Breast reduction surgery is a common procedure on the rise, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). This is likely due to the potential health benefits that come from breast reduction, beyond the physical discomfort caused by large breasts.
To begin with, breast reduction relieves the immediate discomfort of excess weight on the chest. Larger breasts can cause skin irritations where the breasts rub on the upper abdomen. Bras are often uncomfortable and the strain may cause painful indentations in the shoulders. Back pain, poor posture and neck aches are often caused by the added weight of large breasts. Pain at the base of the neck due to forward strain may cause headaches and sometimes migraines. Breast reduction surgery can alleviate much of these symptoms.
Reduction surgeries also have the cosmetic benefit of making the breasts firmer and more evenly proportioned. Breast reduction can also have immediate health improvements not associated with physical pain. The emotional health benefits of breast reduction should not be overlooked. Insecurity in self-image and unwanted attention due to large or disproportionate breasts can lead to anxiety and depression. Reducing and evening out the size of the breasts makes it easier to shop for clothes that fit properly, swimsuits that aren’t unwittingly revealing, promoting a better overall self-esteem, improved mental health, and better quality of life.
Long term benefits of breast reductions should also be considered. By alleviating the strain on the shoulders and neck, breast reduction promotes the long term health of the upper back. As women age, their shoulders often roll forward, causing improper posture and curvature of the spine. Heavier breasts will contribute to this forward hunching, causing numerous health disadvantages. The hunching caused by aging and heavy breasts lead to compression where the shoulder blades and nerves come together and can cause chronic pain. This can also impact the rib cage and even lung function, causing difficulty breathing and shortness of breath.
Women with larger breasts often find aerobic activity uncomfortable and even painful, despite supportive sports bras. Lack of physical activity leads to weight gain and the self-consciousness of unsupportive bras may even lead to depression. Breast reduction removes the superficial excess tissue, resulting in better proportions to the woman’s body and making exercising and exercise apparel more comfortable, which promotes a healthier overall lifestyle.
Sleep is also often improved due to breast reduction surgery. Many sleep positions are uncomfortable due to the strain the added weight is placing on muscles and tendons in the chest. When the excess tissue is removed, there’s more freedom in movement to find the right sleep position. Improved quality of sleep leads to improved overall health and mental well-being.
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, you may be a candidate for breast reduction. Contact St. Charles Plastic Surgery today to set up a consultation.
