Developmental size, shape and symmetry abnormalities of the breast are common and affected women frequently seek surgical correction. In the NHS, such procedures are considered aesthetic although they may also have functional effects. As such, they are subject to the Exceptional Aesthetic Referral Pathway (EARP, see Aesthetic Surgery – RefHelp ) and any indicated surgical procedures is only approved where the patient meets rigorous physical and psychological criteria and are not contraindicated on any of these measures. The availability of certain procedures on the NHS are subject to change, especially in relation to body contouring surgery.
The various surgical procedures that can be offered include:
Breast Reduction for hypermastia where patients are anticipated to need in excess of a 500g reduction on each side to achieve normal breast volume and meet EARP criteria. Unilateral breast reduction may be carried out to achieve breast symmetry. The procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic, with an overnight stay post-operatively. Patients are likely to require 2-4 weeks off work.
Breast uplift (mastopexy) is not available on the NHS unless to correct significant developmental or post reconstructive breast asymmetry.
Breast Augmentation with implants, expanders or by means of fat transfer techniques, may be performed for significant hypomastia where the inframammary fold is not apparent and in cases of significant breast asymmetry. Most often this surgery is carried out under general anaesthetic with an overnight stay. Post-operative recovery depends upon the nature of the procedure but is often more rapid than with other types of breast surgery.
M.A. & E.M-P 12-12-24
