Breast Reduction

A breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure that reduces the size of overly large breasts. Breasts that are too large can cause embarrassment and discomfort, and reducing their size can help improve one’s quality of life. The procedure is primarily performed with excisional techniques to remove the excess skin and tissue. ⁽¹⁾ If you struggle with back or shoulder pain, bra strap indentations, skin irritation, poor posture due to breast size, limitations during physical exercise, or more, you may benefit greatly from a breast reduction.

As one of Montreal’s leading plastic surgeons, Dr. Gaby Doumit specializes in breast procedures of all types. By taking the time to uniquely understand and address each patient’s struggles and desires, he can formulate a treatment plan that delivers beautiful and exceptional results. If the size of your breasts is a source of discomfort or distress, we have options available to you. Schedule your consultation today by submitting our online contact form and begin your breast reduction journey. If you have any further questions, please call our Montreal office directly at (514) 932-8200.

Before and After Photos

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About Breast Reduction

A breast reduction is a surgical procedure aimed at decreasing the size and weight of heavy, large breasts. Many individuals seek breast reduction to alleviate the physical and emotional discomfort that larger breasts can bring. ⁽¹⁾ This procedure involves removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to provide a more proportionate breast size.

Breast reduction is designed to enhance both the aesthetic appearance of the breasts and to improve the overall quality of life for patients experiencing discomfort from disproportionately large breasts. This condition can lead to medical issues such as chronic back pain, neck pain, and skin irritation, as well as negative impacts on self-esteem and body image.

Historically, breast reduction procedures have gained popularity since the 1970s, acknowledging the importance of achieving a healthy balance between function and form. ⁽¹⁾ According to recent statistics, breast reduction surgeries are performed thousands of times each year across North America alone, indicating that many individuals require and benefit from this transformational procedure. ⁽¹⁾

More than just a cosmetic adjustment, breast reduction can significantly enhance physical comfort and promote better posture. ⁽²⁾ People often express that they feel liberated post-surgery, enjoying new clothing options and engaging in physical activities without worry or pain.

Benefits

Breast reduction treatments offer patients numerous benefits. Under the expert treatment of Dr. Doumit, our patients see improvements through:

Candidates

Any individual whose breasts are larger than they would like them to be can be eligible for a breast reduction treatment. For men, we offer male breast reductions to treat gynecomastia. For women, having breasts that regularly inhibit daily activities, cause pain, or are a source of embarrassment usually motivates them to seek breast reduction. Prospective patients should be in good overall health, maintain realistic expectations, and be willing to follow the preparation guidelines presented by Dr. Doumit. All patients will have their candidacy further determined during a consultation.

Personal Consultation

A consultation with Dr. Doumit will help you learn if you are a candidate for breast reduction and help you understand how reduction mammoplasty can enhance your breast appearance while also easing the physical symptoms you experience.

At this meeting, we will assess and measure your breast size and shape, note the location of your nipples and areolas, and examine your skin quality. We will record all measurements in detail and take pictures of your pre-treatment breasts for your medical record. With this information collected, we will discuss your treatment options, explain the expected results, and discuss the potential risks of the procedure. Finally, we will also explain your anesthesia options, though most patients opt to be placed under general anesthesia for this procedure.

By taking the time to collect information and form a personalized treatment plan, we can enhance the safety and efficacy of your procedure so you see optimal results in a short timeframe. Schedule your consultation online today to get started, or call our office at (514) 932-8200 with any questions or concerns you may have.

Preparation

Once your surgery date is set, following preoperative instructions carefully is pivotal. Key preparations include:

Procedure

Breast reduction consists of removing the excess fat, skin, and glandular tissue through incisions. Liposuction may be used to remove the excess fat, especially if fatty tissue is the main factor in your breast size. The procedure involves two components: reducing the weight and size of your breasts and “lifting” them to attain a beautiful and youthful shape. ⁽²⁾

Dr. Doumit will determine beforehand the best technique for your breast reduction after considering your preferences, the desired amount of reduction, breast composition, and your individual condition.

After you are placed under anesthesia, Dr. Doumit will mark your breasts and make the selected incisions. Through these incisions, he will remove excess tissue. He will also have access to any underlying structures that require tightening.

The incision techniques commonly used for breast reduction include:

Vertical Mammoplasty

Also called the “short scar” method, this incision technique is done by circling the nipple and areola area and extending it down below the breast vertically. The short scar decreases the scarring length by 50%, improving the cosmetic appearance and making the breast rounder. ⁽²⁾ The result is more natural, and it avoids horizontal scarring under the breast. Women with moderately large breasts are the best candidates for this technique.

Traditional Reduction Procedures

In these procedures, the incision used is shaped like an inverted T or an anchor. It starts around the areola, extends vertically down, reaches the underside of the breast, and continues horizontally along the breast crease. This technique allows the reduction of volume, the elevation of the nipple position, and the refinement of the contour of the breasts. Women with excessively large breasts are better candidates for this procedure. ⁽²⁾

After the necessary adjustments are made, Dr. Doumit will examine the breasts to ensure breast symmetry and harmony with the rest of the body. After determining that the results of the procedure meet the planned expectations, your incisions will be closed, your breasts will be dressed, and you can begin your recovery.

Recovery

It is recommended to have someone drive you home after the procedure and stay with you for at least 24 hours after your procedure. Your incisions will be covered by bandages (Bactigras) and dressings after the surgery, and you may be instructed to wear a recovery bra to support the breasts. It is best to wear a sports bra for 6 weeks after your procedure. Dr. Doumit will give you more specific directives for better breast reduction recovery. These may vary for each patient depending on their unique medical history and their specific treatment details, but they may involve the following points:

Results

The breast reduction procedure leads to long-lasting outcomes that should alleviate the pain and discomfort previously experienced and enhance your confidence and body image. Most patients see immediate results upon waking from surgery, though final results become apparent after the initial swelling subsides, usually within several months. Incisions will gradually fade, becoming less noticeable over time and hidden beneath clothing. Patient satisfaction rates remain high as women frequently report improvements in physical comfort and emotional well-being. ^(1,2) While this is an effective treatment, the natural aging process cannot be stopped, and weight changes, hormonal factors, and gravity can modify your breasts.

Corresponding Procedures

Breast reduction procedures may borrow lifting techniques found in breast lifts, also known as mastopexies. Some patients will include this procedure in their treatment plan as well. Breasts that are too large may cause the skin to stretch to a point of no return. Age, weight fluctuations, and more may also contribute to a condition called breast ptosis, which is characterized by sagging, deflated breasts. In a breast lift, excess skin is removed from the breasts, and underlying muscles are tightened to create a stronger foundation. The breasts are also raised to a higher position. This procedure results in healthy, youthful, and perky-looking breasts. When combined with a breast reduction, patients are left with enhanced confidence in their breasts, and combining these procedures can enhance the results of each.

Cost of Breast Reduction in Montreal, QC

The cost of a breast reduction varies according to the complexity of the surgery that needs to be performed. At our practice, breast reduction usually costs between 10,000$ and 12,500$. After meeting with Dr. Doumit to discuss your treatment and form a plan, you will receive an all-inclusive price quote.

Schedule your consultation today to begin exploring your breast reduction options. If you have any further questions, please call our Montreal office at (514) 932-8200 to speak with an expert.

FAQ

References

1. Sachs D, Szymanski KD. Breast Reduction. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441974/
2. Purohit S. Reduction mammoplasty. Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery : Official Publication of the Association of Plastic Surgeons of India. 2008;41(Suppl):S64. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2825129/