Breast Reduction
Relief from symptoms, improved confidence and a more proportionate figure. Free initial consultations available.
Breast reduction is one of the most functionally transformative procedures in Mr Sarakbi’s practice — relieving chronic pain, improving posture and dramatically improving quality of life. With over 900 reductions performed, he applies oncoplastic reshaping techniques that prioritise both outstanding cosmetic outcomes and long-term breast health.
Mr Will Sarakbi — Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon View breast reduction results →About breast reduction surgery
Breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) is one of the most transformative cosmetic surgical procedures. It removes excess breast tissue and skin to reduce the size and improve the shape of overly large breasts — providing relief from physical symptoms and often a significant boost in confidence and quality of life.
Mr Sarakbi has performed over 250 breast reductions and his oncoplastic training uniquely equips him for this procedure: the same techniques used in therapeutic mammoplasty (cancer surgery combined with breast reduction) are applied to achieve the best possible cosmetic result.
Who benefits from breast reduction?
Large breasts can cause a range of physical and psychological problems:
- Back, neck and shoulder pain
- Skin irritation and rashes beneath the breasts
- Difficulty exercising or engaging in physical activity
- Poor posture
- Bra strap grooves on the shoulders
- Difficulty finding well-fitting clothing
- Self-consciousness and reduced quality of life
The procedure
Surgery is performed under general anaesthetic. Breast tissue, fat and skin are removed, and the remaining tissue reshaped to achieve the desired size and contour. The nipple and areola are repositioned to an appropriate height. The most commonly used technique leaves a scar around the areola, vertically down to the fold, and along the inframammary fold (the inverted-T or anchor pattern).
The procedure typically takes around 2–2.5 hours. Many patients can go home the same day, while others stay overnight depending on clinical factors and preference.
Recovery
Most patients return to desk work in approximately 1–2 weeks (longer for physically demanding roles). Exercise and heavy lifting are restricted for 6 weeks. Scars begin to mature from around 6 weeks and continue to fade for 12–18 months.
Immediately after surgery, a supportive post-operative bra is worn to reduce swelling and support healing tissues. Your dressings and progress are reviewed at follow-up, and activity is reintroduced gradually under clinical guidance.
To discuss whether breast reduction is right for you, book a consultation.
Book a Consultation- Anaesthetic
- General
- Duration
- 2–3 hours
- Hospital stay
- 1 night
- Return to work
- 2–3 weeks
- Exercise
- 6 weeks
- Final result
- 3–6 months
NHS breast reduction is available in some cases where symptoms are severe and meet clinical criteria. Mr Sarakbi can advise on eligibility and also offers the procedure privately with prompt appointments.
Breast reduction can affect the ability to breastfeed, as milk ducts may be divided during surgery. If future breastfeeding is important to you, it is advisable to delay the procedure until after completing your family. Mr Sarakbi will discuss this fully at consultation.
The amount removed depends on your current size, your goals and anatomical considerations. Mr Sarakbi will discuss the target size with you at consultation to ensure a realistic and achievable plan.
As with all surgery, risks include bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing and scarring. Procedure-specific risks include temporary or permanent changes in nipple sensation, asymmetry, and reduced ability to breastfeed. These risks are discussed fully during consent, with advice tailored to your anatomy and goals.
About Breast Reduction
Mr Sarakbi explains what you need to know — in his own words.
Post-operative garment and recovery guidance is available in our dedicated Recovery Guides section.
View Recovery GuidesBook a consultation
Available at Cadogan Clinic, Chelsea and Shirley Oaks Hospital, Surrey. Free initial consultations.