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BREAST SIZE CAUSING PAIN OR GETTING IN YOUR WAY?

Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure that can make the breasts smaller, lighter, firmer, and more proportionate to the rest of the body.

Making breasts smaller is only one of the many facets of breast reduction surgery. So much more than simply reducing breast size, the true goals of breast reduction are beautiful breasts, achieved through enhancement of breast shape, position, projection, proportion and decreased volume. The improvement of breast aesthetics, physical comfort, and self-confidence can be dramatic.

Women with overly large breasts can suffer from a variety of discomforts. If you experience self-consciousness, skin irritation beneath the breast crease, or back, neck and shoulder pain, you may want to look into a breast reduction surgery. Dr. Chad Wu, a board-certified plastic surgeon, performs some of the best results in breast reduction Toronto has to offer.

GOOD CANDIDATES FOR BREAST REDUCTION ARE WOMEN WHO MAY EXPERIENCE:

  • Self-consciousness and unwanted attention
  • Asymmetrical breasts
  • Indentations and grooves from bra straps
  • Neck, back, or shoulder pain
  • Limitations on physical activity
  • Rashes beneath their breasts

WHAT CAN A BREAST REDUCTION ACHIEVE?

  • Enhanced symmetry
  • Reduced areola and nipple size
  • Firmer, higher breasts with less droop
  • Reduced physical pain caused by the weight of breasts or ill-fitting bras
  • Improved mental health and self-esteem
  • Enjoy recreational activities comfortably

Here’s What We Can Do For You

If you’re considering a breast reduction mammaplasty in Toronto, Ontario, our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Chad Wu, has the training and experience to help you obtain your desired outcome.

There is a whole range of techniques available for the procedure. While each has its advantages, Dr. Chad will suggest one that addresses your concerns and will give you the results you desire.

Most breast reduction procedures are completed using either a vertical incision or an “anchor” (inferior pedicle) incision. The scar, while very visible initially, should fade with time. However, it’s unlikely to ever disappear completely. Most patients report little concern about the scar’s appearance, saying they are just glad to feel good in their body again.

Vertical Incision

Often referred to as the “Lollipop” Breast Reduction technique, a vertical lift uses an incision made around the circumference of the areola (the pigmented area around the nipple) as well as an additional incision from the areola vertically down to the inframammary fold. The inframammary fold is where the breast tissue meets the chest. This additional incision allows Dr. Wu to more effectively address excess skin and reshape the breast to achieve a firmer, fuller, and “perkier” outcome.

Inverted-T Incision

This procedure is also known as the “anchor” approach. The first two incisions mirror those of the lollipop technique, with a third incision created along the inframammary fold. This technique is often used with breasts that have significant ptosis, as it allows for the greatest amount of excess skin removal. The nipple and areola are also moved higher to obtain the most aesthetically pleasing outcome possible. This is the most common technique used.

Before & After

The Procedure

Whatever reason you’re opting for a reduction mammoplasty – heavy breasts that are causing back and neck pain, shoulder grooving from bra straps, or just improving breast proportion, you need to know how to prep for the procedure. It’s important to understand what happens during the surgery, what the breast reduction recovery time is, any restrictions, and possible complications.

BEFORE THE OPERATION: GET READY

TWO WEEKS BEFORE THE PROCEDURE

  • Do not take anti-inflammatory medications or aspirin.
  • Tell your surgeon what medications you are taking.
  • Report any allergies to your surgeon.
  • Inform your surgeon if you smoke.

THE DAY OF THE OPERATION

  • Wash with disinfectant soap.
  • Wear comfortable clothing.
  • Do not put on make-up.
  • Do not wear jewelry.

THE SURGICAL PROCEDURE

What to Expect

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon corrects the sagging by sculpting the breast through reducing excess skin and raising the level of the nipple. This procedure takes about three to four hours.

RECOVERY

What Happens After the Breast Reduction Surgery

You will be able to return home on the same day as your surgery. The bruises and swelling will disappear after a few weeks. You can also take the painkillers prescribed by your surgeon for pain management.

During convalescence at home, avoid moving your arms too much. Sleep on your back or on your side and avoid driving. You can resume your daily activities after a few weeks. You will have to wait between two and three weeks to do sports again.

RESTRICTIONS

What’s Not Allowed?

  • No alcohol
  • No tobacco
  • No intense physical activity

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Loss of skin or nipple (necrosis)
  • Scars
  • Asymmetry
  • Nipple discharge
  • Retraction of nipples
  • Cysts

Frequently Asked Questions

CAN BREAST REDUCTION HELP BACK, NECK, AND SHOULDER PAIN?

