Our dedicated breast surgery FAQs page answers the most common questions about cosmetic breast surgery at our clinic in Gateshead, Newcastle. All procedures are carried out by Rob, a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, providing private cosmetic breast surgery in a regulated UK setting.

We have organised questions into clear sections to make it easy to find the information you need.

General Questions About Cosmetic Breast Surgery

Yes, when performed by a GMC registered surgeon in a CQC regulated facility, breast surgery is generally safe for suitable patients.

In the UK:

  • Surgeons must be registered with the General Medical Council
  • Clinics are inspected by the Care Quality Commission
  • Strict infection control and anaesthetic standards apply

At North East Breast Surgery in Newcastle, patient safety is always the priority, from consultation through to aftercare.

Key differences include:

  • Direct consultations with the operating surgeon
  • No sales teams
  • Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
  • Small, patient focused independent clinic
  • Honest advice with no pressure

Patients have direct access to Rob before and after surgery, which supports safety and continuity of care.

You may be a suitable candidate if:

  • You are medically fit

  • You have realistic expectations

  • You are seeking improvement, not perfection

  • You understand the recovery process

During your consultation at North East Breast Surgery, we assess your anatomy, goals, and overall health before recommending any procedure.

We are based in Gateshead, serving clients from:

  • Newcastle
  • Gateshead
  • Sunderland
  • Durham
  • Northumberland
  • The wider North East

We are proud to work with many patients who also travel from across the UK for private breast surgery.

North East Breast Surgery focuses on private cosmetic breast surgery.

Rob is an NHS breast surgeon, but cancer services are not promoted as part of the private cosmetic offering.

Post Operative Care in Newcastle

Consultation Questions

You can:

You can also begin with a free 30 minute phone consultation before booking an in person appointment.

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The first in person consultation costs £200. This is invoiced after the appointment.

Follow up appointments are included at no additional cost.

The initial 30 minute phone consultation is free.

Your consultation includes:

  • A one to one discussion about your goals
  • Medical history review
  • Physical examination
  • Discussion of suitable procedures
  • Explanation of risks and recovery
  • Transparent pricing

We provide honest advice about whether surgery is appropriate for you.

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No.

We operate a cooling off period and encourage patients to take time to consider their decision. Cosmetic breast surgery should always be carefully considered and never rushed.

Surgery & Procedure Questions

Breast enlargement surgery usually takes 1 to 2 hours under general anaesthetic.

Most patients go home the same day.

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Breast reduction surgery typically takes 2 to 3 hours depending on complexity.

It is performed under general anaesthetic in a regulated surgical facility.

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In most cases, yes.

Breastfeeding is usually possible after augmentation, depending on surgical technique and incision placement. This is discussed during consultation.

Not automatically.

Modern implants can last 10 to 20 years or longer. Replacement is only necessary if complications arise or personal preferences change.

Implant Removal

Yes, when surgery is carefully planned.

Natural results depend on:

  • Choosing the correct implant size
  • Matching implant width to chest measurements
  • Selecting the appropriate implant placement
  • Respecting your body proportions

At our breast clinic, all procedures are tailored to your anatomy to achieve balanced, proportionate results.

While overseas surgery may appear cheaper, it may involve:

  • Different regulation standards
  • Limited aftercare
  • Travel related risks
  • Difficulty accessing follow up care

Our breast surgery is performed in CQC regulated facilities with structured aftercare and direct surgeon access.

Breast surgery is performed under general anaesthetic.

This means you are fully asleep and monitored throughout by a qualified anaesthetist in a regulated UK facility.

Recovery & Aftercare Questions

Recovery depends on the procedure.

Breast augmentation:

  • Light activity within 1 to 2 weeks
  • Full exercise after around 6 weeks

Breast reduction:

  • 2 to 3 weeks before driving
  • Gradual return to full activity

Detailed guidance is provided before and after surgery.

If you experience concerns after surgery, you can contact us directly.

We provide:

  • Scheduled follow up appointments

  • Access to the surgeon

  • Ongoing recovery monitoring

Choosing a local breast surgeon ensures continuity of care and rapid access to support if needed.

Most patients can drive after 1 to 2 weeks, provided:

  • They are off strong pain medication
  • They can perform an emergency stop comfortably
  • They have good upper body mobility

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Light walking is encouraged early in recovery.

However:

  • Avoid upper body workouts for 6 weeks

  • Avoid heavy lifting initially

  • Gradually increase activity as advised

You can usually shower within a few days, depending on wound type and dressings. Specific instructions are provided before discharge.

Aftercare includes:

  • Follow up appointments
  • Direct access to the surgeon
  • Wound checks
  • Recovery guidance
  • Ongoing support

We believe proper aftercare is essential to ensure breast surgery in Newcastle is both safe and successful.

All surgery carries risks, including:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Capsular contracture
  • Implant rupture
  • Scarring

Risks are discussed clearly during consultation so you can make an informed decision.

Capsular contracture is when scar tissue around a breast implant tightens and hardens.

It can cause:

  • Firmness

  • Discomfort

  • Change in shape

It is uncommon but can occur. If it develops, treatment options include capsulectomy and implant replacement.

The Clinic & Safety Questions

Consultations and surgery take place at The Beverley Hospital and Clinic, The Edge, Fifth Avenue, Team Valley, Gateshead NE11 0XA. (Recently relocated from Independent House, Boston House, Fifth Ave, Gateshead NE11 0HF)

The facility is regulated and meets UK clinical standards.

Yes.

Rob is:

  • GMC registered
  • Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
  • An experienced NHS breast surgeon

All procedures are performed in regulated UK facilities with appropriate indemnity cover.

We do not offer in house finance. Some patients choose to use third party medical finance providers.

Transparent pricing is always provided in writing following consultation.

Next Steps

If you are researching breast surgery and still have questions, we are happy to help.

Contact us today for personalised advice.

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