Breast Reduction Surgery in Leeds & Yorkshire
About the procedure
What is Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction surgery reduces the size of the breast via a scar that is is either “anchor shaped” or “vertical”. There are different ways to reduce the breasts which all have an impact on nipple sensation and the ability to breast feed. We can discuss these options and together choose the best one for you. I often use the R-reduction technique that uses internal stitches to maximise breast projection and cleavage definition, whilst simultaneously offering a better long term result.
Who is Breast Reduction for?
Procedure Overview.
Procedure Time
3-4 hours.
Hospital Time
1 night.
Work Off Time
2 weeks.
No Gym For
2-3 weeks.
No Driving
5-7 days.
Bra Required
6 weeks.
Follow Up
1,2,6,12 week.
The Consultation.
Your consultation will consist of a full medical history and examination. You will have photos taken. I will show you a presentation of results and scars that are to be expected as well as the risks of the surgery. All patients receive a comprehensive letter with supplementary information leaflets to inform and guide you. If you decide to proceed to surgery we will have another consultation, included in your price, to go through the procedure in more detail and answer any questions.
The Planning.
The surgery planning is based on your breast measurements and your desired cup size. Any size discrepancy is also determined and nipple asymmetry measured to ensure any differences are treated at the same time. We will determine the various techniques available to you and scar position to maximise your result. If you are over 40 you may require a mammogram prior to surgery.
This is a good opportunity for a friend to come for support. We advise no holiday abroad within two months of surgery.
The Procedure.
The surgery is performed under general anaesthetic in a fully operational hospital facility. Most people have an overnight stay to ensure they are comfortable and pain free and ready for home. We do not use any drains, and no padded dressings. We use a specialist glue dressing to allow you to shower immediately after surgery.
The Aftercare.
You will be seen by the Spire specialist nursing team at one week and then by me at 2 weeks for your glue removal and wound check. Further follow up is directed by your recovery and included in your price. Most patients can be happily discharged at 3 months.
Patient reviews
Patient Reviews
5.0
from 88 verified reviews
iWantGreatCare Certificate of Excellence 2025
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Patient Reviews
I am absolutely thrilled and delighted with the results of my breast reduction surgery, I couldn’t have wished for better care and a better surgeon than Mr Holmes. Everything was explained thoroughly and I felt informed, reassured and at ease during the whole process. I felt I could talk openly and no question I asked was deemed silly, or brushed off. The follow up care has been excellent. I honestly cannot praise the whole team who looked after me. I have already recommended Mr Holmes to friends and family interested in similar procedures and I would certainly return to Mr Holmes for any future needs without hesitation.
My approach
Procedure risks.
Immediate Risks.
- Infection requiring antibiotics
- Bleeding requiring a return to theatre
- Delayed wound healing needing dressings for up to 10 weeks
- Seroma – fluid build up that causes swelling
- T-Juncton wound breakdown
- Nipple loss/ sensory changes – this is rare
- Fat necrosis: hard lumps felt in the breast following surgery
Early Risks.
- Visible pink scar
- Stretched lumpy scars
- Residual fat in flanks under arms
- Asymmetry of breasts and nipples
Late Risks.
- Recurrence of large breasts due to weight changes and ageing
- Reduced or inability ability to breast-feed
- Sagging of breasts with age
Interested in a Consultation?
If you are interested to learn more, and would like to come for a face-to-face or virtual chat, please send me and my team a message, and we can get in touch to arrange your consultation.
Breast Reduction FAQs.
How long does breast reduction surgery take?.
Breast reduction typically takes 2–3 hours under general anaesthetic, depending on the technique used.
Will breast reduction leave scars?.
All breast reduction surgery involves scars. Mr Holmes uses techniques designed to minimise scarring. Scars are permanent but typically fade significantly over 12–18 months.
Can I still breastfeed after breast reduction?.
Breastfeeding after breast reduction is possible in many cases but cannot be guaranteed. This is covered thoroughly at your pre-operative consultation.
How much can breast reduction reduce breast size by?.
The amount of reduction is tailored entirely to your anatomy and goals. The expected result is discussed in detail at consultation.
Is breast reduction available on the NHS?.
NHS criteria for breast reduction are strict and based on functional symptoms such as back pain and skin problems. Mr Holmes offers private breast reduction for patients who do not meet NHS thresholds or who prefer not to wait.
Where is breast reduction surgery performed in Leeds?.
Surgery is performed at Spire Methley Park Hospital, Leeds (LS26 9HG). Consultations are also available at Coppergate Clinic, York (YO1 9NR).
Breast Reduction in Leeds, York & Yorkshire.
Mr Will JM Holmes performs breast reduction surgery at Spire Methley Park Hospital, Leeds (LS26 9HG) and consults at Coppergate Clinic, York (YO1 9NR). Patients travel from across Yorkshire — including Harrogate, Wakefield, Bradford, Hull and Sheffield — to consult with Mr Holmes.
As a full-time NHS Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust and a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons (FRCS Plast), Mr Holmes brings a level of training and experience rarely found in private-only practice. He is registered with BAPRAS, BAAPS and PHIN, and holds a 5.0★ rating across 88 patient reviews on iWantGreatCare.
- Breast surgery Leeds — Spire Methley Park Hospital, LS26 9HG
- Breast surgery York — Coppergate Clinic, YO1 9NR
- Patients from Harrogate, Wakefield, Bradford, Hull & Sheffield welcome
To book a consultation, call 01134 601796 or use the contact form below.
Breast Reduction near you.
Mr Holmes sees patients from across Yorkshire. Choose your area for clinic locations, travel details and local FAQs.
