McRae Plastic Surgery
MIillcroft Professional Center Unit 2, 4300 Upper Middle Road, Burlington, Ontario, L7M4P6
Mark McRae, MD
VERIFIED
Certified Plastic Surgeon
41 Questions Answered
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
MEET MARK MCRAE, MD
🩺11 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
I am a cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon that is board certified in both Canada and the United States. My areas of specialization are facial plastic surgery (facelift, eyelid surgery) and plastic surgery of the breast. I am Associate Professor of P
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QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Breast and areola asymmetry following unilateral breast reduction is a common concern for many women who have undergone this procedure. While breast reduction surgery aims to improve breast symmetry and proportion, it's important to understand that achieving perfect symmetry is not always possible.
In your particular case are you overall more symmetric in terms of your breast volume, breast shape, and nipple position?
When repositioning the nipple, a smaller areola is most often created. There are a range of sizes so you and your surgeon have some choice, but depending on the size you started with, a smaller size more likely. In a bilateral procedure the smaller areola is in most cases more aesthetic. Unfortunately when only one breast is operated on, this can result in areola assymetry.
The good news is that the areola size of your smaller breast can be made smaller, and repositioned if needed to further improve your symmetry. Some changes in breast shape can also be achieved if needed.
Make sure you discuss this with a board certified plastic surgeon and take the time to make sure all your questions are answered before proceeding.
Mark McRae, MD
Certified Plastic Surgeon
Hi there I hope this helps. This is a similar answer to one I provided to another women recently:
Predicting cup size in a breast reduction consultation is a common concern for many women seeking this procedure. However, it's essential to understand why accurately predicting cup size is not always feasible and why it shouldn't be the primary focus of the consultation.
First and foremost, cup size is a notoriously unreliable measurement of breast size. The concept of cup sizes can vary significantly between different bra manufacturers and even between different styles within the same brand. Factors such as band size, breast shape, and individual body proportions all contribute to how a bra fits and what cup size it corresponds to. Therefore, basing expectations solely on achieving a specific cup size can lead to disappointment and unrealistic goals.
During a breast reduction consultation, the focus should instead be on discussing your goals, concerns, and desired outcomes. A skilled and experienced plastic surgeon will assess factors such as breast volume, symmetry, nipple position, and overall breast shape to develop a personalized surgical plan that addresses the patient's unique needs. This plan may include removing excess breast tissue, reshaping the breasts, and repositioning the nipples to achieve a more proportionate and aesthetically pleasing result.
A good rule of thumb is that the breasts will be reduced by about half of their current size in a breast reduction. Some patient will say that is too much, others will say that is too little. It is helpful when trying to figure out whether someone is looking for a reduction or a lift. However in general this approach leaves enough tissue to recreate a pleasing aesthetic and keep the breast size harmonious with the rest of the body as we mature. Now no 2 patients are alike, but that is why this is simply a rule of thumb.
Additionally, predicting cup size after breast reduction surgery is further complicated by the fact that breast size can change over time due to factors such as weight fluctuations, hormonal changes, and pregnancy. While the goal of breast reduction surgery is to create long-lasting results, it's important to recognize that individual outcomes can vary, and some degree of unpredictability is inherent in any surgical procedure. In your case you should wait 6 months after completion of breast feeding to get an accurate reading of the volume of your breasts. Again variable but many women will deflate further.
Instead of focusing on cup size, focus on communicating your desired aesthetic outcome and trusting the surgeon's expertise to achieve the best possible results. Make sure you connect well, look at their before and afters, and see if you like their aesthetic. By approaching the consultation with realistic expectations and a collaborative mindset, you can work together with your surgeon to create a surgical plan that aligns with your goals and delivers a satisfying outcome that enhances both physical appearance and your quality of life.
Mark McRae, MD
Certified Plastic Surgeon
H cup hoping to achieve C cup - can this be done with a reduction alone? (photo)
Asked By:AnonymousANSWERS (1)Predicting cup size in a breast reduction consultation is a common concern for many women seeking this procedure. However, it's essential to understand why accurately predicting cup size is not always feasible and why it shouldn't be the primary focus of the consultation.
