Can I get breast reduction on the NHS?

Can I get breast enlargement on the NHS?

Do breast enlargement pills, creams and herbs work?

Question
I have had big breasts since I was young. When I was 14 I had size 34C when all my mates were just growing.

I'm 16 now and I'm fed up of having big boobs: they are 34D and I am teased about them all the time, even now at work.

I don't think I will feel comfortable unless I have a breast reduction. Can I get this on the NHS? I know I'm not as big as some girls, but it's getting me down.

Answer
Plastic surgery to have your breasts reduced in size is possible, but it is a significant operation that is not without risks, and you have to think carefully about going ahead with it.

For this reason breast reduction on the NHS will involve your GP referring you to a specialist, who will take the time to work out with you what is the best thing.

If the conclusion is that your mental health is being harmed by your breast size and would be helped by having surgery, they will go ahead and carry out the operation.

Clearly this is a major issue for you, so you should take the first step and speak to your GP about it.

Yours sincerely

Dr Bob Leckridge, GP