Toronto Breast Reduction

Large breasts may seem like an asset to some, but for women who have them, they can be uncomfortable, awkward, and even embarrassing.

Breast Reduction Surgery

The Breast Reduction procedure, technically known as Reduction Mammoplasty, involves removing fat from the breast to make it smaller, firmer, and lighter. The most common way of performing breast reduction surgery is the “Inverted T,” in which one incision travels along the bottom of the breast, and another goes upward toward the nipple.

Dr. Jugenburg rarely uses the “inverted T” approach, but rather limits the incision to only the vertical component. This means a significant reduction in scar size. Additionally, the technique Dr. Jugenburg performs is associated with fewer complications than the traditional “inverted T” with inferior pedicle technique. As a result, the blood supply, sensation, and “bottoming out” (sagging of the breast) are all improved compared to the traditional approach.

In addition to the cutting out of the excess fat and breast tissue, Dr. Jugenburg also performs liposuction to sculpt the breast and remove excess fat from the side of the chest which the government health plan doesn’t consider part of the breast (and therefore is not covered under the provincial health plan) but is unsightly if left behind after the breasts have been reduced in size.

Will My Insurance Help Cover the Cost Of Surgery?

Insurance coverage is sometimes available to help with the cost of Breast Reduction Surgery. Provincial health programs have different requirements for eligibility. In general, you must have medical problems due to large breasts as cosmetic reasons are not eligible for coverage. If Dr. Jugenburg assesses you and determines that you may qualify, he will submit an application form to the Ministry of Health. It usually takes 4-6 weeks to get a reply. If you are approved, the fee for the procedure (on top of the insurance coverage) is $2500. If you are not eligible for coverage, the overall fee for Dr. Jugenburg’s Breast Reduction surgery is $5500.

Where Are Breast Reduction Incisions Placed?

Dr. Jugenburg limits his breast reduction incisions to two places. One incision is made around the areola. Another runs vertically from the bottom edge of the areola to the crease underneath the breast. Sometimes, when a very large reduction is required, the third incision follows the natural curve of the breast crease.

How Should I Prepare For Surgery?

Depending on your age, or if you have a history of breast cancer in your family, Dr. Jugenburg may recommend a baseline mammogram before surgery and another mammographic examination some months after surgery. This will help to detect any future changes in your breast tissue. Following breast reduction, you will still be able to perform breast self-examination. If you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well in advance of surgery. Aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs can cause increased bleeding, so you should avoid taking these medications for a period of time before surgery. You should arrange to have someone take you home after the surgery and spend the first night with you.

Recovery After Breast Reduction

The typical recovery following breast reduction surgery is 2-4 weeks (you should plan on taking at least one week off from work). You should avoid any strenuous physical activity for 2 weeks and should not lift your arms above your shoulders during this time. During this time you will experience pain and bruising around the breast area. Bruising and swelling will become more noticeable after 3-4 days and disappear 2-3 weeks following the procedure. Scars will remain noticeable and raised for 6-9 months before they smooth out and fade away. You will not see the final shape and scarring of the breast for several months. Altered skin sensation of the breast is common post-surgery and usually resolves in 6-12 months. Occasionally, the altered sensation is permanent. A supportive bra (without an under wire) will be worn for a minimum of 4 weeks. Sports may be resumed after 3-4 months.

It is important to realize that all women have some degree of asymmetry with respect to:

• Breast volume
• Breast shape
• Chest wall placement of each breast
• Nipple-areolar size and shape
• Nipple-areolar placement on the breast mound

Some degree of breast asymmetry will persist after your surgery no matter how carefully the surgery is done. Directly after surgery, your breasts may exhibit more asymmetry than normal due to swelling, but with patience you will see that your breast will become more symmetrical following your recovery period. Rest assured that Dr. Jugenburg will make the best use of his artistic talents to give you as much symmetry as possible