What are the Health Benefits of a Breast Reduction?

More than 90,000 women in the US seek breast reduction surgery each year for relief from physical and emotional burdens. Carrying excessive breast weight can cause a number of health problems, including chronic headaches, neck and back pain, posture issues, skin irritation, and restricted breathing. In addition to these physical symptoms, women with very large breasts often experience emotional distress from unwanted attention, trouble finding properly fitting clothes, and reduced ability to exercise or participate in sports. 

Breast reduction surgery aims to relieve these issues by removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin to reach a breast size in proportion with a woman’s body. The outcome often brings significant improvement to both physical comfort and self-confidence. Ahmed Nasser, M.D., a physician at The Plastic Surgery Center, weighs in on the potential benefits of breast reduction surgery and why more women are opting for this surgery as a solution for improving their quality of life and overall comfort.

What is Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction surgery, also called reduction mammaplasty, removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to achieve a breast size more in proportion with a woman’s body. The procedure not only reshapes and lifts the breasts but also repositions the nipple and areola into a higher position for improved breast contour. Candidates for breast reduction commonly have persistent symptoms like neck, shoulder, or back pain due to oversized breasts or significant asymmetry between breasts. The best outcomes occur for women with relatively stable weights who do not plan future pregnancies. This is because significant weight fluctuation can impact the results of breast reduction. 

Potential complications from breast reduction include bleeding, fluid accumulation, poor wound healing, loss of nipple sensation, loss of ability to breastfeed, and asymmetry in breasts. There will also be permanent scarring around the areola and lower breast crease, often vertically down from the areola to the crease. Working closely with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon can help reduce certain risks. The procedure typically takes 2-3 hours as an outpatient surgery under general anesthesia, followed by 4-6 weeks of recovery time.

Why Women Choose to Have Breast Reduction Surgery

Dr. Nasser states, “Breast reduction surgery helps alleviate significant emotional, psychological, and physical burdens that women with overly large breasts often struggle with. Many of our patients choose to undergo this procedure to relieve chronic pain, unwanted attention, exercise limitations, skin irritation, breathing issues, and self-confidence problems. It can also address spine alignment issues and chronic headaches.” 

Breast reduction not only aims to reduce physical discomfort and symptoms but also can greatly improve emotional health, self-esteem, and quality of life.

Benefits of Breast Reduction Surgery

"Breast reduction surgery offers a wide range of benefits that can profoundly impact an individual's overall well-being,” explains Dr. Nasser. “The advantages extend far beyond just the physical changes – this surgery also helps improve the emotional, psychological, and social aspects of life.”

According to Dr. Nasser, many patients report that this procedure has been transformative and enhanced their quality of life in ways they hadn't even anticipated.

Breast reduction surgery can help individuals achieve the following: 

Reduced back, neck, and shoulder pain
Carrying excess breast weight puts strain on the neck, shoulders, and upper and mid-back. Breast reduction alleviates this strain and pain by removing heavy breast tissue.

Improved posture
Hunching forward to balance large breasts can cause poor posture over time. Reducing breast size allows women to stand taller and straighter, decreasing the risk of spine issues and alignment problems in the long term.

Increased comfort during physical activity. 
Large breasts make many activities, like cardio exercises, difficult or painful. Breast reduction provides freedom to exercise more vigorously with reduced breast movement and discomfort. The increased ability to be active has significant overall health benefits. Many women report improved ability to play sports they enjoy after surgery.

Improved symmetry
Many women have one breast that is significantly larger than the other. Aside from cosmetic concerns of asymmetry, a large size difference between breasts can cause physical strain, restricted movement, and poor posture. Balanced breasts not only boost self-confidence but also allow bras, swimsuits, and clothes to fit more comfortably.

"Breast reduction surgery is more than just a physical transformation,” explains Dr. Nasser. “This procedure empowers women to live more comfortably, confidently, and actively. By alleviating pain, improving posture, and restoring balance, this surgery allows women to fully embrace the activities and moments that matter most."

Schedule a consultation today with Dr. Nasser by calling 877-245-1789.

Click here to learn more about breast reduction surgery at The Plastic Surgery Center,

    ###

ABOUT THE BREAST CENTER OF NEW JERSEY
The Breast Center of New Jersey brings together world-renowned specialists across breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment disciplines to simplify, streamline, and improve access to life-changing care. Visit BCNJ.com to learn more about The Breast Center of New Jersey. Call 833-200-4009 to make an appointment.