Yes, reduction mammaplasty can help relieve back, neck, and shoulder pain that is caused by the weight of large breasts. By reducing breast size and weight, there is less stress on the muscles, hence granting comfort to patients while they go about their daily life.

For breast reduction consultation in Toronto, contact Dr. Chad Wu today!

HOW MUCH BREAST TISSUE IS TYPICALLY REMOVED?

That depends on the original breast size of the patient and their goals. On average, 450-600 grams of tissue is removed from each breast. In case of small reductions, it could be as low as 250 grams, and 800+ grams could be removed in case of large reductions. 

WHAT IS RECOVERY LIKE AFTER REDUCTION MAMMAPLASTY?

You will be able to return home on the same day as your surgery. The bruises and swelling will disappear within a few weeks, and you can manage your pain with the prescribed painkillers. 

You should avoid moving your arms too much and sleep either on your back or side. After a few weeks, you can resume your daily activities as well, but avoid working out for 2-3 weeks.

WILL BREAST REDUCTION ALSO LIFT THE BREASTS?

Yes, a breast reduction includes a breast lift. This ensures that while breast size and weight get reduced, they remain youthful and well-defined.

To understand this better, book a consultation with Dr. Chad Wu.

WHERE ARE BREAST REDUCTION SCARS USUALLY LOCATED?

This depends on which technique has been used for the procedure. If the Lollipop has been used, scars will be visible around the areola and extend vertically down to the inframammary fold (where the breast tissue meets the chest), for that’s where the incisions are made.

In the case of an Anchor approach, the first two incisions are like the previous technique, with a third one made along the inframammary fold. Hence, this one will have another scar.

Remember that scars slowly fade with time, though they may not completely disappear. Good post-op care will help in the reduction of their appearance.

HOW LONG DOES THE PROCEDURE TAKE?

Operating time is about 3-4 hours.

WHAT FORM OF ANESTHESIA IS USED?

General anesthesia is used for all surgical procedures and is performed by a Professional M.D. Anesthesiologist.

HOW IS THIS PROCEDURE DONE?

Incisions are made on the breast, removing excess skin and sculpting the breast for a youthful and shapely appearance. The level of the nipple is raised, and the areola’s diameter decreased. 

Dr. Chad Wu would gladly answer your queries. Book a consultation with him to understand the process and recovery time.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY BREAST REDUCTION?

During your initial preoperative visit with your surgeon, be prepared to give a complete medical history including all your medications, allergies and previous surgeries. You will undergo a thorough physical examination and blood tests. Photographs, which do not include your face, are important aids in planning and performing your breast reduction. They become a permanent part of your patient record and are taken before and several months after your procedure.

During your consultation, you will be given specific directions to help you prepare for your procedure. Instructions include cautions about taking a certain medication and drinking alcohol, the shaving process and use of antibacterial soap. You must not eat or drink anything eight hours before your procedure. Do not smoke two weeks before and two days after surgery. If you take daily medication, ask your surgeon if it is safe to take before your procedure. If you have any sores on your body, if you have a cold, sore throat or allergic condition, inform your surgeon so you may be examined before your procedure. You must also stop taking aspirin or diet pills at least two weeks before the procedure.

CAN I RETURN HOME THE SAME DAY?

Breast reduction is done on an ambulatory basis, and an overnight stay will not be required. However, it is necessary that you have someone to pick you up after the procedure, take you home, and stay with you for at least 24 hours.

HOW LONG BEFORE I CAN RETURN TO NORMAL ACTIVITY?

You must not lift anything for the first two weeks and do no heavy lifting for the first four weeks. Avoid raising your arms above your head for at least two weeks.

Ready for Your Breast Reduction?

Instead of suffering from neck, back, or shoulder pain due to enlarged breasts, consult Dr. Chad Wu for a breast reduction procedure. A reduction mammoplasty is more than just a reduction in size; it also enhances shape and balance, with improvement in comfort and self-esteem. 

As a quadruple board-certified plastic surgeon in Toronto, Dr. Chad Wu combines advanced surgical expertise with a patient-first philosophy to help you restore confidence in your appearance. During your consultation, you’ll receive a thorough evaluation and have the opportunity to:

  • Discuss your concerns about excess breast volume, asymmetry, areola, and nipple size 
  • Learn which breast reduction procedure best suits your goals: periareolar lift (donut), vertical incision (lollipop), or inverted-T incision (anchor)
  • Review before-and-after results and understand realistic, natural-looking outcomes
  • Ask questions about recovery and long-term results

Dr. Chad Wu aims to ensure that you feel good in your body again, and the weight of your breasts doesn’t hamper your daily life or limit you in any way.

Book Your Personalized Breast Reduction Consultation Today

Start Your Breast Reduction Journey