About Breast Reduction

New Horizons Plastic Surgery, Dr. H. James Webb, FACS

Women with over-sized, sagging breasts in relation to their stature often suffer from a variety of medical problems, including severe headaches, neck and back pain and skeletal deformities. These medical problems may also limit many physical activities. In addition, both mature and adolescent women with breasts too large for their bodies can experience painful social embarrassment.

Breast reduction surgery can be performed after the breasts are fully developed, and, as with any surgery, carries certain risks. These risks are fully explained by Dr. Webb in the initial consultation. Breast reduction patients should also make a list of all their questions and concerns to discuss in the consultation, such as costs, insurance, desired breast size, etc. After a thorough examination of your breasts, Dr. Webb will discuss all aspects of the procedure, making you completely aware of possibilities, limitations, risks, benefits and the recovery process, as well as any scarring that may result. Dr. Webb recognizes that each patient has her own unique circumstances, and in some cases it may be necessary to require a mammogram be performed before surgery.

Is breast reduction surgery right for me?

While the majority of women who want to enhance their breasts often think about increasing in size, many could benefit from a breast reduction, or reduction mammoplasty. Some women suffer from a condition called breast hypertrophy that can develop during puberty, with weight gain, or during pregnancy. Medically, there are a number of reasons why a woman would want to reduce the size of her breasts. Oversized or disproportionate breasts can often lead to serious health issues, including:

Extreme back and neck pain
Severe headaches
Skeletal deformities
Decreased mobility
Difficulty breathing
Sleep disruptions
Hygiene problems
Skin irritation and chafing

No woman should have to let these medical issues take over her life and keep her from doing the activities and living the life she desires.

Social, Emotional, and Personal Concerns

Oversized or disproportionate breasts can also lead to non-medical, but no less debilitating social problems. Finding comfortable or well-fitting clothing can be an almost impossible challenge, while the pain from bra straps might be too much to handle. Plus, the social stigmatization can be just as painful, with breast reduction surgery providing a much-needed boost to self-esteem, confidence, and appearance. The improvement in size and shape, often accompanied by a breast lift in conjunction with the breast reduction, can significantly improve almost every aspect of a woman's life, giving her back the life she used to lead.

The Procedure for You

If the size of your breasts is causing any or all of the physical and emotional pain listed above, you might be a candidate for breast reduction surgery. Breast reductions are best performed on women with fully matured breasts, since if the breasts have not completed growing, a follow-up procedure may be necessary.

Gynecomastia

One of the most popular male cosmetic surgeries is gynecomastia reduction. Gynecomastia is a condition in which a man's breasts overdevelop, leading to larger, over-sized breasts that resemble female breasts.

Breast reduction surgery is the only known way of relieving gynecomastia, which affects between 40-60% of men. If you suffer from gynecomastia and its related health and esteem issues, you may be a candidate for breast reduction surgery.

Before and After Pictures

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The content of this page is for informational purposes only and shouldn't be taken as medical advice. If you need personalized medical advice, please schedule a consultation with New Horizons Plastic Surgeon Dr. Webb.