Breast reduction in Alberta is a procedure that removes excess breast tissue. The reduction surgery can result in a more proportionate appearance of the breasts.
The cost of breast reduction surgery depends on several factors including the size of the patient’s breasts, their age and physical condition, and whether they have any other medical conditions that may need to be addressed prior to or during the procedure. In this guide, we find out How much does breast reduction cost in alberta, how to qualify for breast reduction alberta, breast reduction surgery cost calgary, and breast reduction calgary alberta health care coverage.
Breast reduction, or a breast lift, is a procedure that removes excess skin and fatty tissue around the breast. It can be done to reduce the appearance of sagging breasts or can be used to correct asymmetry of the nipple, which may be caused by breast cancer.
Breast reduction surgery costs vary depending on the area of your body being treated, how much skin you have to remove and whether you are receiving anesthesia.
The average cost of breast reduction surgery in Alberta is $5,000-$8,000.
How much does breast reduction cost in alberta
If you need a guide to where you can get breast reduction surgery, you’ve come to the right place. Ahead, we round up a list of the best clinics to visit for breast reduction in Calgary.
Before we go into the details for each clinic, though, it’s best that we talk about the costs first. That way, you’ll have an idea of what you’re in for when it comes to this procedure.
How Much Does a Breast Reduction Cost in Calgary?
If you’re getting the procedure done purely for cosmetic reasons, it can come with a hefty price tag. Breast reductions in Calgary can cost anywhere between $6000 to $9500.
However, thanks to Alberta’s provincial health insurance, there is an exception. If you can prove that having a larger chest is negatively impacting your health or can lead to future health issues, your insurance may cover the procedure.
In order to qualify for insurance coverage, you must consult a general physician and secure a referral.
The Best Clinics for Breast Reduction in Calgary
Now you’re aware of the price range and potential insurance coverage, let’s dive right into our list of the best clinics for breast reduction in Calgary!
1. Dr. Farrah Yau, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
Prior to setting up an independent clinic, Canadian and American-board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Farrah Yau completed her studies at some of Canada’s top institutions.
She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Calgary, graduated from a Medical Doctorate program at the University of Alberta, then completed her residency in plastic surgery at the University of Canada.
After years of post-graduate training, Dr. Yau set up her own practice in Calgary. Today, Dr. Yau specializes in facelifts and breast operations like lifts, reductions and reconstructive surgery for cancer patients.
Having performed thousands of these surgeries, Dr. Yau has earned herself a loyal client base—as well as a reputation as one of the best doctors for breast reductions in Calgary.
Her patients, who credit her for “changing their lives,” speak highly of how she advises them of what to watch out for, associated risks and the like. Good, since transparency is crucial when you’re putting your life in someone’s hands.
Dr. Yau’s patients also note that she is not one to beat around the bush. She presents information as is, which many will appreciate.
However, several patients have also complained about her matter-of-factness, calling out a lack of warmth and bedside manner during a nerve-racking procedure.
Check out some reviews from Dr. Farrah Yau’s previous patients. While reviews are anonymous, you may find them in abundance on Dr. Yau’s RateMD page.
“I had a major reduction in Jan. 2017. I am so thrilled with my new breasts. I cannot even imagine having any other surgeon.” —Anonymous
“I am very pleased with my outcome after breast reduction, Dr. Yau was very kind and did a great job! My first appointment she showed me how the procedure would happen, how I could expect the results to look, and showed me examples. The day of surgery she again went over everything, and ensured I was on the same page as her before we went in. At my follow up she made sure everything was healing well, and I had no issues post-op with healing or infection.” —Anonymous
2. Macleod Trail Plastic Surgery
Macleod Trail Plastic Surgery is a private surgical centre, separate from the traditional hospital setting. Here, they have specialized rooms, state-of-the-art equipment and safety facilities made specifically for plastic surgery patients.
The team is led by three seasoned plastic surgeons, each of whom has earned their stripes and client loyalty. All three are also very experienced in breast reduction procedures.
One of them is Dr. Paul Whidden, who is also co-owner of Macleod Trail Plastic Surgery. He’s recognized as one of the best plastic surgeons in Calgary.
He graduated from Queen’s University of Ontario, earned a medical degree and completed his residency at the University and Alberta. He is now a member of various plastic surgery societies.
Dr. Douglas Humphreys, on the other hand, attended the University of Saskatchewan and completed a residency in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery thereafter. Beyond his extensive training, patients have praised Dr. Humphreys because of his top-notch client care and customized surgical plans.
