Breast Reduction

Leading Breast Reduction surgery in Edinburgh with Quaba…

Breast reduction surgery may be suitable for women with large breasts that affect their posture and self-confidence.

Call us in confidence on 0131 346 0020 to discuss the options

Breast reduction surgery carries one of the highest satisfaction rates of any cosmetic procedure. It can help improve physical symptoms such as neck/ back pain, shoulder grooving and difficulty exercising and finding suitable clothing. Additionally, most women considering breast reduction feel self-conscious about their breasts, and many do not like unwanted attention.

Find out more about our Breast Reduction procedure below…

Essentials

Breast Reduction

Type of Anaesthetic

General

Length of Surgery

3 hours

Nights in Hospital

1-2

Recovery

1-2 weeks off work, 6 weeks before strenuous exercise

Arrange Consultation

Quaba breast reduction surgery procedures

What types of breast reduction are available?

There are many different techniques to reduce a breast. All methods involve three basic principles:

Moving the nipple-areola to a higher position
Removing excess breast tissue
Removal of skin to tighten the breast

The resultant scars following breast reduction surgery can either be “lollipop” (vertical) or “anchor” shaped in nature:

Vertical scar breast reduction

With a vertical scar reduction/ lift, the scar is described as a lollipop scar – around the nipple and vertically down below it towards the breast crease. This technique can be used for moderate breast reductions.

Anchor shaped breast reduction

An anchor-shaped reduction is the most common type of reduction in our practice. The scars are around the nipple, vertically and along the breast crease. This type of procedure allows for the correction of significant breast enlargement and droopiness and can give the most consistent results.

Please take the time to read more about the process below…

Commonly asked questions on breast reduction

What is the best age to have a breast reduction?Quaba Plastic Surgery2019-05-20T22:18:27+00:00

What is the best age to have a breast reduction?

Women of any age can have a breast reduction, if they are suitable, and feel that their symptoms are significantly affecting their lives. Most breasts are fully mature by the time you have reached 18 years of age. It is not uncommon to perform the procedure in younger women who have not had children. Many choose to have the operation later in life after completing their families. It is not unusual for older women who have had surgery, to say that they wished they had had the operation years ago.

Will a breast reduction lift my nipples and breast as well?Quaba Plastic Surgery2019-05-20T22:19:41+00:00

Will a breast reduction lift my nipples and breast as well?

All breast reduction surgery involves an uplift and reshaping procedure to raise the height of the nipple and give a better shape to the breast. The operation can also be used to improve breast asymmetry when an overall reduction in size is desired. There are a large number of techniques available and these need to be tailored to your individual needs.

What if I am overweight?Quaba Plastic Surgery2019-05-20T22:36:00+00:00

What if I am overweight?

You can expect better cosmetic results and fewer complications if you are at or near your ideal body weight. We do operate on women who are overweight as long as they understand the limitations. For some women, exercise is a problem with large breasts, and they find it easier to exercise and lose weight after the procedure.

Is breast reduction a long procedure?Quaba Plastic Surgery2019-05-20T22:43:46+00:00

Is breast reduction a long procedure?

Breast reduction surgery is a significant surgical operation, often taking 2-3 hours. It is essential that patients are aware of the potential complications and the surgical scars involved.

What about pregnancy and breastfeeding?Quaba Plastic Surgery2019-05-20T22:48:24+00:00

What about pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Breast reduction may be carried out before or after pregnancy. Some studies have suggested that the ability to breastfeed is similar in women who have had breast reductions compared to those who have not. You do, however, need to be prepared for the fact that you might not be able to breastfeed after breast reduction surgery.

How long do breast reduction scars take to settle down?Quaba Plastic Surgery2019-05-20T23:43:54+00:00

How long do breast reduction scars take to settle down?

The main downside to breast reduction surgery is the fact that it leaves scars. Most women are well prepared for scarring as they have researched the procedure beforehand and will have been shown several before and after photos. Scars can take up to 18 months to fully mature, sometimes longer. Most before and after photos show results at around six months when the scars can still be quite red. You can expect significant improvement and fading of the colour beyond six months, and there is considerable variability between patients.

How do you move the nipples up, do you have to detach them?Quaba Plastic Surgery2019-05-20T23:45:36+00:00

How do you move the nipples up, do you have to detach them?

To move the nipples up to a higher position on the breast, a cut is made around them. The areola is reduced in size as it has usually been stretched. The nipple remains attached to the underlying breast tissue so that it can keep a blood supply. It is the underlying breast tissue that is repositioned with the nipple attached to it so that it can sit at a higher position on the breast.

What is the recovery like?Quaba Plastic Surgery2019-05-20T23:47:37+00:00

What is the recovery like?

