7 Reasons to Consider Breast Reduction
Women with disproportionately large breasts know all too well the physical and emotional strain that can come with a bigger bust. Breast reduction surgery can relieve chronic discomfort and help women feel more confident in their bodies.
Richmond board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sharline Aboutanos specializes in breast procedures and shares the top reasons women consider breast reduction—and how life-changing this procedure can be.
1. Relief from chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain
One of the most common reasons women seek breast reduction is to relieve persistent physical discomfort. Heavy breast tissue can strain the upper body and lead to chronic neck, shoulder, and back pain, and supporting larger breasts often causes deep grooves from bra straps digging into the shoulders. A breast reduction reduces the size and weight of the breasts to give patients lasting relief from these symptoms and significantly improve daily comfort.
2. Improved posture and mobility
Over time, the weight of large breasts can cause the shoulders to round forward and curve the spine unnaturally, worsening pain and limiting mobility. Dr. Aboutanos uses breast reduction surgery to help improve posture and allow for a greater range of motion. Patients report that activities like standing, walking, and exercising feel more natural and enjoyable after their breast reduction.
3. Easier physical activity
Many types of exercise can be difficult for women with large breasts. High-impact activities like running and jumping are particularly challenging, and even strength training can be frustrating when the movements cause pain or make you feel self-conscious. Supportive activewear has expanded to include larger bust sizes, but it can be pricey and may not be sufficiently size-inclusive. After a breast reduction in Richmond, most women gain confidence and enthusiasm for movement, which opens the door to a more active and healthy lifestyle that may have felt out of reach before surgery.
4. Better clothing fit and style options
Finding flattering and comfortable clothing can be nearly impossible when your bust size overwhelms your frame. Many women feel limited in their clothing choices and often resort to styles that hide the rest of their silhouette to fit their chest. During your consultation, Dr. Aboutanos will help you decide how much of your breasts you want reduced to create a more proportional figure. One of the most exciting aspects of breast reductions is getting to choose from a wider variety of clothing styles and having a more enjoyable shopping experience.
5. Relief from skin irritation and rashes
Large breasts trap heat and moisture in the fold beneath the breasts and cause skin irritation, chafing, and sometimes infections. This can be especially uncomfortable in warmer months or during physical activity, and there are few, if any, effective treatments to alleviate these concerns long term—except breast reduction. Reducing breast volume and repositioning the remaining tissue (part of a breast lift) to sit naturally higher on the chest improves airflow and reduces the likelihood of skin problems.
6. Enhanced breast shape and symmetry
In addition to reducing volume, breast reduction reshapes the breasts to create a firmer, perkier shape and correct asymmetry. Breasts are often slightly different sizes naturally, and sometimes, especially in large breasts, significant differences in size are very apparent. Breast reduction can make the breasts more even.
Another benefit of breast reduction techniques is the ability to reposition and resize the nipple-areolar complex. Once the desired amount of breast tissue is removed, Dr. Aboutanos places the nipple-areolar complex (which can be made more proportionate if desired) in the center of the newly created breast mound to ensure a natural and proportionate look.
7. Improved self-confidence and quality of life
Breast reductions boast a 97% Worth It rating on RealSelf and for good reason: the emotional and psychological impact of living with overly large breasts is often underestimated. Many patients report years of feeling self-conscious, avoiding photos, or struggling with unwanted attention. Breast reduction can be a liberating experience that helps you feel more like yourself, with a body that supports your lifestyle and reflects how you want to feel.
Considering breast reduction in Richmond, VA?
Dr. Sharline Aboutanos is a female plastic surgeon in Richmond who prioritizes how you want to look and your overall well-being. She works closely with you to personalize your breast reduction to best achieve your goals. We invite you to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Aboutanos at our Richmond office by calling (804) 355-3410 or contact her online.