If you’ve ever considered having smaller breasts to feel more at ease, you’re not alone. While many women choose breast implants for a larger cup size, skilled surgeons also perform breast reduction surgeries. For women with larger breasts, this procedure can greatly improve their quality of life.
“Breast reduction surgery can be transformative for women dealing with the physical and emotional challenges caused by overly large breasts,” says Dr. Heidi Harrington, board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon at Beaufort Memorial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics. “Reducing the size of the breasts and reshaping them can alleviate physical discomfort, enhance self-esteem and elevate overall well-being.”
Read More: Breast Pain: Causes, Symptoms and How to Find Relief
What is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure where a certified plastic surgeon removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin to reduce breast size. This procedure differs from a mastectomy and isn’t performed due to breast cancer. However, medical reasons such as chronic pain in the back, shoulders or neck can make a breast reduction necessary.
During the surgery, the surgeon makes incisions around the nipple and areola, extending down and following the natural contour of the breast. Through these incisions, excess tissue is removed, and the remaining breast tissue is reshaped to create a more balanced and lifted appearance. The nipple and areola are often repositioned to match the new breast size and shape. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, typically lasting between two to five hours depending on the extent of the reduction.
Read More: Know Your Lemons: How to Do a Breast Self-Exam
Benefits of Breast Reduction
Breast reduction surgery offers many benefits, and different women pursue the procedure for various reasons. Some common benefits include:
- Better-fitting clothes: Women with larger breasts often struggle to find clothes that fit properly. A breast reduction creates a more proportionate silhouette, making it easier to shop for well-fitting clothing.
- Easier physical activity: Large breasts can make physical activities, such as exercising or participating in sports, uncomfortable and challenging. After the surgery, many women find it easier to engage in these activities.
- Improved sleep quality: Large breasts can make it difficult to sleep comfortably. After breast reduction, many women experience improved sleep quality.
- Better breathing: In some cases, the weight of large breasts can make breathing harder, especially when lying down. Breast reduction can alleviate this pressure and help you breathe more easily.
- Improved posture: The weight of large breasts can cause slumping, leading to poor posture and discomfort. After the surgery, you may find it easier to stand up straight, reducing back pain and improving your overall alignment.
- Increased self-confidence: Many women with larger breasts feel self-conscious about their appearance. Following a breast reduction, women often experience improved self-esteem and body confidence.
- Reduced skin irritation: The skin underneath large breasts can become irritated, causing rashes or chafing. Reducing the size of the breasts can eliminate or reduce these issues.
- Relief from physical pain: Many women seek breast reduction to relieve chronic back, neck and shoulder pain caused by the weight of large breasts. Studies have shown that a significant number of women experience improved back pain after surgery.
Read More: Coping With Chronic Back Pain
Is Breast Reduction Right for You?
Although breast reduction can greatly enhance your quality of life, it’s important to ask yourself a few key questions before deciding to proceed with the surgery:
- Are you experiencing physical pain or discomfort from the size of your breasts?
- Is the size of your breasts impacting your health or limiting your ability to exercise?
- Do you feel that your breast size is affecting your body image or self-esteem?
- If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, you might be a good candidate for breast reduction. Additional factors to consider include:
- Have you completed puberty? (Breast reduction is typically not recommended until after puberty, as the breast tissue may still be developing.)
- Are you planning to become pregnant or breastfeed in the future? (Pregnancy and breastfeeding can alter the size and shape of the breasts post-surgery.)
- Are you currently undergoing weight loss treatments or planning bariatric surgery? (Some women may benefit from breast reduction during weight loss, while others may prefer to wait until they’ve reached their goal weight.)
There are also potential risks with breast reduction, including blood clots, infection and changes in breast or nipple sensation. Your surgeon will review your medical history to ensure you’re a suitable candidate and will discuss potential risks with you.
“Breast reduction surgery is generally very safe with a low risk of complications,” Dr. Harrington states. “In many cases, health insurance may cover the cost of breast reduction if it is deemed medically necessary to alleviate pain.”
Read More: Help for Back and Neck Pain: Is Surgery Always Necessary?
Recovering From Breast Reduction Surgery
Recovery after breast reduction surgery typically takes several weeks. Immediately after the procedure, you’ll wear a surgical bra to support your breasts and minimize swelling. You may experience some pain, bruising, swelling and changes in sensation. Most patients can return to work within two to three weeks but should avoid strenuous activities for four to six weeks. A supportive bra should be worn at all times to assist with healing.
It is normal for your breasts to look different in the initial weeks following surgery. After three months, you should notice a more natural appearance. By three to six months, your body will have fully adjusted to your new breast shape and size.
If you’re contemplating whether breast reduction surgery could enhance your life, it’s important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can answer your questions and explain your options. Every woman’s body and situation is unique, and an experienced healthcare professional can guide you in making an informed decision about whether breast reduction surgery is the right choice for you.
Learn more about plastic surgery services at Beaufort Memorial or call 843-707-8020 to schedule an appointment.