First and foremost, cup size is a notoriously unreliable measurement of breast size. The concept of cup sizes can vary significantly between different bra manufacturers and even between different styles within the same brand. Factors such as band size, breast shape, and individual body proportions all contribute to how a bra fits and what cup size it corresponds to. Therefore, basing expectations solely on achieving a specific cup size can lead to disappointment and unrealistic goals.
During a breast reduction consultation, the focus should instead be on discussing your goals, concerns, and desired outcomes. A skilled and experienced plastic surgeon will assess factors such as breast volume, symmetry, nipple position, and overall breast shape to develop a personalized surgical plan that addresses the patient's unique needs. This plan may include removing excess breast tissue, reshaping the breasts, and repositioning the nipples to achieve a more proportionate and aesthetically pleasing result.
A good rule of thumb is that the breasts will be reduced by about half of their current size in a breast reduction. Some patient will say that is too much, others will say that is too little. It is helpful when trying to figure out whether someone is looking for a reduction or a lift. However in general this approach leaves enough tissue to recreate a pleasing aesthetic and keep the breast size harmonious with the rest of the body as we mature. Now no 2 patients are alike, but that is why this is simply a rule of thumb.
Additionally, predicting cup size after breast reduction surgery is further complicated by the fact that breast size can change over time due to factors such as weight fluctuations, hormonal changes, and pregnancy. While the goal of breast reduction surgery is to create long-lasting results, it's important to recognize that individual outcomes can vary, and some degree of unpredictability is inherent in any surgical procedure. In your case you should wait 6 months after completion of breast feeding to get an accurate reading of the volume of your breasts. Again variable but many women will deflate further.
Instead of focusing on cup size, focus on communicating your desired aesthetic outcome and trusting the surgeon's expertise to achieve the best possible results. Make sure you connect well, look at their before and afters, and see if you like their aesthetic. By approaching the consultation with realistic expectations and a collaborative mindset, you can work together with your surgeon to create a surgical plan that aligns with your goals and delivers a satisfying outcome that enhances both physical appearance and your quality of life.
Mark McRae, MD
Certified Plastic Surgeon
Is there any way to tell if my plastic surgeon preserved the milk ducts during my inverted T reduction?
Asked By:AnonymousANSWERS (1)The ability to breastfeed after breast reduction surgery varies greatly among individuals and depends on several factors. While some women can successfully breastfeed after the procedure, many will encounter challenges or find it impossible. Even with meticulous technique, reducing the breast will reduce your ability to successfully breast feed.
The extent of breast tissue removal during the surgery is a key factor. If the milk ducts and nerves are minimally affected, there's a higher chance of being able to breastfeed. These challenges can include insufficient milk production, issues with milk letdown, or difficulties with latching.
Damage to the milk ducts and nerves during the procedure impact milk production and flow. Women who are considering breast reduction surgery and wish to breastfeed in the future should discuss this with their surgeon beforehand. Surgeons can provide insight into the potential impact of the surgery on breastfeeding and may employ techniques to preserve breastfeeding function. I tell all women that have a strong desire to fully nourish their child with breast milk, to delay breast reduction until after children.
Seeking support from lactation consultants, breastfeeding support groups, or healthcare providers experienced in breastfeeding after breast surgery can be invaluable. They can offer guidance, support, and practical strategies to address breastfeeding challenges and optimize the breastfeeding experience.
The ability to breastfeed after breast reduction surgery varies from person to person, and it's essential to approach the decision with realistic expectations and a supportive network in place. Ultimately a fed baby is the most important thing. Even if you have less supply, and have to supplement on top of breast feeding, you and your baby may still see many of the benefits of breast feeding.
Mark McRae, MD
Certified Plastic Surgeon
Festoons and lower bleph - are fillers or fat grafting better alternatives? (Photo)
Asked By:AnonymousANSWERS (1)This is a difficult problem and you will get incremental improvements with lower blepharoplasty, and fat grafting, but complete resolution will likely require some direct excision of the festoon itself.
One of my favourite lower blepharoplasty techniques blends the orbital fat with the cheek fat and improved the transition between the lid and cheek. The festoon however is below this transition point and will not completely disappear. Fat grafting can also fill in hollowing of the midface and you will see some benefit with that in your case also. But not complete resolution
Nonetheless the festoons will still be present (with some improvement). At that point a direct excision of what remains is required to remove the skin excess at that location on the cheek.
