ABOUT
Award-winning Consultant Oncoplastic and Cosmetic Breast Surgeon in Newcastle upon Tyne and Gateshead
Expertise. Innovation. Compassionate Care.
Mr Milligan is an internationally respected Consultant Oncoplastic and Cosmetic Breast Surgeon, known for his exceptional outcomes, pioneering techniques, and genuine, honest care. With over 18 years of experience dedicated solely to breast surgery, he is one of the most trusted names in the field across Newcastle, Gateshead and the wider Northeast of England.
Training & Qualifications
After graduation from Newcastle Medical School, Mr Milligan went on to complete rigorous surgical training in general, breast, and plastic surgery. He pursued advanced subspecialty training in oncoplastic and reconstructive breast surgery, acquiring a unique combination of skills that allow him to deliver beautiful, natural-looking cosmetic results while maintaining the highest standards of safety and surgical precision.
- GMC Registered Consultant Surgeon
- Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons (FRCS)
- Specialist in Cosmetic, Oncoplastic and Reconstructive Breast Surgery
- Fully insured, CQC-compliant, and operates at CQC-registered hospitals
NHS Consultant & Private Specialist
Mr Milligan holds a substantive Consultant post at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Gateshead, where he leads complex breast cancer surgeries and reconstructions. In his private cosmetic practice, he applies the same standards of care, offering a calm, supportive environment for patients seeking aesthetic breast procedures.
He operates privately across Gateshead, Newcastle upon Tyne, and the wider Northeast, including:
- Newcastle Nuffield Hospital
- Tyneside Surgical Services
Leader in Research and Surgical Innovation
Mr Milligan is recognised as a key opinion leader in Endoscopic (keyhole) Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy, a pioneering technique in minimally invasive breast cancer surgery. In August 2024, he became the first surgeon to perform this procedure in the UK – a groundbreaking technique that leaves no visible marks or scars on the breast. This innovation showcases his commitment to improving patient outcomes by reducing the physical and emotional burden of mastectomy surgery for his patients.
In 2019, Mr Milligan was the first surgeon in the UK to use Radiofrequency Identification (RFID) tags to localise breast cancers, allowing pinpoint accuracy. This cutting-edge technique improves precision during surgery and enhances outcomes for patients. He has published extensively and lectured internationally on this topic.
Mr Milligan is the Surgery Lead for the Northern Centre for Breast Research. He is actively involved in national and international breast surgery research, contributing to clinical trials and publishing in peer-reviewed journals. His areas of research interest include:
- Endoscopic Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy
- Cosmetic outcomes after breast surgery
- Breast implant safety and revision techniques
- Tumour localisation methods
Philosophy of Care
“Cosmetic breast surgery is not about vanity – it’s about confidence, comfort, and feeling at home in your own body. My role is to listen to your goals, explain your options honestly, and use my skills to help you achieve a result that looks and feels right for you.”
– Rob Milligan
Rob believes every patient deserves to feel informed, empowered, and respected. He sees each consultation as a collaborative process, never rushing or pressuring decisions. His calm, approachable manner makes patients feel at ease, while his surgical results speak for themselves.
Why Patients Choose Mr Milligan
- UK Leader in Cosmetic, Oncoplastic and Reconstructive Breast Surgery
- Trusted by thousands of NHS and private patients alike across the Northeast
- The first UK surgeon to have performed Endoscopic Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy
- Over 18 years of dedicated breast surgery experience
- Honest, personalised advice and 1-to-1 care throughout your journey
- Excellent patient feedback, testimonials, and long-term satisfaction
Positions of Responsibility
Mr Milligan holds several senior positions within national surgical bodies and his local NHS Trust, demonstrating his leadership, expertise, and commitment to raising standards in breast surgery:
- Member of the Aesthetic Breast Surgery Committee, Association of Breast Surgery
Helps guide national policy, safety, and education around cosmetic breast surgery in the UK - Member of the Clinical Practice and Standards Committee, Association of Breast Surgery
Works to improve and maintain high standards of breast surgery practice nationwide - Northern Regional Representative, Association of Breast Surgery
Acts as a key voice for surgeons across the North of England, ensuring regional perspectives are represented at national level - Private Practice Representative, Association of Breast Surgery
Advocates for quality, transparency, and excellence in private cosmetic and breast cancer surgery - Executive Committee Member, iBRA-NET (implant Breast Reconstruction Audit Network)
Supports research, data collection, and continuous improvement in breast reconstruction techniques and outcomes - Surgery Lead, Northern Centre for Breast Research
Delivering high quality research in the Northeast - Breast Surgery Safecare Lead, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Gateshead
Leads on initiatives to promote patient safety, surgical governance, and quality improvement within the Trust - Faculty Member for multiple National and International breast surgery
training courses Courses include Endoscopic Mastectomy, Trainee Interface Group Fellowship Cadaver Lab, Specialty Skills in Oncoplastic Breast Surgery
He also runs the Regional Journal Club for senior breast surgery trainees in the Northern region, ensuring they stay up to date with the latest research, developments, and evidence-based practice in the field.
Book Your Private Consultation
If you’re considering a breast uplift in Newcastle or Gateshead, book a consultation with Mr Milligan to explore your options and receive a personalised treatment plan.