You will spend 1-2 nights in the hospital. You will be seen in the dressing clinic one week after surgery and then a few days later to have stitches removed. You should take at least 1-2 weeks off work to rest. The wounds should be fully healed by two weeks, but small areas of delayed healing are common so that full healing can take longer. Light exercise can usually be resumed at four weeks, and you should be fully recovered by six weeks.

How long will it take for my breast shape to settle?Quaba Plastic Surgery2019-05-20T23:48:41+00:00

How long will it take for my breast shape to settle?

Initially, your breasts will be tight and can look a little “boxy” in shape. By six months they will look much more rounded and will continue to improve in form for up to 18 months.

What are the risks?

Breast reduction surgery is carried out under general anaesthesia with two nights booked in hospital. The risks of general anaesthesia include clots to the legs (deep vein thrombosis) and lungs (pulmonary embolus), and we take precautions to minimise the risk of these. Other risks include chest infection, and the risk of a severe life-threatening complication is approximately 1 in 100,000.

The risks of breast reduction surgery include:

Bleeding – Which may require a return to the theatre (less than 1 in 20 patients).

Infection – Uncommon and usually settles with antibiotics.

Delayed wound healing – Not uncommon – especially small areas at the “T junction” of the scars.

Fat necrosis– This is a rare complication where some of the breast fat does not survive and can look like an infection. It can take several weeks to resolve and may result in a contour defect.

Changes in nipple sensitivity – This is an expected outcome – nipples can sometimes be more sensitive or less sensitive, and sensitivity will change over time.

Nipple loss – exceedingly rare complication – higher risk in smokers and very large reductions.

Breastfeeding – The possibility of reduced ability to breastfeed although several studies show women who have had breast reduction are just as likely to be able to breastfeed as those who have not had breast reduction surgery.

Asymmetry – Minor residual asymmetry is not uncommon – breasts are rarely perfectly symmetrical.

Scarring – Scars are permanent and may be unpredictable and red for some time – most women rarely complain about the nature of scars following breast reduction – scars usually stretch over time and fade in colour. You were shown several images highlighting the full extent of the scarring.

Under or over correction – Removing too much or too little breast tissue – final size can never be guaranteed – patients rarely ever mention that they feel too much tissue has been removed.

Revision – A small number of patients (less than 1 in 20) may require some minor revision which can usually be performed under local anaesthetic.

What to expect

Discomfort/ Pain

Some discomfort is typical in the first few days after surgery. You may experience some numbness of your nipples and incision areas. You may experience temporary soreness, tightness, swelling and bruising as well as some discomfort in the incision areas. Your breasts may be sensitive to stimulation for a few weeks.

Bruising/ swelling

Your breasts may feel tight and swollen for several days, and bruising is not uncommon.

Appearance

Most of the discolouration and swelling will subside in 4-6 weeks.

Scars may be red and angry looking for six months. In time, these usually soften and fade.

You may be up and about in 2 days, but it will be a few weeks before you are entirely up to speed.

Your mood may fluctuate after surgery – this is normal. A small amount of blood staining on the inside of your dressings is typical during the first few days.

Your final breast shape will not become apparent for six months.

Breast reduction aftercare

Quaba Breast Reduction Aftercare…

Before you leave the hospitalQuaba Plastic Surgery2019-05-23T22:23:19+00:00

Before you leave the hospital

Medications – You will be provided with simple painkillers before discharge.

Change of dressings – Your dressings should be left intact until your first postoperative visit.

Follow up appointments for dressing clinics – You will be handed a card with details of your first follow up appointment and contact details for the ward should you have any concerns once you get home.

Post-surgical bras

Please view the following page for advice on support/ post-surgical bras: post-surgical bras

Breast reduction instructionsQuaba Plastic Surgery2019-05-21T19:22:38+00:00

Breast reduction instructions

Have someone drive you home after surgery.

Get plenty of rest.

Start walking as soon as possible; this helps to reduce swelling and lowers the chance of blood clots.

Follow a balanced diet. Decreased activity may promote constipation so you may wish to add more raw fruit and fibre to your diet. Make sure you increase fluid intake.

Take pain medication as prescribed. Do not take aspirin or any products containing aspirin unless approved by your surgeon.

Avoid smoking for at least two weeks, as smoking delays healing and increase the risk of complications.

Avoid alcohol when taking pain medications. Even if you are not taking pain medications, it is advisable to avoid alcohol for three weeks as it can cause fluid retention, which may worsen swelling.

When can I go back to work after breast reduction?Quaba Plastic Surgery2019-05-21T19:23:46+00:00

When can I go back to work after breast reduction?

Return to work will depend on your recovery and your job requirements. We advise patients to take two weeks off work, but it will vary from individual to individual.

