What are the most common types of breast surgery?

Written in association with:

Mr Harun Thomas

Surgeon

Published: 25/04/2024
Edited by: Conor Lynch


Breast surgeries encompass several categories: therapeutic purposes, diagnostic purposes, cosmetic breast surgery, reconstructive breast surgery, and oncoplastic breast surgery. This article here addresses the most common types of breast surgery that patients have available to them today, as revered consultant oncoplastic breast surgeon, Mr Harun Thomas, shares an insightful guide. 

What are the most common types of breast surgery?

One of the most common types of breast surgery is breast augmentation, which involves the placement of implants to increase the size and fullness of the breasts. This procedure is often sought by women who desire larger breasts or wish to restore volume lost due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging. Breast augmentation can also be performed to improve breast symmetry or correct congenital breast deformities.

 

Breast reduction surgery is another common procedure, particularly for women with disproportionately large breasts that may cause discomfort, pain, or interfere with physical activity. During breast reduction surgery, excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are removed to reduce the size and weight of the breasts, resulting in a more proportionate and symmetrical appearance.

 

Why is a breast lift typically performed?

Breast lift surgery, or mastopexy, is often performed to address sagging or drooping breasts caused by ageing, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss. During a breast lift, excess skin is removed, and the breast tissue is reshaped and lifted to restore a more youthful and perky appearance to the breasts.

 

In addition to cosmetic breast surgery, there are several reconstructive procedures available for women who have undergone mastectomy as part of their breast cancer treatment. Breast reconstruction surgery can be performed using implants, autologous tissue (flap reconstruction), or a combination of both to recreate a natural-looking breast mound and restore symmetry to the chest.

 

Other types of breast surgery include breast biopsy, lumpectomy (partial mastectomy), and mastectomy (total removal of the breast), which may be performed to diagnose or treat breast cancer or other breast conditions. These procedures are often part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may also include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy, depending on the individual's diagnosis and treatment goals.

 

If you wish to make an appointment with Mr Harun Thomas today, just head over to his Top Doctors profile and do just that. 

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