Women with large breasts experience more than dissatisfaction with body image – they may experience physical pain and discomfort. Overly large breasts and the weight of excess breast tissue can cause pain and physical conditions that impair a woman’s ability to lead an active life. The emotional discomfort and self-consciousness often associated with having large breasts is as important an issue to many women as the physical discomfort and pain.
Who is a Breast Reduction Candidate?
- If you want to eliminate the following conditions, breast reduction may be right for you:
- Back, neck and shoulder pain caused by the weight of excess breast tissue
- Shoulder indentation from bra straps
- Restricted physical activity
- Skin irritation beneath the breast crease
- Sagging, stretched skin and a low breast profile where, when unsupported, the nipple rests below the breast crease
- An enlarged areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple) caused by stretched skin
What is a Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with a woman’s body and to alleviate the discomfort associated with overly large breasts. In general, breast reduction surgery will not only correct the functional symptoms associated with large breasts, but will also result in better proportioned breasts. Breast reduction can be performed unilaterally (on one breast) or bilaterally (on both breasts). It is generally considered a reconstructive procedure and may be covered by health insurance when it is performed to relieve medical symptoms. Pre-certification is often required for reimbursement or coverage.
Who is a Breast Reduction Candidate?
Breast reduction can be performed at any age; however it is best performed when the breasts are fully developed. Because significant amounts of breast tissue are removed, breast reduction surgery may impair the ability to breastfeed. Changes in the breasts during pregnancy can alter the outcomes of a previous surgery, as can significant weight fluctuation.
What Results Can I Expect?
The final results of breast reduction will appear over a few months as breast shape and position continue to settle. Incision lines will improve over time and can be hidden under most swimsuits. Your new size should free you from pain and physical limitations experienced prior to breast reduction. Your better proportioned figure will likely enhance your self-image and boost your self-confidence. Breast reduction is considered permanent although, over time, your breasts may continue to change due to weight fluctuations, aging and gravity.