If you’re considering a breast lift but your health insurance doesn’t cover it, there is still hope for you to receive the procedure for free through the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. The NHS is a healthcare system that provides free treatment to all UK residents, regardless of their income or lifestyle. This means that if you meet certain criteria, you may be eligible for a free breast lift on the NHS.
To qualify for a free breast lift on the NHS, you must meet certain criteria. Firstly, you must not have any other health issues that would prevent you from undergoing the procedure. Additionally, it must be determined that your breasts are causing you distress due to their appearance and that they are an important part of your identity. This means that the NHS will only provide free breast lifts to individuals who have a genuine need for the procedure for psychological reasons.
It’s important to note that there are some restrictions on who can receive a free breast lift on the NHS. For example, if your breasts are causing you physical discomfort or pain, you may not qualify for a free procedure. Additionally, if your breasts have changed in appearance due to weight loss or pregnancy, you may not be eligible for a free breast lift.
If you believe that you meet the criteria for a free breast lift on the NHS, it’s important to speak to your GP about your options. They will be able to assess your situation and determine whether you qualify for the procedure. If you are deemed eligible, your GP can refer you to a specialist who can provide you with more information about the process and what to expect.
In conclusion, if you’re in need of a breast lift but your health insurance doesn’t cover it, don’t lose hope. The NHS may be able to provide you with a free procedure if you meet certain criteria. Speak to your GP to discuss your options and see if you qualify for a free breast lift on the NHS.
In this article we will discuss about minimum size for breast reduction and how much is a breast reduction UK
Can I Get A Breast Lift On The Nhs
You’ll probably pay a ‘package’ price for breast uplift surgery, which includes the cost of the surgeon, anaesthetist, tests and hospital stay. The costs vary from surgeon to surgeon and clinic to clinic. Breast uplift surgery, like other types of cosmetic surgery, isn’t usually available on the NHS.
Breast uplift surgery usually takes around two to three hours to complete. Your surgeon will make several cuts on your breasts. The exact number and position of the cuts will vary, depending on the technique your surgeon uses.
Your surgeon will remove skin from around the area around your nipples (areola) and/or from under your breasts. They’ll then re-shape your breasts. Your surgeon may then re-position your nipples and reduce the size of your areola to suit the new shape.
If you’re having a breast enlargement at the same time, your surgeon will insert a breast implant. This will help to give fullness to the upper part of your breast. Your surgeon will place the implant directly under your breast tissue or behind your chest muscle.
When the operation is finished, your surgeon will close the cuts with stitches or skin-closure strips. They may wrap your breasts in a supportive dressing or use tape for support.
Aftercare for breast uplift surgery
After breast uplift surgery, you’ll need to rest until the anaesthetic has worn off. You’ll be offered pain relief to help with any discomfort you have. You may have thin tubes running out from the wound to drain excess fluid into a bag or bottle. These will be removed when the fluid or blood has stopped draining, usually before you go home.
Your nurse will give you advice about caring for your wounds before you go home, and what to do if you have problems. You’ll also get advice on how to care for your breasts, and on hygiene and showering, as well as a date for a follow-up appointment.
You’ll need someone to drive you home. Try to have someone stay with you for the first 24 hours after your operation.
The medicines used for a general anaesthetic can stay in your body for a while. Because of this, don’t drive, drink alcohol, operate machinery or make important decisions for 24 hours after your anaesthetic. Always follow your surgeon’s advice.
Recovery for breast uplift surgery
Build up your level of activity gently. You’ll probably be able to do light activities after two weeks and be back to your normal activities by six weeks. You shouldn’t have sex for two weeks after surgery. You’ll probably need at least two weeks off work after breast uplift surgery, but this depends on your job. Do not lift anything heavy for several weeks.
Do not drive until you feel safe and can wear a seatbelt comfortably. If you’re in any doubt about driving, contact your motor insurer to check that you’re covered. Always follow your surgeon’s advice about when you can get back to activities and return to work.
If you need pain relief, you can take over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine. If you have any questions, ask a pharmacist for advice.
It’s best to wear a bra with no underwiring for a few weeks after the operation. Your surgeon will probably recommend that you wear a firm dressing or support bra for a few weeks while you heal. This will help to stop the weight of your breasts pulling on your healing wounds. A sports bra may be suitable – ask your surgeon or nurse for advice.
A nurse will examine your wounds about a week after your operation. You may have skin-closure strips (sometimes called Steri-strips) instead. These are special pieces of sticky tape that hold the wound together while it heals.
