of life.
Conclusion
Breast reduction surgery is a well-established, evidence-based intervention with substantial benefits for those suffering from the physical and emotional burdens of excessively large breasts. With careful consideration of medical advice, risks, and NHS eligibility, many individuals in the UK can find relief and improved quality of life through this procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a breast reduction?
Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove excess breast tissue and skin to reduce the size and weight of the breasts.
Who is a good candidate for breast reduction surgery?
Good candidates are individuals who experience physical discomfort or emotional distress due to large breasts, have realistic expectations, and are in good general health.
What are the benefits of breast reduction?
Benefits include relief from back, neck, and shoulder pain, improved posture, enhanced ability to participate in physical activities, and a more proportionate body shape.
How is a breast reduction performed?
The procedure typically involves general anaesthesia. Surgeons make incisions, remove excess breast tissue and skin, reshape the breast, and reposition the nipple and areola.
What is the recovery time for breast reduction surgery?
Recovery time varies but most patients can return to work within 2-3 weeks. Full recovery, including the resolution of swelling and bruising, can take several months.
Are there any risks associated with breast reduction surgery?
As with any surgery, there are risks including infection, bleeding, scarring, changes in nipple sensation, and asymmetry. Discussing these with your surgeon is important.
Will a breast reduction affect my ability to breastfeed?
Breast reduction can impact breastfeeding ability, but many women retain the ability to breastfeed. Discuss your concerns with your surgeon beforehand.
How much does breast reduction surgery cost in the UK?
The cost varies depending on the surgeon and location, typically ranging from £5,000 to £6,500. Be sure to inquire about what the fee includes.
Is breast reduction covered by the NHS?
Breast reduction may be covered by the NHS if deemed medically necessary, such as for alleviating severe pain or physical complications. Criteria and approval processes vary by region.
How do I prepare for a breast reduction procedure?
Preparation involves a pre-surgery consultation, stopping certain medications, arranging transportation home post-surgery, and planning for recovery time.
What type of anaesthesia is used during breast reduction surgery?
Breast reduction is typically performed under general anaesthesia to ensure the patient is completely unconscious during the procedure.
What can I expect during the consultation with the surgeon?
During the consultation, your surgeon will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, discuss your goals and expectations, and explain the procedure, risks, and benefits.
What kind of scar should I expect after breast reduction surgery?
Scarring will depend on the technique used but typically includes scars around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and sometimes horizontally along the breast crease.
Can I combine breast reduction with other procedures?
Yes, breast reduction can be combined with other procedures like a breast lift or liposuction. Consult with your surgeon to discuss the potential for combination procedures.
How do I choose a qualified surgeon for breast reduction?
Choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast reduction. Check their qualifications, reviews, before-and-after photos, and ensure you feel comfortable with them during your consultation.
Useful Links
This video also appears in these sectionsdiagnosis
Have you found an error, or do you have a link or some information you would like to share? Please let us know using the form below.
- Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
- Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
- To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
- Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
- You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
- Go to the video you'd like to watch.
- If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
- To turn on Captions, click settings .
- To turn off Captions, click settings again.