Dr. Brett Byers completes the trio of surgeons at Macleod Trail. Like Dr. Whidden and Dr. Humphreys, he has successfully completed countless breast reductions.
If you’re curious to see the outcomes of Macleod Trail Plastic Surgery’s past procedures, their website has a rich gallery of breast reduction cases. Each case includes important specifics like the patient’s age, height, weight and pre- and post-op images.
Considering Macleod Trail Plastic Surgery for your breast reduction? Here’s what previous patients have to say about their experience.
“I was at the clinic last week for a consultation with Dr. Byers. I had a very positive experience. The staff was very nice and helpful. Especially his assistant Mrs. Cole. I strongly recommend giving them a visit if you are looking for a great plastic surgeon.” —Michelle Gregersen
“Dr.Whidden is professional but approachable. I was very comfortable with him from my consultation to my surgery. The entire staff including the front end, nurses and anesthesiologist are all exceptional. I had no complications, I am very happy with my results and have no complaints. I would definitely recommend Dr.Whidden and Macleod Trail Plastic Surgery.” —Amanda Murphy
3. Ryan C. Frank, MD, FRCS(C)
A true, blue Calgarian, Dr. Ryan C. Frank set up his individual practice in his hometown after completing medical school and plastic surgery residency at the University of Calgary. In addition to these credentials, he also had a pediatric and cosmetic surgical fellowship at the University of California.
Today, Dr. Frank is affiliated with a number of highly regarded medical institutions. Among these are the Canadian Medical Association, Alberta Medical Association, and the Canaidan Society of Plastic Surgery.
While Dr. Frank offers face, body and skin services, most patients go to him for breast operations. He has been praised not only for his skills in the operating room, but for his bedside manner as well.
Dr. Frank and his staff ensure that patients are comfortable and aware of the implications, risks and steps involved in the breast reduction process. In fact, on his website, you’ll find informative blog posts that can help you identify exactly the kind of service you might need.
Check out some customer reviews from Dr. Frank’s previous patients.
“A couple of key things that I looked for when choosing a surgeon is: level of experience, bedside manner and overall cleanliness of their office space.
Dr. Frank checked off all of these boxes and I felt very comfortable booking my procedure with him. He listened to my concerns and made insightful recommendations and I’m extremely pleased with the outcome.” —Cara
“Dr Frank and his staff were amazing from consultation to procedure. I had my procedure two days ago and zero discomfort, no pain and no bruising. I highly recommend him and his team!” —Shane G.
4. The Institute of Wellness x Advanced Aesthetics
Dr. Jonathan Lee, one of the best plastic surgeons in Calgary prior to his passing, was once the lead surgeon at The Institute of Wellness x Advanced Aesthetics. Continuing his legacy, the Institute continues to operate with a team of specialists Dr. Lee worked with and respected.
The Institute of Wellness x Advanced Aesthetics currently has two surgeons on its roster: Dr. Farrah Yau, who has established her own practice, and Dr Jevon J.Y. Brown.
You may read up on Dr. Farrah Yau’s extensive background in plastic surgery above (see the first clinic on this list!). Meanwhile, Dr. Brown is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who earned his degree and residency at the University of Calgary.
In addition to these surgeons, this clinic is among the cleanest and most aesthetically pleasing in the city. Entering the Institute feels like walking into a spa, which can do plenty to soothe pre-op jitters. Not to mention, their staff are just as attentive and caring as those at wellness centres!
Before paying The Institute of Wellness x Advanced Aesthetics a visit, check out these customer reviews:
“Dr. Yau and her team were absolutely fantastic. I had no prior experience with surgeries and was a little apprehensive about having surgery, but Dr. Yau was quick to reassure me that I had little to worry about. Dr. Yau made it known that she cares a lot for her patients, has an incredible attention to detail, and made sure that I was comfortable and satisfied with my procedure. The rest of the team at IWAA was also amazing as they always made me feel welcome in the clinic and were always available to answer any of my questions.” —Colin Mueller
“I can’t say enough good things about the company and people there. They were professional, friendly, and really made me feel comfortable (this was my first experience with services like this). I will definitely be returning.” —Asylum Harley
5. Dr. Mark Haugrud
Dr. Mark Haugrud obtained his medical degree at the University of Alberta. Thereafter, he completed his post-graduate fellowships in the United States.
He is affiliated with various medical associations, including the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons, the Alberta Society of Plastic Surgeons, and the Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons. In addition to having his own practice, he is also the site chief for plastic surgery at the Rockyview Hospital.
Having been in the business for several decades, Dr. Haugrud has conducted countless surgeries through the years. A testament to his work, reviews from patients he operated on in the early 2000s are available online—and they’re still happy with their breast surgery to this day.