It’s important to know what to look out for in case of infection. Contact your hospital or GP for advice if:
- your wound is painful
- the area around your wound feels hot and swollen
- your wound looks red or starts to form pus
- you have a high temperature (fever)
It may take several months before your breasts settle into their new shape. You may have to wear bras with a different shape or cup size. Scars will be red at first but will gradually fade over the next 12 to 18 months.
Side-effects of breast uplift surgery
Side-effects are the unwanted but mostly temporary effects many people get after having the procedure. Side-effects of breast uplift surgery include:
- soreness, swelling and bruising, which can take weeks to settle
- permanent scars that are noticeable at first, but usually fade over time
- a change in nipple sensation – it may be greater or less than before surgery
Complications of breast uplift surgery
Complications are when problems occur during or after the operation. Ask your surgeon about the chances of these affecting you.
Some complications can happen after any operation. You might develop chest problems, for instance, especially if you smoke. There’s also a risk of a blood clot, usually in a vein in the leg (deep vein thrombosis or DVT).
Complications specific to breast uplift surgery include the following.
- An infection. This may affect the way your breasts look after surgery.
- Bleeding, including blood collecting under your skin (a haematoma). This may require surgery to stop the bleeding and drain the area.
- Unusual red or raised scars (keloids or hypertrophic scars) which may be permanent.
- An uneven size or shape of your breasts may be caused by natural differences but these may be highlighted by the surgery.
- Loss of part, or all of, your nipple or other areas of your breast may be caused by changes in blood supply, which can cause body tissue to die.
- Damage to deeper structures, such as nerves, blood vessels, muscles and your lungs. This damage may be temporary or permanent.
Over time, your breasts will naturally fall again. The effects of your breast uplift surgery will not last forever. To help maintain the shape and appearance of your breasts after your uplift, keep your weight steady with a healthy diet and exercise.
How Much Is A Breast Reduction Uk
In the UK, breast reduction surgery is a popular procedure for women who suffer from physical discomfort or emotional distress due to excessively large breasts. The cost of this surgery can vary depending on the location of the clinic, the experience of the surgeon, and the specific needs of the patient. On average, the cost of breast reduction surgery in the UK is around £6,500. This price typically includes the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, hospital fees, and any necessary follow-up care.
Before undergoing breast reduction surgery, patients will usually need to attend one or more consultations with their surgeon. These consultations are an opportunity for the patient to discuss their goals and concerns, as well as for the surgeon to assess the patient’s overall health and determine the best approach for the surgery. The cost of these consultations is not typically included in the overall price of the surgery and can range from £100 to £250 per visit.
After the surgery, patients will also need to budget for any necessary follow-up care, such as post-operative appointments, dressings, and pain medication. The cost of this follow-up care can vary depending on the individual patient’s needs and recovery process. Additionally, some patients may choose to undergo additional procedures, such as liposuction or breast lift surgery, at the same time as their breast reduction surgery, which can increase the overall cost.
It is important for patients considering breast reduction surgery to carefully research their options and choose a qualified and experienced surgeon. While cost is certainly a factor to consider, it is also important to prioritize safety and quality of care when making this decision. Patients should also be aware that breast reduction surgery is typically considered a cosmetic procedure and may not be covered by insurance unless it is deemed medically necessary.
Overall, the cost of breast reduction surgery in the UK can be a significant investment, but for many women, the physical and emotional benefits of the procedure make it well worth the expense. By carefully considering all aspects of the surgery, including the financial implications, patients can make an informed decision that will ultimately improve their quality of life.
| Cost of breast reduction surgery | £6,500 |
| Cost of consultations | £100 – £250 per visit |
| Additional follow-up care | Varies depending on individual needs |
Minimum Size For Breast Reduction
Most surgeons say that your breasts don’t need to be a certain size to be a candidate for breast reduction surgery. The more important factor is whether your breast size causes physical and mental health issues.
Some of the most common symptoms that suggest you may be ready for breast reduction are:
- Breasts that are too big in proportion to the size of your body
- Shoulder, neck, and back pain caused by large breasts
- Grooves in your shoulders caused by bra straps
- Poor posture caused by breast size
- Large breasts that droop and sag, with nipples that point downward
- One breast is larger than the other
- Difficulty sleeping because of breast discomfort
- Infection and rashes under the breasts
- Difficulty exercising because of breast size
- Being self-conscious or having anxiety or depression because of breast size