Macromastia

Macromastia, otherwise known as female breast hypertrophy, is a medical condition that leads to abnormal breast enlargement characterized by excessive tissue growth. The severity of macromastia is characterized by the amount of breast tissue present. The condition is considered mild if tissue growth is less than 300 grams; moderate if it is between 300-800 grams, and severe if it exceeds 800 grams above the typical size. Macromastia can affect one or both breasts and is often accompanied by sagging of the breast tissue. The development of macromastia may have several causes, but is usually the result of overactive glands or fatty tissue from pubertal development, post-natal growth, menopause, or weight gain.

Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia is a medical condition that presents very similarly to macromastia in the male population. It involves the enlargement of the male breast tissue, which commonly occurs in infancy, puberty, or middle-aged men. Unlike macromastia, gynecomastia is usually characterized by enlargement of glandular tissue more so than fatty tissue. Typically, gynecomastia is symmetric, however, enlargement can be greater on one side. Surgically, the approach for treatment differs from female breast reduction.

How does breast reduction surgery work?

Surgical breast reduction in Toronto and Whitby requires the use of a general anesthetic throughout the procedure. Dr. Golger and Dr. Romy create an incision around the areola and then downward, towards the breast crease. Next, any excess breast tissue and skin are removed using liposuction and excision. Finally, the breasts are reshaped and repositioned for a more youthful and elevated appearance. The surgery will take approximately three hours to perform.

Take the Next Step

Different techniques for a Toronto breast reduction surgery

There are a number of different techniques that can be used for breast reduction surgery. The traditional approach for a breast reduction surgery involves three incisions: one incision around the areola, a second incision that travels vertically from the bottom of the areola to the breast crease, and a third incision that follows the natural edge of the breast fold. At Avenue Plastic Surgery, we prefer a second method for breast reduction, which reduces scarring somewhat. This short scar method is often referred to as the “lollipop” approach and involves one incision around the areola and one vertical incision under the breast. Your plastic surgeon will discuss with you what the best way to achieve your goals will be.

Women with very large breasts may require additional incisions under the breast, as well as the removal of more tissue. For best results in such cases, breast liposuction and contouring can be performed in conjunction with the breast reduction.

During your consultation with our enhancement team, we will share further detail regarding our techniques and how we can help you achieve an optimal outcome and improved body contours.

Breast Reduction Surgery Recovery

Once you complete your breast reduction surgery, we will wrap your chest in a dressing and fit you with a supportive, post-operative bra that helps with recovery. You should expect to see some swelling and bruising for a few weeks, and any discomfort that you experience can be managed with prescription medications. Within a couple of weeks, you will be ready to return to your normal routine although it is recommended to postpone any rigorous activity until six weeks post-operation.

Your recovery after a breast reduction surgery

As mentioned, you will be fitted with a post-operative garment to help promote healing after the surgery. We will move you to our recovery suite in the clinic, where you are monitored by our nurses until you are ready to go home with a set of instructions.

In the following days after your Toronto breast reduction surgery, it will be important that you rest and relax for a fast and full recovery. All strenuous activities should be avoided. Many women have reported a lack of sensation and numbness in their nipples and areola for up to a year. Swelling and bruising should be expected, but it will subside after some time. These types of occurrences are considered normal and part of the healing process. However, if you have any concerns you are welcome to contact our clinic.

You will be asked to visit our clinic after one week of recovery so that Dr. Golger and Dr. Romy can monitor the progression of your recovery. After two weeks, most patients are able to walk and return to work. Exercise and other physical activities such as weight-lifting and Pilates can resume after four to six weeks, with clearance from our doctors. Regular follow-up appointments with our clinic will be scheduled at around eight weeks and six months post-surgery.

What to expect from a Breast Reduction Procedure

You’ll be in great care as Dr. Golger is considered by his patients as the top breast reduction surgeon in Toronto and Whitby. Unlike other plastic surgery procedures, breast reduction can result in the swiftest noticeable body changes. Immediately following surgery, patients will feel the elimination of physical pain caused by large breasts, as well as improved body contour and appearance. Any chronic pain in the neck, back, and shoulders will be gone, and previous other physical or psychological issues will be eliminated. Once the swelling and bruising have diminished, you will be able to see the final outcomes of your breast reduction surgery. Your breasts will seem lifted and feel firmer to match their more youthful appearance.

Take the Next Step