What Is Breast Reduction?
With breast reduction surgery, Dr. Bovill’s intent is to create a more balanced breast shape and size, proportionate to the patient’s body frame. After creating a surgical plan designed to meet the agreed size and shape objectives, Dr. Bovill removes excess tissue, then reshapes and tightens the remaining tissue for a more svelt and comfortable breast size. Breast reduction can result in improved neck and back pain, self-confidence, and posture. Furthermore, this procedure often helps patients’ wardrobe options flourish and enables them to engage in sports and exercise more in greater comfort, both physically and psychologically.
Learn More About Breast Reduction Procedures
1. Candidates for Cosmetic Breast Reduction
Individuals who experience neck, shoulder, and upper back pain as a result of overly large breasts, and who are close to their recommended healthy weight, are typically considered suitable candidates for therapeutic breast reduction surgery. This is somewhat distinct from aesthetic breast lift surgery (mastopexy). indications that breast reduction may be a good option include the following:
- Problems finding clothes that fit
- Shoulder grooving from bra straps
- Breast discomfort during sport
- Rashes under the breasts
- Poor self-esteem related to cumbersome breasts
In British Columbia, breast reduction in symptomatic large breasts is an MSP-insured service, and therefore a GP referral is required. A reduction mastopexy performed purely for lifestyle and aesthetic preference may however be undertaken privately with a self-referral. If you think a breast reduction may be right for you, please discuss planning an appointment with Dr. Bovill through her office staff. They can guide you to the appropriate initial consultation.
2. Breast Reduction Procedures
Dr. Bovill offers both the anchor and circumvertical (‘lollipop’) incision techniques for breast reduction surgery. The anchor incision encircles the areola, travels vertically down the breast from the bottom of the areola to the breast fold, then follows along the inframammary crease. The resulting scar pattern is also sometimes described as an “inverted T.
The circumvertical approach avoids the breast fold scar but may reduce the dramatic shape change achievable. Dr. Bovill prefers the modern superomedial pedicle technique, which allows her to remove heavy excess tissue along the bottom and outside of the breast while preserving blood supply and innervation to the nipple. This technique helps create a pleasing breast shape with sustainable upper breast fullness and projection.
Ultimately, the best approach for your breast reduction will depend on your unique case. During your consultation, Dr Bovill will assess you and your objectives, and propose the technique that can yield the best possible shape with optimal scarring.
3. Recovery Following Breast Reduction
Following breast reduction surgery, patients typically benefit from a week off work, although more strenuous or ‘bouncy’ activities (such as running) may need to be avoided for four to five weeks. Mild soreness is typical during recovery, but any discomfort can usually be addressed with simple pain relievers. Swelling and/or bruising is also part of the healing process, but these symptoms typically settle within a month with the final volume apparent at around six weeks (new bra shopping!). While permanent, over time, scars should fade. Dr. Bovill understands patient concerns around reduction and lift scarring and works closely with her patients to ensure optimal healing and timely scar management.
It is important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by Dr. Bovill, including bra wear, as each patient’s recovery is unique. Postoperative in-person or virtual appointments can also help Dr. Bovill monitor your recovery and identify and treat any potential complications, should they arise. She can then also provide you with more tailored advice as you return to your usual physical activities.
Get All Your Breast Reduction Questions Answered
If you've been considering what a breast reduction can do for your confidence and appearance, you can get all your questions answered by arranging a private personalized consultation with Dr. Bovill at her Vancouver clinic.
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