Breasts come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you love them or simply tolerate them, they are a part of who we are. Comprised of different layers and types of tissue, breasts develop differently between individuals. Most breasts are not symmetrical and it’s not uncommon for a woman to have two very different breasts (either in shape, size or nipple placement). Although their primary physiological function is milk production for feeding our offspring, we have become more and more engaged in their physical or cosmetic function.
Breasts have the uncanny ability of either boosting or reducing a woman’s self-esteem. The most common complaints are size-related (too big or too small) but there are a number of other cosmetic concerns including asymmetry, inverted nipples, drooping and reconstruction post-mastectomy. At Oakville Plastic Surgery and Advanced Skincare, we offer a comprehensive treatment strategy for your breast procedure. Whether you’re interested in breast implants, lift, reduction or reconstruction, Dr. Nancy de Kleer and her team are here for you. Below we’ve highlighted a few common cosmetic breast complaints and their corresponding surgical procedures.
Complaint: My breasts are too small.
Treatment: Breast implants (breast augmentation).
Feeling like your breasts are too small can leave a lasting impression on your self-esteem. Whether you are genetically pre-disposed to smaller breasts or have lost breast mass due to weight loss, pregnancy, breast-feeding or cancer, implants can restore self-confidence and banish breast envy.
Common question about breast implants: silicone or saline?
There are two main types of breast implants: cohesive silicone gel and saline. Both come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes and suitability will be discussed during your consultation. The main difference between the two is their filling. Silicone implants have a gummy bear consistency – giving them a natural soft feel. Saline implants have a silicone outer shell and are filled to the desired size with saline (salt water) during the surgery. Both implants are safe and approved by Health Canada.
Click here to learn more about breast implants.
Complaint: My breasts are too big.
Treatment: Breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty).
Are your voluptuous breasts weighing you down? Although you may be the envy of many smaller-chested women, we understand the physical burden of large, heavy and pendulous breasts. Large breasts have been attributed to back, neck and shoulder pain in addition to a variety of skin irritations, not to mention the shoulder divots from bra straps.
Breast reduction surgery involves the removal of excess breast tissue and skin from beneath the nipple through a ‘lollipop’ incision. Liposuction is also commonly used to help remove excess fat and reshape the breast. Not only are the breasts reduced, but they are also lifted with this procedure.
Common concern about breast reduction: small cup size.
The biggest concern with breast reduction patients is a worry that the new breasts will be too small. A common question is “what size will I be after the surgery?” It’s important to understand that breast reduction surgery isn’t all about obtaining a quantifiable size; it’s also about breast symmetry and quality of life. The amount of breast tissue removed will be discussed in your consultation. Click here to learn more about breast reduction surgery.
Complaint: My breasts are saggy.
Treatment: Breast lift (mastopexy).
Aging, weight loss, pregnancy and breast-feeding can all affect skin elasticity. As we age or undergo physical changes such as pregnancy, our skin loses its ability to ‘bounce-back’. The result: drooped or saggy breasts. If you’re finding yourself pining away for the perky and full breasts of your youth, a breast lift can restore what was once lost.
The breast is lifted by first removing excess skin from beneath the nipple. The skin above the nipple is then pulled down and secured under the lifted breast tissue. The nipple is relocated, yet left intact throughout the procedure to preserve sensation and appearance. The removal of the excess loose skin allows for a raising and reshaping of the existing breast tissue.
Common concern about a breast lift: lost nipple function (breast-feeding) and sensation.
Although every attempt is made to limit damage to the nipple, as with any breast surgery, complications can arise. Breast lift procedures are typically recommended for patients who’s breast development has plateaued. Weight gain/loss, pregnancy and breast-feeding can have significant impacts on breast skin and tissue, which is why breast lifts are recommended following these milestones. Click here to learn more about breast lifts.
This is just a sampling of the breast treatments available at Oakville Plastic Surgery and Advanced Skincare. Dr. de Kleer also performs breast reconstructions for mastectomy patients as well as male breast reduction (gynecomastia) surgery. If breast surgery is something you’re considering, we invite you to book a professional consultation with Dr. Nancy de Kleer. Call (905) 901-9545 or email us at [email protected] today.
