Can I get breast enlargement on the NHS?

Can I get breast reduction on the NHS?

Do breast enlargement pills, creams and herbs work?

Question

Can you let me know if I'm able to get breast enlargement on the NHS? My depression about my breast size is getting worse.

Every time I go to the doctor to talk about it, I feel he has no time for me and gives me depression pills, which I don't take because I know what the real problem is.

I don't let my husband touch or see them, so I never go to bed without a top and bra on. I would get a loan to pay for it, but I can't afford to because we have a little girl.

This is not an overnight desire - I've been feeling this way for 10 years. Please can you give me some advice on what I can do?

Answer

Yes, it is possible to have breast implants on the NHS, but it is not easy and it can take a long time to arrange.

The key issue is whether or not this problem is affecting your mental health, which you say it is.

The NHS will not pay for cosmetic breast enlargement (or reduction), but it will if a psychiatrist agrees that there is a substantial risk to your mental health from the problem. There should be a clear route of referral for this locally.

Ask your GP for a referral for consideration of this procedure on the NHS, on the grounds of your mental health.

Yours sincerely

Dr Bob Leckridge, GP

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