Types of breast surgery
Breast surgery is offered as a treatment to patients with breast cancer as well as being used for reconstructive or cosmetic surgery.
As a treatment for breast cancer there are two main types of surgery that are conducted: a mastectomy or breast lump removal (lumpectomy). During a mastectomy, most of the breast is removed in order to get rid of all cancerous tissue. A lumpectomy is performed to remove a lump in order to check for signs of cancer. Your oncologist will be able to guide you on the best option for your condition.
Reconstructive surgery is provided to patients who have undergone either a mastectomy or lumpectomy. This can be conducted at the same time as the original surgery or at a later date, which your surgeon will discuss with you.
For cosmetic surgery, our consultants offer three breast surgery treatments: breast enlargement, breast lift and breast reduction.
Our breast surgery expertise
These are some of the treatments our breast surgeons carry out.
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Breast enlargement
Need to know
Breast enlargement is a common type of cosmetic surgery where silicone or saline implants are inserted to increase breast size, make them more even or change their shape. The implants are placed either between the breast tissue and chest muscle, or behind the muscle.
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Breast lift
Need to know
Breasts can sag over time due to ageing, weight loss, pregnancy or breastfeeding. This is because the fibrous bands that support the breast stretch and break down. Breast lift surgery, which is also known as a mastopexy, can help to reshape the breasts into a more youthful, firmer shape.
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Breast reconstruction
Need to know
Breast reconstruction is usually offered to all women who've had a lump, or one or both breasts removed due to breast cancer. The timing of the surgery depends on how early your breast cancer is detected and treated. It can either happen at the same time as your breast removal or a later date.
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Breast reduction
Need to know
If you feel your breasts are too big, it can be difficult to live with and affect your confidence. It can limit the clothes you can wear and the sports you do, along with causing shoulder and back pain. Breast reduction is a straightforward operation to remove breast tissue to decrease breast size....
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Mastectomy
Need to know
A mastectomy is mostly used to treat breast cancer. There are several different types of mastectomy —your consultant will advise you which is right for you. During the operation, all cancerous tissue is removed from the breast. This is to decrease the risk of the cancer growing back and spreading.
Find a breast consultant
Our locations
From complex breast and oncoplastic surgery to screening and diagnostic procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Breast Unit at The Wellington Hospital
Platinum Medical Centre, The Breast Care Unit
15-17 Lodge Road
London NW8 7JA
Contact us about breast care appointments
Our helpline advisors can assist with enquiries about booking an appointment with a breast specialist.