Activities after breast reductionQuaba Plastic Surgery2019-05-21T23:24:47+00:00

Activities after breast reduction

Showering/ bathing – You may bathe once you are home but try not to soak your dressings.

Sleeping position – Sleep comfortably on two or three pillows. You do not need to sleep propped upright. Avoid sleeping on your tummy for at least three weeks.

Clothing – Wear clothing that is easy to remove and avoid tight tops. Wear a support bra – further information

Driving – We recommend not driving for at least 4-5 days after your surgery as you may be on pain medication.

Exercise – For the first two days, keep your arm movements to a minimum. Your arms should not be used to support your body or lift anything substantial. Do not push your arms to lift yourself in bed. Avoid strenuous activities or any activity that increases your blood pressure for 3-4 weeks. Contact sports should be avoided for at least two months.

Wound careQuaba Plastic Surgery2019-05-21T21:57:47+00:00

Wound care

Showering – You may shower when you get home. Take care not to soak your dressings.

Follow upQuaba Plastic Surgery2019-05-21T21:57:35+00:00

Follow up

Weeks 1-3 after your operation – You will attend a specialist nurse clinic to have your dressing changed and sutures removed. You will usually be seen 2-3 times over this period. The nurses will provide you will silicone tapes to help your scars mature.

Six months – You will be asked to arrange a follow-up appointment with your surgeon at six months to discuss the outcome of your surgery and any concerns you may have.

Please note – Some of our patients will get in touch before their six months follow up appointment, and we are often able to address any concerns you may have over the phone or via email. You are welcome to make an appointment (at no cost to you) before your six months follow up if you wish to be seen in person to discuss any issues.

Scar managementQuaba Plastic Surgery2019-05-23T22:43:28+00:00

Scar management

Healing is a gradual process, and your scars may remain slightly pink for up to 12 months.

You should start gently massaging your scars from 2-3 weeks after surgery.

Avoid exposing scars to direct sun for 3-4 months.

Always use a strong sunblock, if sun exposure is unavoidable (SPF 30 or higher).

When to callQuaba Plastic Surgery2019-05-21T21:54:38+00:00

When to call

If you have increased swelling or bruising which is not settling.

If you notice swelling of one/ both of your legs or feel short of breath – this may indicate a clot in one of your veins/ lungs – Deep vein thrombosis/ Pulmonary embolism.

If you have increased redness along the incision (this may be a sign of infection).

If you have severe or increased pain not relieved by medication.

If you have any side effects to medications; such as, rash, nausea, headache, vomiting.

If you have a temperature over 38 degrees Celsius.

If you have any yellowish or greenish discharge from the incisions.

If you have bleeding from the incisions that is difficult to control with light pressure.

If concerned, please call Beechwood House on 0131 316259 between the hours of 8am-8pm or after that on 0131 334 0363.

Before & after gallery

Breast Reduction Before & After Gallery

How much does it cost?

Breast reduction from £6500

Consultation £150

All-inclusive costs for one year following surgery

Customer stories

Independent reviews of breast reduction surgery with us:

carolinem97

suzijackson

Integrity and attention to detail are our key elements for the provision of successful cosmetic surgery

Your care is led by Consultant Plastic Surgeons and is Hospital-Based.

Call us in confidence on 0131 342 0020 to discuss the options

Arrange a consultation

What our patients have to say...

Feedback is from external review sites such as Google and RealSelf

Breast reduction/ lift – Incredible Dr, incredible outcome. Best decision I’ve ever made
I first contacted Dr Omar Quaba when I was looking into breast reduction surgery. From the initial consultation, I knew I was in safe hands. What I liked best, was that Dr Quaba didn’t rush me into making any decisions. He wanted to ensure I fully understood the risks, and also for me to see the scarring that would occur. This was done using a portfolio so I could see first hand what to expect. My surgery was discussed in depth, with Dr Quaba listening to my thoughts whilst being realistic about the outcome. I would highly recommend Dr Quaba and if I needed anything in the future, he would absolutely be my first port of call.

Adee87, Realself Feb 2019

Breast Reduction/ lift – An A experience with great results and a fantastic surgeon
If you are thinking about this….. do it! I wish I had had my breast reduction years ago. Omar Quaba will reassure you, explain everything and answer any questions you have. He is an amazing surgeon and very kind and approachable. I would recommend him for any plastic surgery, I have fantastic results and I am so happy with the result. It has made a huge difference to my life.

