Breast Reduction for Medical Reasons vs Cosmetic Reasons

Breast reduction is generally regarded as an elective procedure that can refine the appearance of a woman's breasts, but many women require this surgery as it can significantly improve their quality of life. Large breasts that carry excess weight can have many detrimental side effects including persistent physical pain, limit physical activities, lead to skin irritation and a significant impact on overall confidence. Understanding whether a breast reduction procedure is undertaken due to cosmetic reasons or for medical reasons will help in determining if breast reduction surgery is the correct course of treatment.

Breast reduction is a personalised procedure with various methods that aim to not only relieve pain but also to create balance, definition and an improved proportion to the body.

Understanding Breast Reduction Surgery

A breast reduction procedure is also known as a reduction mammoplasty and is an operation that surgically removes excess tissue, fat and skin from the breasts to make them smaller and better proportional to the size and weight of the body. In addition, excess tissue is carefully removed to reshape and reposition the nipples to ensure a natural appearance.

The reason why women decide to undertake breast reduction surgery may vary; some opt for it to relieve them of the symptoms that are experienced due to over large breasts, others to achieve a better physical proportion or boost confidence.

Medical Reasons for Breast Reduction

Many patients view breast reduction as medically beneficial for the management of various physical symptoms caused by over large breasts.

Chronic Back, Neck, and Shoulder Pain

Persistent pain in the neck, shoulders, and upper back are the most frequent symptoms associated with over large breasts. The constant weight of large breasts puts significant stress on the muscles of the back and spine which may result in increased pain over time.

Shoulder Grooves from Bra Straps

Women who have overly large breasts are forced to wear supportive bras with broad shoulder straps. Unfortunately many women find that over time the straps cause significant indentations into their shoulders due to the excessive pressure of holding the weight of their breasts.

Skin Irritation and Rashes

The extra skin in the crease underneath the breasts accumulates moisture and can lead to skin infections, irritations and rashes which is particularly noticeable during warm weather.

Limited Physical Activity

Women with large breasts may not be able to participate in sporting activities or exercise and find day to day tasks like walking or running difficult to carry out without pain and discomfort. The restriction of physical activity may lead to gain in body weight.

Poor Posture

Carrying too much weight in the front of the body can cause poor posture, hunched over shoulders and muscle fatigue, which can affect spinal alignment and overall mobility.

Cosmetic Reasons for Breast Reduction

Although health concerns are the more common reason to undergo this type of procedure, breast reduction is also popular with many women looking to improve their physique, proportion and overall body shape.

Better Body Proportion

Some women may naturally have breasts which are disproportionate to the rest of their body. The surgical reduction of breasts can restore body balance and proportionality to the body’s figure.

Increased Confidence

Many women who feel unhappy or embarrassed about their breast size experience a blow to their self-esteem and overall confidence. After surgery the improved body shape may lead to improved self confidence which enhances how they feel in clothes or during social activities.

Improved Clothing Options

Finding clothing which fits well and is aesthetically pleasing can be a challenge for many women who wear large cup sizes. Following the reduction procedure many patients are pleased with the range of fashion items they are now able to purchase and wear.

Enhanced Lifestyle

Many women report feeling lighter, more energetic and more mobile after their procedure, which in turn improves the quality of their life and their ability to participate in more activities.

Medical vs Cosmetic Breast Reduction

While medical and cosmetic factors for breast reduction surgery are usually thought of separately, they can frequently be closely linked. Many patients will receive physical benefits from surgery intended to improve their breast size such as decreased pain and better posture, and may even feel the procedure was more than cosmetic at the end of their experience.

It may be more helpful to view breast reduction surgery not as a cosmetic treatment or a medical procedure but rather as a surgical option that improves overall well being and enhances personal appearance simultaneously.

Recovery After Breast Reduction

Recovery from the surgery varies in time for different patients but the majority are typically able to resume their daily activities within a week or two of undergoing the procedure. The swelling will slowly start to reduce over a few weeks, as will the bruising, and the final result can gradually be appreciated in line with healing. It is very important to wear a supportive surgical bra and follow the surgeons instructions carefully to ensure a good recovery and best long-term result.

Factors That Influence the Procedure

Every breast reduction procedure is highly personalised to accommodate each patient’s body size and shape. The method of reduction undertaken will depend on a number of factors.

Breast Size

For those who wish to reduce the size of their breasts by a larger degree, further procedures may be necessary.

Skin Elasticity

The skin’s ability to elasticise supports the shape and contour of the breasts.

Overall Health

General health and smoking history are essential factors for successful surgical outcomes and rapid recovery.

Surgical Technique

Depending on the reduction desired the technique of breast reduction may vary between different patients.

Cost Considerations

Patients frequently enquire about Breast reduction surgery cost South Africa when planning their operation. The cost will fluctuate according to the degree of complexity, experience of the plastic surgeon and hospital facilities. A personal consultation will be necessary to receive your treatment plan and cost quotation which is based on your specific needs and desires.

Final Thoughts

The decision to undergo a breast reduction is a very personal one, be that for medical reasons or solely for aesthetic improvement. Medical benefits may include lessening of pain and other debilitating symptoms, increased freedom of physical activity, improving proportion and, in turn, quality of life. If you are considering a breast reduction then an experienced plastic surgeon consultation is your starting point.

At YourBreasts we believe in treating each individual with dedicated attention and care, from their initial appointment, throughout surgery and during their recovery and, we feel, this is reflected in the quality and natural results of our treatments and in our happy and well-cared-for patients.