Some women choose to have breast reduction surgery for cosmetic reasons. However, some women need to reduce the size of their breasts to improve their posture and support spinal health. Even for cosmetic reasons, there are criteria a surgeon must meet to constitute the need to perform surgery. These criteria are often used to determine whether a medical reason can be substantiated to receive insurance coverage.
Appearance of Breasts
There are some physical characteristics of breasts that support the need for a woman to have breast reduction surgery. Having breasts that are too large in proportion to the frame of a woman's body, having heavy, large breasts with nipples or areolas that point downward or having one breast that is noticeably larger than the other are all examples of requirements for electing to have breast reduction surgery.
Physical Symptoms
In addition to aesthetic preference, a plastic surgeon may require that certain physical symptoms exist. Some women experience chronic pain in the back, neck or shoulders due to the weight of their breasts. Skin irritation under the breasts commonly occurs given the weight of the breasts and their tendency to perspire underneath. Many women struggle to find a bra that adequately supports their breasts. Some women wear bras that are too tight, causing indentations in the shoulders from the shoulder straps of the bra.
Lifestyle Observations
A plastic surgeon will interview a patient about their lifestyle to identify areas that are inhibited by a woman's breast size. For instance, many women find it difficult to participate in certain activities or sports given the size of their breasts. Additionally, a plastic surgeon will seek to gain an overall sense of how a woman feels about the size of her breasts, what size she prefers and how this change will affect her overall health and lifestyle. These factors alone are not enough to substantiate breast reduction surgery but are taken into account with the previously mentioned requirements.
Age
There are no definite age requirements, but the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery recommends that women not explore the opportunity of having a breast reduction until after age 18 to help ensure that the breasts are fully developed.
Member Comments