In addition to the quality of his surgical work, patients also value the care Dr. Haugrud shows each and every patient he operates on. In addition to lengthy consultations prior to locking down an operation, previous patients also report that he personally calls them during their recovery to check in on their condition.
Here are a couple of reviews from Dr. Haugrud’s previous patients.
how to qualify for breast reduction alberta
A breast reduction, or reduction mammoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure to reduce the size of women’s breasts. In addition to physical pain and other symptoms, large breasts may also draw unwanted attention. This can affect a woman’s self-esteem and make her uncomfortable with her appearance. This procedure removes fat and glandular tissue from the breast while tightening skin to produce smaller breasts that are more comfortable and in better proportion to the rest of the body.
Whatever your reasons for surgery, Dr. Giuffre will guide you in conservative practice, while tailoring your procedure to meet your vision and treatment goals. Educating patients and making surgical recommendations based on his extensive experience is all part of creating an attractive and natural looking enhancement, while ensuring we are achieving your vision.
AM I A CANDIDATE FOR BREAST REDUCTION?
Women with large breasts who are unhappy with their appearance and/or want to treat symptoms such as back pain, breathing problems, and poor posture may benefit from breast reduction surgery.
The youngest age for breast reduction surgery is typically after full breast growth is complete (age 18-19); there is no limit to an older patient (this would depend on the patient’s general health in order to have a General Anesthetic).
Occasionally, the surgery is done on an adolescent before full breast growth is complete. If the breasts are extremely large, interfere physically, and impact psychologically, surgery may be done with the understanding that if the breasts continue to enlarge after surgery, a repeat breast reduction after full breast maturity may be necessary.
BREAST REDUCTION CONSULTATION
Whatever your reasons for breast reduction surgery, Dr. Giuffre personalizes the procedure according to your needs and treatment goals to enhance your natural silhouette.
Prior to your procedure, Dr. Giuffre will meet with you to discuss your goals and expectations for surgery. He will also review the details of your chosen procedure, the associated risks, and welcome any questions or concerns that you may have. This discussion is important, helping you to communicate your vision with your surgeon in order to achieve the results you desire. All post surgical results vary from patient to patient, as no two bodies respond to and heal from surgery identically.
Dr Giuffre will examine your breasts without a bra while assessing:
Exam for any masses or pathology
Each consultation is completely customized and designed with the individual patients goals in mind.
BREAST REDUCTION PROCEDURE
Dr. Giuffre performs breast lift procedures at a private surgical suite adjacent to his Meadowlark Health Centre Office. The breast reconstruction procedure lasts one to two hours and is performed with general anesthesia
The nipple areola and the breast will be elevated and reshaped into a more pleasing posture. The nipple areola is left attached to the breast in order to maintain circulation and sensation to the nipple. The breast tissue is removed and contoured within the skin incisions, which are closed with dissolving sutures. The breast shape and size will then be adjusted surgically. The nipple areola will be elevated to the correct position on the breast, leaving the blood and nerve supply intact. The breast tissue is shaped and then the incisions are closed with stitches underneath the skin. These sutures will dissolve.
In order to lift the breast, and reposition the nipple areola, three breast incisions must be made, which will leave a scar.
There will be a scar around the areola, where the dark and lighter skin join. This scar blends and fades.
There will be a scar in the breast crease, which is well hidden within the crease.
There will be a vertical scar from the bottom of the areola to the crease. This often looks like a stretch mark when fully healed.
BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY RECOVERY
Before waking from the surgery, Dr Giuffre will inject a long acting local anesthetic into the breast area to decrease any immediate breast discomfort from the surgery. When the freezing wears off, both the sub glandular and sub muscular implant operation will require post operative analgesic medication (pain killers) for up to a week. The discomfort typically subsides after the first two days following the surgery. Patients taking prescription pain medication should not drive a car or operate machinery or sign significant documents while taking this medication.
You will have to arrange a ride and aftercare with a responsible adult. You are not permitted to leave unaccompanied or in a taxi. If your driving distance from Edmonton exceeds 90 minutes, you should make arrangements to stay overnight in Edmonton. The surgical centre does not have an overnight care facility. You will then be seen the following day for dressing removal and assessment by Dr. Giuffre and his staff.
Dr. Giuffre provides his home phone number to his cosmetic patients in case there is a patient concern. In the rare instance that a patient requires hospitalization, Dr. Giuffre has admitting privileges to all of the major hospitals in Edmonton.
