Medical Reasons for a Breast Reduction

Breast Reduction

Despite what stereotypes would have people believe, overly large, heavy breasts can have a significant negative impact on a woman’s quality of life. Having breasts so large that they are a hindrance is known as macromastia. Macromastia can eventually lead to a variety of medical problems, and many women with the condition choose to have breast reduction surgery for this reason. Here are some of the medical issues that can be caused by macromastia.

Back and Neck Pain

Heavy breasts pull downward on the muscles and connective tissues of the neck and upper torso, often leading to chronic neck and back pain. Furthermore, the weight of large breasts encourages poor posture when sitting or standing. This can cause weakening of the muscles along the spine and may even cause inflammation and degradation the spine itself over time. In addition, as a woman ages, her posture may become permanently slumped due to large breasts, sometimes resulting in the development of a “hump back.”

Skin Problems

Large breasts create significant skin folds where warmth and moisture can collect. When this is combined with minimal air circulation, it enables the growth of fungi and bacteria that lead to painful and unsightly skin conditions similar to diaper rash. In some cases, breasts may also be so large that their weight disturbs proper blood flow, resulting in ulceration and necrosis (stasis ulcers) of breast tissues.

Psychological Concerns

It’s not uncommon for women to seek breast reduction surgery to solve psychological and emotional issues related to their large breasts. Many of these women report feeling as if they’re consistently objectified or never taken seriously because of their breast size. These women also frequently find themselves to be the subjects of unwanted male attention and even jealously and hostility from other women. Unsurprisingly, this can lead to considerable mental and emotional distress, possibly to the point where a woman’s professional, academic, and personal lives are severely affected.

Shoulder Grooves

As any woman with large breasts will tell you, it’s necessary to wear a bra almost constantly. Unfortunately, this can be a problem on its own. A bra effectively transfers breasts’ weight to the shoulders. This means that the straps cut into the skin, and the thinner they are or the longer the bra is worn, the worse it is. Besides causing pain, this issue can also result in skin injuries that don’t heal well because it’s necessary to continue wearing a bra regardless.

Exercise Difficulties

Regular exercise is part of a healthy lifestyle that reduces the risk of numerous diseases. However, women with macromastia often face insurmountable challenges when engaging in physical activity. Large breasts can bounce and jiggle painfully during exercise, even when they’re restrained. Furthermore, they tend to limit a woman’s range of motion, making some exercises less effective and more likely to cause injury.

Contrary to popular belief, large breasts are a source of frustration, discomfort, and health problems for many women. If you feel that your health and quality of life are being hindered by macromastia, you may be an ideal candidate for breast reduction surgery. Contact the office of Dr. Steven Warnock today to schedule your consultation. Our medical team will work with you to help you get the size and shape you’re looking for.