Sunday, April 4, 2010

What is breast reduction surgery?

Most women are finding their breasts oversized and are seeking to reduce them by using breast reduction surgery. Oversized breasts are a condition that is medically known as breast hypertrophy.  This condition usually happens in both breasts and during puberty or soon afterward.


Moms also complain about enlarged breasts. This is because during pregnancy, breasts tend to over-enlarge, and then the enlargement continues. In some cases, breast enlargements happen suddenly. But such cases are quite rare.


Thanks to the advancement in medical science, doctors can now perform breast reduction surgery that is both safe and effective. It reduces the size of very large breasts and can also cure any physical discomfort associated with the weight and strain of large drooping breasts. This is actually a major concern for women. Breast reduction is not only performed as a cosmetic surgery that focuses on better appearance, but if the size of over-enlarged breasts are not reduced, it may lead to discomfort and various other medical complications as well.


So the surgery intends to make the breasts smaller while it improves their shape so they are in proportion to the rest of the body.

With enlarged breasts also comes in the extra layers of fat, tissue and skin. These extra surfaces are removed and the breasts are brought back to a more natural, comfortable position. The areola (the circle of dark skin around the nipple) can also be made smaller if needed.

Some women who have experienced breast over-enlargement also complain that the nipple and areola have also lost its original position. With breast reduction, the nipple and areoa are moved to a higher position as well.


The technical name used for this procedure is reduction mammaplasty.

Breast reduction surgery is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries practiced in America and side effects are least. This procedure is also among the highest patient satisfaction rate of any cosmetic procedure.

So how do you know if breast reduction is for you? There are quite a number of factors that determine candidacy for breast reduction. As this may vary from individual to individual, it is best that you consult an experienced surgeon, so that you may understand any implications if any. However, the best candidates for breast reduction surgery are mature women whose oversized breasts are actually leading to various health and medical problems, and interfere with their daily routine activities. In certain cases there are many women who cannot sleep well due to the enlargement. Such conditions will result with the patient being more self-conscious as well. So if you find yourself uncomfortable with such enlarged breasts, and it keeps you away from a healthier lifestyle, it is best that you consult a surgeon.


Although the side effects are at minimum for breast reduction surgery, as with any surgery, there are possibilities for complications. So make sure you go over all the details with your surgeon prior to considering such a treatment. We always recommend a board-certified plastic surgeon that can provide information that is specific to your body and health.