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Breast Reduction
Overly large breasts can be a daily source of discomfort for many people. Back and neck pain are common with these patients, as is shoulder grooving from bra straps and skin irritation from chafing. Dr. Kim Meathrel, the Plastic Surgeon and Medical Director of Bespoke Skin MD, can help relieve the burden of large breasts with breast reduction surgery.
What Is Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction, also called a reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure used to remove excess breast tissue, fat and skin to create smaller and more proportional breasts. It is used for those whose breast size interferes with their comfort or movement or who simply want smaller breasts. Dr. Meathrel uses excision and liposuction techniques during this surgery.
What Are the Benefits of Breast Reduction?
A breast reduction addresses concerns that supportive garments and posture changes cannot resolve. When performed by an experienced surgeon such as Dr. Meathrel, this procedure can:
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Ease chronic back, neck and shoulder pain
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Relieve shoulder grooving caused by bra straps
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Reduce skin irritation and rashes beneath the breasts
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Improve comfort during exercise and daily movement
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Restore balance between the breasts and the body
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Reshape the breasts to a firmer, more lifted position
The Bespoke Approach to Breast Reduction
With the Bespoke Breast Reduction Package, you are receiving two complementary procedures at the same time — and the results will be stunning: firmer, tighter breasts with more definition, along with reduced back and neck pain.
You also get to skip the waiting. Typical wait times for breast reduction can be 12 months or more. At our private clinic, we can get started almost immediately.
Meet Dr. Meathrel
Dr. Kim Meathrel has served Kingston since 2006. She combines world-class expertise with a sophisticated aesthetic eye, integrity, restraint, and respect for each patient’s unique identity.
“I aim to ensure that every intervention enhances who you already are, and supports how you live. Your face, body, and confidence are not replaceable.”
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Certified Plastic Surgeon by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
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Undergraduate — BSc (Biology), Queen’s University, Kingston
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Medical School — MD, Queen’s University, Kingston
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Residency — Plastic Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton
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Burn Trauma Fellowship — Ross Tilley Burn Centre, Sunnybrook Hospital, Toronto
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Cosmetic Plastic Surgery — Mentorship under Dr. Lloyd Carlsen, Toronto
Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Reduction?
Not everyone is a candidate for this surgery. We look carefully at every factor, from your health history to your goals for surgery, before moving forward.
Specific Concerns
Breast reduction candidates are usually individuals who:
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Have breasts that feel disproportionately large or heavy for their frame
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Have finished breast development and are at a stable weight
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Have tried supportive bras, physiotherapy or posture work without lasting relief
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Avoid certain clothing, sports or activities because of their breast size
Skin Elasticity
Skin quality affects the results of breast reduction surgery. Those with good elasticity may have more favourable or longer-lasting results.
Stable Mental and Emotional Health
A positive outlook and plenty of mental health support will make this surgery a smoother experience. Our registered psychotherapist, Katherine Kennedy, supports patients both before and after surgery to make sure they are good candidates for a cosmetic procedure.
Age
There are no age limits for breast reduction surgery. Rather than focusing on your age, we look at other factors such as fully developed breasts and ability to undergo the surgery, anesthesia and recovery process safely. Dr. Meathrel also recommends this surgery for those who have a stable weight and breast size.
Realistic Expectations
The best patients are those who know what to expect from this surgery. A breast reduction offers relief from discomfort and more proportional breasts, but it cannot halt the effects of aging, and the results can change based on weight. Breasts will also have scars after this surgery.
Physical Health
All surgical candidates need to be in good physical health, without any major conditions that could complicate the surgery or recovery process. Any existing conditions need to be well managed before Dr. Meathrel schedules this surgery.
Non-Smoker
Smoking or the use of any nicotine products raises the risk of complications and slows the healing process. Dr. Meathrel only performs this surgery for non-smokers, or those who are willing to stop smoking both before and after their surgery.
Different Types of Breast Reduction Incisions
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Anchor (inverted-T) incision: Circles the areola, runs down to the breast crease and along it, giving the surgeon the most access for larger reductions.
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Vertical (lollipop) incision: Circles the areola and runs straight down to the crease, with no horizontal scar, suited to moderate reductions.
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Donut (periareolar) incision: A single circular incision around the areola, used for small reductions with limited reshaping.
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Liposuction-only incision: A few tiny incisions for the cannula, leaving minimal scarring, suited only for breasts that are mostly fatty and have good skin elasticity.
Breast Reduction Techniques
The procedure may draw on several techniques depending on your anatomy and goals:
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Liposuction: Removes fatty volume and refines the contour of the breast and surrounding area.
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Tissue and skin excision: Removes excess glandular tissue and skin to reduce size and reshape the breast.