You will be seen the day following surgery by Dr.Giuffre and/or his nursing staff, and again within the week following your surgery by Dr Giuffre. Further follow up arrangements will be made at that time.
Most patients feel tired and sore after breast reduction surgery, but this usually passes in a day or two. Many patients return to work within the week. Any postoperative pain, swelling and sensitivity will diminish over the first few weeks. Scars from breast augmentation incisions will begin to fade in a few months, and will continue to fade for months or years.
BREAST REDUCTION RESULTS
Summary of generalized results a patient can expect. Would be good to circle this back to the customization of the treatment and expected results that Dr. G would discuss in a consult.
BREAST LIFT SURGERY RISKS
With any surgery, there are surgical and anesthetic risks. Aside from the rare risks of an anesthetic event, some of the general and specific surgical risks for this procedure would include:
Sensation changes to the Breast or Nipples
Circulation loss to the nipple – if you smoke, you must stop at least 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after surgery
**Patients at risk are those that smoke, have had radiation for breast cancer, and have an abnormal circulation pattern of the nipple.
Time off of work and exercise
Please note that this list is not complete. During the consultation with the patient, Dr. Giuffre will outline and explain each of the risks in detail
breast reduction surgery cost calgary
*Please note: You may be offered partial healthcare coverage for breast reduction surgery if you qualify medically. This will be determined at the time of your consultation. The fees for cosmetic breast reduction surgery are $18,209.10 and for breast reduction surgery with partial healthcare coverage the fees are $11,340.00.
Consultation Fees
There is a fee for the consultation that will be collected upon your arrival. This fee is for the consultation only and is not applied later to a surgery fee. We do not want you to feel any pressure to commit to having surgery. There is no fee for a second consultation or for any follow-up visits. Our consult fees are $210.00 tax inclusive. The consultation fee is not deducted from the surgical fees.
Payment Options
We accept payments by way of debit/credit card, bank draft, and e-transfer (use e-mail: surgerypayment@banffps.ca)
Financial and Cancellation Policies
25% of the total surgery fees is required at the time of scheduling your surgery. The balance is then due 4 weeks prior to surgery.
We allow one free change of surgery date initiated by the patient. There is a fee of $262.50 (tax inclusive) for any additional changes initiated by the patient.
If the patient cancels surgery at any time before one month prior to the scheduled surgery date the full deposit will be refunded. If surgery is cancelled 3-4 weeks prior to the date of surgery 50% of the total surgical fees will be refunded. If surgery is cancelled within 2 weeks of the surgery date full fees will be forfeited.
breast reduction calgary alberta health care coverage
Breast reduction surgery is a common and effective procedure for women who are experiencing physical and emotional discomfort due to the size of their breasts. In Calgary, Alberta, breast reduction surgery may be covered by the provincial healthcare insurance plan if it is deemed medically necessary. This means that eligible patients may have their procedure covered by Alberta Health Care, reducing or eliminating the cost of the surgery.
Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is typically performed under general anesthesia and involves removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to achieve a more proportionate breast size. The procedure can also alleviate physical symptoms such as back, neck, and shoulder pain, as well as improve self-esteem and body image.
To be eligible for breast reduction surgery under Alberta Health Care coverage, patients must meet certain criteria. The most common criteria include:
- Physical symptoms: Patients must be experiencing physical symptoms such as back, neck or shoulder pain, skin irritation or infection, and difficulty finding clothes that fit due to the size of their breasts.
- Conservative measures: Patients must have attempted non-surgical methods to alleviate their symptoms, such as weight loss or wearing a supportive bra, without success.
- BMI: Patients should have a body mass index (BMI) of less than 27. Patients with a higher BMI may still be considered for surgery but will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
- Breast size: The amount of breast tissue to be removed will be determined by the surgeon based on the patient’s specific needs and goals.
If you meet these criteria, you may be eligible for breast reduction surgery covered by Alberta Health Care. However, it is important to note that not all patients will qualify for coverage, and each case is evaluated on an individual basis.
To begin the process, you will need to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon who can assess your individual circumstances and determine whether you meet the criteria for the procedure. Your surgeon can also provide information about the cost of the procedure and whether your health insurance plan will cover any of the costs associated with the surgery.
In conclusion, breast reduction surgery can provide relief for women who are experiencing physical and emotional discomfort due to the size of their breasts. If you are considering breast reduction surgery and are a resident of Calgary, Alberta, it is important to understand the criteria for eligibility under Alberta Health Care coverage. By working with a qualified plastic surgeon and understanding your options, you can make an informed decision about the best course of action for your individual needs and goals.