It is a big step to accept a scar on the cheek. It is much easier to accept a scar on the cheek in older people with more rhytids and sun changes that hide the scar. However the scar will fade with time and good skin care. And right now the demarcation causes a major shadow- a fine scar will be far less noticeable.
Hopefully this picture was taken at a point in time when you still had some inflammation that may improve more.
I hope you find this helpful. I certainly have treated many patients with this and it takes time to make sure patients understand what improvements surgery will provide. Having knowledge of the process and a step wise approach, as well as a knowledge of the pros and cons should help you as you choose your path forward.
Mark McRae, MD
Certified Plastic Surgeon
Is a facelift appropriate for a young 24 year old patient if they lost an extreme amount of weight (150lbs)? (Photo)
Asked By:AnonymousANSWERS (1)Congratulations on achieving such significant weight loss
Losing weight does result in less volume within the facial fat compartments, and can contribute to signs of aging.
That said, based on the concerns listed, facelift surgery would only be able to help address some of them.
The facelift typically targets the lower face, jawline, and nasolabial folds.
The forehead is addressed in browlift surgeries as well as non surgical modalities.
The area around the eyes (peri orbital) is typically treated with blepharoplasty surgery. If the bags under the eyes are noticeable this can be a very effective surgery.
Particularly in men the mid face over time faces more fat atrophy than in women at the same stage of life. Fillers or fat transfer can be considered in these cases as additional procedures to help address soft tissue or fat pad deficiencies if they exist. This can be as a complement to a facelift, or on its own.
I would not be able to make a recommendation for facelift surgery in your case based on the photos provided here at this stage. However an in person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon would be worthwhile to help explore your options.
In terms of droopy lips- an upper lip lift can be considered as the distance between the nose and the upper lip increases with time. I don't think he yet meets criteria for this intervention. He still has a relatively youthful distance based on the photo provided so I would advise him to wait for that.
Congratulations on this inspiring health journey.
Mark McRae, MD
Certified Plastic Surgeon
Facelift and neck lift surgery does a wonderful job targeting the lower face and neck for reversible signs of aging. Some of these signs are present in your photographs. Delaying surgery as long as possible is always a good idea, however it sounds as though you are ready for more definitive treatment than can be offered with non surgical modalities.
A good face/neck lift surgery will improve your jaw line definition significantly, treat the jowls, and provide more definition to the neck. Depending on your goals, and concerns, you can consider other treatments for the skin and other regions of the face.
Unfortunately surgery does not prevent further aging as time marches on.
It would be very reasonable to seek a consultation to discuss your options with a board certified plastic surgeon at this stage.
Mark McRae, MD
Certified Plastic Surgeon
As it turns out every single person in the world has facial asymmetry. As a craniofacial surgeon I see this in everyone I examine. I see this asymmetry in most cases as beautiful, unique, and usually not something that I recommend addressing with surgery.
Put in a google search for: George Clooney Facial Symmetry. It is a wonderful lesson to see how George Clooney, a very attractive man, has facial asymmetry just like the rest of us.
If you do have specific concerns, make sure you consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to get advice that you can trust.
Mark McRae, MD
Certified Plastic Surgeon
Dear Intelligent 133927,
My advice is to rank your areas of concern and to go with the area of highest concern first. There are many reasons why surgeries may be delayed and so go first with the one that is your highest priority.
In my opinion your timeline is not realistic and I would recommend separating these two procedures with several months in between. At a minimum 6 weeks. You really want to be fully recovered before surgery #2.
You are right the 2 surgeries should not be combined as the time under anaesthesia would be quite long, and lengthy surgery puts you at a higher risk for complications. It would not be worthwhile.
In terms of time in between the surgeries:
Any kind of recovery delay or even a minor complication from surgery #1 would require you to cancel surgery 2. You may be back to normal activities 2 weeks after facelift, but another surgery is not a normal activity. Surgery is a major stress on your body.
The safest way is always the best way. Start with priority 1, and leave priority 2 for another time. Your surgeon should still be available whenever you are able to get more time off.
