Are your breasts too large? Do they get in the way of your daily activities or are they causing back pain?

Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, 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

Solutions

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

One technique is not necessarily better than another, but one approach will likely be recommended as the best course of action for you.

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

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 procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia, sometimes under mild or local anesthesia. The surgeon corrects the sagging by sculpting the breast: reducing excess skin, raising the level of the nipple and, if necessary, reducing the diameter of the areola. This takes about two hours.

You can return home on the day of the operation. Make sure you are escorted back home by someone reliable. The bruises and swelling will disappear after a few weeks. You can also take the painkillers prescribed by your surgeon if you are in too much pain.

You can resume work four or five days after surgery. 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. Complete healing can take up to a year. A vitamin E cream can speed up the process.

  • No alcohol
  • No tobacco
  • No intense physical activity

THE MAIN COMPLICATIONS

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Loss of skin or nipple (necrosis)
  • Scars
  • Asymmetry
  • Milk rising
  • Possible increase in breast volume after surgery
  • Nipple discharge
  • Retraction of nipples
  • Cysts

FAQ

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?

Depending on the condition and size of your breasts, there are various surgical options that are available. In most cases, the nipple-areolar complex can be left intact and attached to the ducts, blood vessels, and nerves to help maintain function. In most cases, a peri-areolar scar, as well as a vertical and horizontal scar, is necessary to achieve the ideal breast contour.

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. If you are at or over age 40, an electrocardiogram will be required. If you are over 35 years old, a mammogram may be prescribed. 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?

Most women return to their usual activities in one week. However, 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.