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Breast Reduction

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One of the most gratifying plastic surgery procedures we perform is breast reduction. Our Kitchener-Waterloo breast reduction patients are typically among the most satisfied of our clients because overly large breasts can cause both physical and emotional discomfort. This surgery provides relief from back, neck, and shoulder pain, and opens up new options for clothing and physical activities.

Women come from cities such as Guelph, London, Windsor, and Cambridge for breast reduction at The Cosmetic Surgery Clinic. You can request a consultation online to meet personally with a member of our talented team of surgeons, or call our office at (519) 746-1132 to schedule an appointment.

Who is a candidate for breast reduction?

If you're considering breast reduction surgery, it's likely you're experiencing some level of physical discomfort and want to alleviate back and neck pain. Overly large breasts may interfere with an active lifestyle, limit wardrobe choices, and draw unwanted attention. Large breasts can also cause rashes and skin irritation, and create painful indentations from bra straps. The typical breast reduction patient seeks to:

• Alleviate the weight of large breasts
• Create breasts that are in proportion to the rest of her body
• Lift and reshape pendulous, sagging breasts

Because breast reduction procedures result in the reduction or elimination of back, neck, and shoulder pain, surgeries are typically covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan.

Does OHIP cover breast reduction?

OHIP does cover standard breast reduction procedures for qualified patients who meet a very strict set of criteria and obtain preapproval. Patients must be referred to a plastic surgeon by their family doctor, and the plastic surgeon must apply on the patient's behalf.

What are my options for breast reduction surgery?

Our surgeons specialize in breast procedures, and they have significant experience performing a range of advanced techniques. After a thorough consultation that includes a physical examination and discussion about your cosmetic goals, your surgeon will recommend a specific surgical plan based on your unique physical characteristics. The options include:

• Short scar incision: Most patients are good candidates for this technique, which involves making an incision around the areola and a small, vertical incision along the breast (sometimes called a "lollipop" incision).
• Wise Pattern reduction: For breasts that need a more significant degree of correction, an additional horizontal incision is made underneath the breasts in the inframammary fold. This is also called an inverted "T" incision because of its shape.

Our surgeons often recommend combining liposuction with breast reduction procedures to enhance the contours of your breasts and upper torso. When liposuction is included, we do the procedure at our Waterloo clinic. Otherwise, breast reduction surgery is performed at Cambridge Memorial Hospital.

What should I expect after surgery?

Recovery following breast reduction surgery varies from patient to patient, but we provide some general guidelines to help you know how to ensure your recovery is smooth. Most patients wear a special support bra that also helps to minimize swelling. We'll provide detailed instructions that emphasize:

• Sleeping on your back during the first few days after surgery
• Walking and doing light activities as soon as possible
• Avoiding pushing, pulling, twisting, or lifting until approved by your surgeon

The results of breast reduction surgery are long-lasting and you likely will notice reduced back and neck pain soon after the procedure.