The expression “it’s a weight off my chest” is one many of us are familiar with, metaphorically speaking. But breast reduction surgery can be the literal embodiment of this relief; both in a physical and holistic sense for many people. Patients who come to us for breast reduction surgery are often seeking relief from pain, discomfort, or cosmetic concerns that have been aggravating them for years. Breast reduction surgery can make everyday life more enjoyable; from relieving pain and discomfort to allowing for greater range of motion and athletic freedom. If your breasts are bigger than is suitable for your frame, you’re likely feeling that extra weight in your daily activities. There are a myriad of cosmetic and health reasons to have a breast reduction. Let’s explore if a breast reduction is right for you.
The ideal candidate for breast reduction is healthy enough to have a safe surgery and recover appropriately. We consider medical aspects of your physical health, especially factors that impact healing, primarily diabetes and smoking history. If you’re currently a smoker you’ll need to stop smoking at least six weeks before your surgery, and ideally even further in advance. You also won’t be able to smoke during your recovery. Breast cancer risk or history is another factor we consider in your breast reduction consultation; including any lumps and bumps, and your family history. This procedure doesn’t affect breast cancer in any way, but making sure we understand the density and breast type is integral to making sure there isn’t confusion down the line when you’re being screened or having mammograms. With all these factors in mind, an appropriate candidate is also consistently unhappy with their breast size or weight and how it affects their everyday life. If you’re experiencing pain, discomfort, aches, or rashes as a result of your breast size, you could be the right fit for this surgery.
If your breasts are heavier or bigger than is comfortable for your body to support, you might experience several of the symptoms listed below. When you’re carrying a weight on the front half of your body that your physical frame isn’t equipped to support, other areas like the neck, shoulders and back can experience pain, discomfort, or pressure. Breast reduction surgery can provide relief and freedom to take up activities that are hard to perform with larger breasts. You may have an easier time finding workout gear, find you’re able to go on runs again or pick up your kids comfortably.
Back and neck pain is common with larger breasts. The toll that extra weight takes affects the whole body, and an asymmetry in carrying that weight can also affect posture and put pressure on the spine or shoulders. When we reduce your breast size and reshape the chest to a size and shape that’s suitable, we’re able to relieve that extra weight you’ve been carrying around.
Hanging heavy breasts can cause irritation and rashes under and around the breast area. These rashes can cause discomfort or even become infected. Lifting the chest can make that uncomfortable rubbing or chafing less common and allow for more comfortable movement in exercise and everyday life.
Deep grooves, marks, or painful pressure along bra strap lines are a common symptom when your breasts are too heavy for your frame. You might also experience irritation or pain along the tops of your shoulders or struggle to find bras or chest support garments that are comfortable.
Yes, we do accept OHIP for breast reduction surgery. Consultations are also complimentary if your family doctor sends in a referral. We almost always recommend that breast reduction patients also have contouring liposuction to make sure that the results are optimal and aesthetically pleasing. Liposuction as part of a breast reduction is not covered by OHIP, so if you decide to include this in your reduction it will be an added cost. Pairing liposuction with a breast reduction can help to ensure a beautiful, natural and smooth result.
Breast reduction surgery can be covered under OHIP but requires application and preauthorization before surgery. Size or sagging alone do not qualify a patient for coverage; there must be significant negative symptoms associated with the condition of the breasts to deem the surgery medically necessary.
Explore our galleries of breast reduction results to get a sense of how your results could look. When you’re ready, come see us for a consultation and let’s step into a new chapter together.