Suzi Jackson, Realself Jan 2019

Breast reduction/ lift – First class experience
After considering breast reduction surgery for many years, I decided in 2017 to take the plunge. After a colleague recommend Quaba Plastic Surgery, I booked a consultation with Omar Quaba and never looked back. From the first consultation, Omar made me feel at complete ease, which wasn’t an easy job as I was a nervous wreck and explained the entire process in full and frank detail to ensure I had all the facts before making my decision. My reduction was to be a significant one, I was a 34JJ, and Omar made sure I left that consultation with realistic expectations of the possible result of the surgery and the recovery process. I had a lot to think about, however I was convinced leaving the surgery that day that should I go ahead with the surgery Omar Quaba was the surgeon I wanted to do it as I had never felt as comfortable talking about the negative effects my large breast were causing me, having spent years making jokes about them, and to be honest that was the deal breaker for me. From the moment I arrived at the hospital every single member of the team where outstanding, they made sure I was comfortable, explained the process step by step and quickly realised humour was my coping mechanism so we had a few laughs along the way. The Aftercare was exceptional and the result of the surgery was amazing, so far beyond my expectations, I was actually a little overwhelmed and absolutely delighted with my new 34F’s. I can not recommend Omar Quaba and his team more highly, true professionals in every sense.

CMeridith, Realself Nov 2018

Breast reduction/ lift – Fabulous!!!!!
I had an amazing experience with Dr Quaba and the team. From the first consultation appointment he put my mind at ease going through the procedure and showing me his previous work. Can’t believe how much it’s changed my life. I’d 100% recommended having it done if you feel it’s getting you down and your generally uncomfortable.

Gillianbkair74, Realself Sep 2019

Breast reduction/ lift – Best thing I’ve ever done. It has changed my life in so many ways
My whole experience from start to finish was fantastic. From the first consultation in dec 2018, Omar was so friendly, and made me feel so relaxed and reassured. We went through everything in detail, looked at before and after pics and gave me very realistic expectations.
I then spoke with the girls in the office who were so lovely, and got booked in for 23/2/19.
The day of my surgery, I was nervous but everyone in Spire hospital were amazing. There was no waiting around, and they kept me informed at every stage.
The surgery itself went so well. I had never even been in hospital before so was worried about the anesthetic and pain, but i shouldn’t have worried. Everyone is different, but I felt fine. The nurses checked on me through the night, kept my painkillers topped up and I didn’t feel any pain whatsoever.
I was able to get up and showered in the morning and they said if I wanted to stay the second night I could but I was well enough to get home after Omar visited me to check I was okay.
I had a couple of small issues following surgery, but it was due to an allergic reaction and a small bit of delayed healing, but through all this the nurses at spire saw me every few days, and Omar came to see me twice.
I took almost 4 weeks off work and was fully healed in around 6-8weeks.
The aftercare was second to none, and I can’t thank everyone enough for the treatment I received. It has changed my life in so many ways, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome.

Katy91, Realself Sep 2019

Breast reduction/ lift – I Was Very Pleased with my Decision to See Me Quaba
Mr Quaba was very helpful and understood that I was a little nervous. However he answered all of my questions and put me at ease. He made sure that I was certain about my decision to have the surgery before concluding our appointment.

LJRobertson, Realself Feb 2019

Breast reduction/ lift – Amazing Results!
Mr Quaba performed my breast reduction surgery in July 2018. I could not be happier with the outcome and the amazing job that was done. Since the surgery I have been so much more comfortable daily and whilst taking part in exercise. Mr Quaba put me at ease throughout the initial consultation and the day of surgery. At my six month check up he showed me the before pictures and I could not believe the difference. I would recommend Mr Quaba to anyone looking to have this procedure done.

Carolinem97, Realself Jan 2019

Breast reduction/ lift – I Had a Warm and Amazing Experience
My experience was very pleasant every step of the way with adequate care and attention from the surgeon. The whole process was straight forward and exactly to expectation. I would highly recommend Mr Omar.

Yemmies, Realself Oct 2018

Breast reduction/ lift – Great Experience and Results
Breast reduction is something I have thought about for many years. My worries about existing health concerns, felling self conscious about showing someone and concerns about being pressured into surgery put me off consulting with anyone despite reaserching hospitals and surgeons.
Dr Quaba was recommended by a family member and I found him to have a calm, respectful and reassuring manner he was extremely professional and knowledgable. He spent time to discuss the benefits and all the risks involved in surgery taking into account my existing health conditions and at no time did I feel any pressure to commit to having the surgery. I was able to arrange a second consultation where I could bring my husband along.
My hospital stay was first class and I am extremely happy with the end results.

EvelynWatt, Realself Oct 2018

Breast lift – Delighted with Results!
Excellent treatment from start to finish by Mr Quaba, discussed procedure fully at initial appointments and advised options taking in my own opinions, managed expectations on results which were even better than I hoped! I didn’t want implants so Mr Quaba respected this and suggested a fat transfer which worked well! Required minor revision surgery which was carried out no with no issues.

Rosielily1, Realself Nov 2018