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Nipple repositioning: Moves the nipple and areola to a natural height on the smaller breast.
What to Expect From Breast Reduction With Dr. Meathrel
Consultation
At your consultation, you can expect to have a chat with Dr. Meathrel who will determine if you are a candidate for the Bespoke Breast Reduction technique. You will have a detailed review of the procedure, including its pros and cons and the healing time. You will have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the procedure, along with a discussion of OHIP options.
If you wish to be partially covered by OHIP, you may have to wait. If not, we can book a procedure date at the consultation. The payment of our consultation fee will be reimbursed once you book a procedure. Please note we only offer the Bespoke Breast Reduction with an additional cosmetic fee for liposuction.
Preparation
Preparation begins several weeks ahead of your surgery. Any nicotine use needs to stop one month before surgery. Two weeks beforehand, stop any medications and supplements that raise bleeding risk, using the list Dr. Meathrel provides. You will also attend a pre-operative appointment for paperwork and photographs.
Procedure
On the day of surgery, you will be placed under general anesthesia. The procedure usually takes two to three hours. Dr. Meathrel uses liposuction alongside removal of excess tissue and skin, then repositions the nipple and areola on the smaller breast. Incisions are planned so scarring stays discreet, and dressings are applied before you return home.
What Is Recovery Like After Breast Reduction?
Recovery varies with the extent of surgery and your own healing process. Most people return to everyday activities within two to three weeks, while full recovery takes several months.
Days 1 to 3
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Expect swelling, bruising and tenderness across the chest.
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A supportive surgical bra is worn to reduce swelling.
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Rest with your upper body elevated.
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Light movement around the home is encouraged, but avoid anything strenuous.
Days 4 to 7
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Bruising and swelling begin to settle.
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Discomfort is usually well controlled with prescribed medication.
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Gentle walks support healthy circulation.
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Avoid alcohol and nicotine, which both slow healing.
Week 2 Onward
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Bruising and swelling continue to fade.
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Most patients return to work and light social activity.
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Keep wearing your surgical bra as directed.
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Continue to avoid lifting, exercise and anything that raises blood pressure.
Beyond One Month
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Remaining swelling gradually resolves, and the breasts settle into shape.
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Scars begin to fade, though full maturation can take up to a year.
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Normal activity, including exercise, resumes once Dr. Meathrel gives clearance.
What Results Can a Breast Reduction Achieve?
At Bespoke Skin MD, Dr. Meathrel focuses on long-term results that look natural and stay comfortable for years. After surgery, the breasts are smaller, lighter and better proportioned. Discomfort from large breasts is eased, and there is more freedom during physical activities.
Are There Alternatives to Breast Reduction Surgery?
Some options ease the symptoms of large breasts, but none remove excess tissue or reshape the breast the way surgery does:
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Weight management: Losing weight can lower breast volume when the fullness is mostly fatty.
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Professional bra fitting: A supportive, well-fitted bra can lessen strap grooving and discomfort.
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Physiotherapy: Strengthening and posture work can relieve some back and neck strain.
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Liposuction alone: For mostly fatty breasts, this lowers volume with minimal scarring.
Can I Combine a Breast Reduction With Other Procedures?
Breast reduction pairs well with procedures that address related concerns or bring more balance to the body. At Bespoke Skin MD, liposuction is included within the reduction to refine the surrounding contour and produce a firmer result.
For patients planning broader changes, reduction can be staged with body contouring after weight loss, abdominoplasty or fat grafting. Combining procedures can mean one anesthetic and a single recovery period.
Book Your Breast Lift Consultation in Kingston
A breast reduction can relieve years of discomfort while giving you a lighter, better proportioned shape that still looks like you. To request a consultation with Kingston plastic surgeon Dr. Kim Meathrel, book online or contact Bespoke Skin MD at 613-549-7546.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Reduction Surgery
Will I be able to breastfeed after a breast reduction?
Breast reduction can affect breastfeeding, as some ducts and glandular tissue are removed. Many people keep partial function, though it cannot be guaranteed. Raise this at your consultation if you plan on breastfeeding children in the future.
Will my breast reduction scars be visible?
Yes, breast reduction leaves permanent scars, though Dr. Meathrel places incisions to keep them discreet. Early scars look more noticeable, then fade and soften over the following year.
What are the potential risks of breast reduction surgery?
Possible risks include bleeding, infection, changes in nipple sensation, delayed healing and reactions to anesthesia. Choosing an experienced surgeon and following your instructions lowers these risks, which are covered fully at your consultation.
Is breast reduction surgery covered by OHIP?
Breast reduction may be partly covered by OHIP when set medical criteria are met, though this often involves a long wait. At our private clinic you can begin sooner, with a cosmetic fee for the included liposuction.
Book a Consultation Today