Mark McRae, MD
Certified Plastic Surgeon
Persistent inflammation and intermittent swelling 6 months post facelift
Asked By:AnonymousANSWERS (1)It is quite unfortunate to have persistent pain and swelling after facelift.
In terms of pain:
Pain is quite rare but will improve with non surgical modalities. Pain may not necessarily be improved by surgery and in some cases revision surgery can make pain syndromes worse.
If the pain can be localized to a very discrete location, you may have a neuroma and that can be improved either with therapy, or with surgery. Your surgeon will be able to help you determine that.
If you are one of the very rare cases after any surgery or trauma where a pain syndrome may be present, your best bet is to be referred to a pain management team that can help address your pain from multiple modalities. Some modalities may be invasive (such as injections and blocks), and others such as psychologists that can help you navigate and overcome pain.
Saint Joseph’s Hamilton has an incredible pain management team with a wealth of resources available to you.
Massage therapy may be helpful to desensitize and help the nerves adjust. Other modalities such as acupuncture and muscle stim systems have also been found helpful if you have this kind of condition in other areas of the body and so may benefit you also.
Unfortunately revision surgery may improve your appearance, but it may not be able to address your pain. However with the right help you should be able to make improvements over time.
Mark McRae, MD
Certified Plastic Surgeon
Mark McRae, MD reviews
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Compassionate407297
I Had an Wonderful Experience and Very Happy with the Decision I Made
Dr. MacRae takes pride in his work. He listened to what I was looking for and accomplished giving me exactly the best outcome. He truly is someone I would recommend. I asked about another procedure and without hesitation he gave me a consultation . I will be back for another procedure as I trust in him and his team. Thank you!
Fantastic445258
Highly Recommend Dr. Mark Mcrae
I had a breast reduction/lift a few months ago with Dr. Mark McRae. He made me feel very comfortable throughout the entire procedure and gave adequate instructions on how to help with recovery. I went from a 30K to a 30E, which is more than half of my original size. The pain in my shoulders and neck are gone. I used to not be able to walk or stand for too long without having to lie down to relieve myself of the pain. Now I can hike for hours without any issue! I also fit into things now as my body is much more proportional. Tamara was amazing with communication and making me feel comfortable, and the hospital staff were also great. Overall a great and life-changing experience.
Mimi301495
Great Experience!
My consultation was back in August of 2023, I was confident that Dr. Mark McRae was the right choice for me. His wealth of knowledge, compassion and gentle spirit stood out to me. My surgery happened January 29, 2024 and I am about 3 weeks post op. I am healing amazing and really happy with my results thus far. The nurse that came to see me for my drains was very professional and friendly. I had a great experience overall and I would highly recommend if you are looking for a skilled and well qualified surgeon. Thank you so much! You are the best!!!
Response from Dr.Mark McRae, MDthank you for your review!
Powerful730822
5-star breast reduction with Dr. McRae from 1st appointment to final follow-up
I had a 5-star experience with Dr. McRae. From my first appointment to my final follow-up, I couldn't have asked for better, more personal care. I am also thrilled with my results. I was nervous at first, but he and his residents kept me completely at ease the whole way thorough. I opted to pay for my surgery because, once I made up my mind to proceed, I didn't want to wait for OHIP to grant the approval. The facility and staff where the surgery was done were both impecable. I would not hesitate to consult with Dr. McRae again.
Response from Dr.Mark McRae, MDThank you very much for your review!
Genius809178
I never felt judged or uncomfortable
My experience with dr McRae was beyond what I expected, I was able to have my pre Op appointments and surgery all within 3 months and my recovery has been great. Everyone was so kind and supportive I never felt judged or uncomfortable. I would 100% recommend him.
Response from Dr.Mark McRae, MDWe are so happy to have been a part of your health journey
Joyce.Redwood
Dr. McRae changed my life, 38M to 36DD, bilateral breast reduction with lipo
I cannot say enough good things about Dr Mark McRae and his team. I received a bilateral breast reduction with lipo suction this past October, I went from a 38M to a 36DD and I am unbelievably happy. I have not had breasts this small since 8th grade. (I’ve included a comparison photo below but it truly doesn’t give Dr. McRae’s work enough justice) Mark did such an amazing job with the surgery itself but the entire process was incredible. I was initially referred by my family doctor as I was having chronic back and neck pain which caused me chronic migraines. I was given my first appointment within a month of my referral being sent. Dr McRae was so incredible our first meeting and made sure I understood everything about the procedure before moving forward. I initially met Dr McRae near the end 2021 but due to some variables on my side, I wasn’t able to do my surgery until October of this year (2023). Throughout this process his staff constantly checked in with me and answered any silly little questions I had. The healing process was very very smooth and I knew exactly what to expect before I got home, as an anxious person Dr McRae and his team did an excellent job of calming those anxieties before they could even happen. They are very speedy on getting back to any communications so I never felt left in the dark when I called, even when it was a silly concern. I truly cannot recommend Dr Mark McRae enough, his work is absolutely beautiful, him and his team are absolutely amazing, and I cannot think of a SINGLE negative thing in this entire process. Dr Mark McRae gave me a body that I FINALLY feel at home in, and I cannot thank him enough. I spent my entire life hiding my chest and being ashamed and over-sexualized because of my breast size. Now I am SO happy with my body and I have an insane amount of true confidence for one of the first times in my life. I only regret not doing the surgery sooner. Thank you Dr McRae and his team, I truly truly truly appreciate you all so much and can never thank you enough for the gift you’ve given me.
Response from Dr.Mark McRae, MDIt was our privilege to help improve your life!
dobson1963
The overall experience was fantastic - I have my confidence back
I would highly recommend Dr. McRae, as he was very professional. The overall experience was fantastic, as I have my confidence back. After being diagnosed with breast cancer I had to have a mastectomy which did not go well. This is when I did my research and found Doctor Mark McRae who turned a bad situation into a wonderful situation. I met with Doctor McRae , and knew my research had work out. I found him to be very kind, and he took the time to answer any of my concerns. as he is very knowledgeable. The different is that Doctor McRae listen, as he truly cares, and want to see his patients happy. This has been a long journey for myself. Though I can honestly say I didn't give up due to the fact I trusted Dr. McRae, and he made the difference, as I am smiling more than ever now.The results are amazing along with Dr. McRae, as I would highly recommend him as he has a lot of experience at what he does. Very qualified to do the surgery as he checks on his patient with follow up , and on time appointments. A wonderful Surgeon overall 10 out of 10. Rhonda-Maver-Dobson
Response from Dr.Mark McRae, MDWe are very grateful for your kind words
David J W
Fifteen Years Younger in 4 Hours!
Excellent! Dr. Mark is incredible. Fellow athlete as I once was. Removing my turkey neck, which was a hereditary issue my whole family lives with. Not me now. No more jokes in the locker room. His whole staff are professional and friendly. Cheri my recovery room nurse was awesome. Can't say enough about the whole procedure. Don't wait, life is too short. Give Dr. McRae a call. You will not be disappointed.
Response from Dr.Mark McRae, MDthank you for this review!
Friendly270571
Fully recommend - 3 months post-op facelift & very happy
My experience from my first consultation through to my aftercare was amazing. Dr. McRae is easy to converse with and takes the time to answer any/all questions or concerns in order to make you feel comfortable with the process. He is very responsive, and his staff is wonderful - I felt like I was in good hands. I am extremely happy with not only my experience but with the outcome of my surgery. I would fully recommend Dr. McRae - not only because he is a talented surgeon but because he is a sincere and caring doctor.
Response from Dr.Mark McRae, MDthank you for your review, this is so helpful for our patients and our team.
Trustworthy155974
Kindness and competence were immediately apparent
I immediately felt comfortable with Dr. McRae. His kindness and competence were immediately apparent. He spoke to my concerns and let me know what to expect. I had implants that had been recalled. They had been in for 25 years. He did not know what he'd find in there, as I had so little of my own tissue, so he coached me through the possibilities. There would be decisions made during surgery, and by the end of our first meeting, I trusted him completely to make the right choices. After surgery, he sent me a text to let me know that I could reach out directly to him with any questions. I used that text and he responded quickly and comprehensively. When you have a part of you that makes you feel less than normal, finding the right person to walk you trough the process is vital. I am so happy that I found Dr. Mark McRae and I would highly recommend his services.
Response from Dr.Mark McRae, MDthank you for your trust and we greatly appreciate your review!
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