Breast Reduction: Is it For You?
  Christie Griffith | Staff Writer

View Feedback | Send this Article | Published 3/21/03



Graphic By: Christie Griffith

There are many reasons a woman might consider breast reduction surgery. Examples for reduction include the following: annoyingly large breasts, dissatisfaction with the look of the breasts, painful indentations on the shoulders from a bra, and reducing the risk of breast cancer. Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammoplasty, removes some tissue and skin from the breast while lifting it in the process. This surgery can also reduce the size of the areola, the area just around the nipple, to make the breast more visually appealing. Though reduction mammoplasty has many benefits, there are also risks involved.

Large breasts can be painful and limit a woman¼s physical activities, such as sports. Sports can be next to impossible with large breasts by making these activities awkward and difficult. Back pain is probably the biggest complaint of large-breasted women, contributing to an already reduced activity level.

Women tend to also be sensitive about their breasts' appearance. Not many women can say they have Ýperfectÿ breasts. Breast reduction can make many women more comfortable and confident with their bodies. Undergoing this procedure can make breasts firmer and lighter.

The number of breast cancer victims grows larger every year. Because the threat of breast cancer seems to be lingering on many women¼s minds, more and more women are becoming increasingly uncomfortable with their breasts and breast size. By reducing breast size a women can reduce her chance of breast cancer by around 30%. For women over fifty, that number jumps to around 50%.

Some problems with breast reduction are bothersome but can be lived with. The most common risk is scarring. Usually, though, the scars fade or completely disappear. Other risks include loss of feeling in the nipples and inability to breastfeed. Some risks directly related to the surgery include infection and bad reactions to the anesthesia. A relatively new form of breast reduction is liposuction, which seems to have fewer risks and is easier on the patient altogether.

Anyone considering breast reduction should always consider every benefit and risk before going through with the surgery. Breast reduction can greatly benefit uncomfortably large breasted women; however, those considering this procedure must always keep in mind that it will have a very large impact on all aspects of their lives.


Responses:
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Name: Christie
Year: Junior
Major: bio
Comments:
It sounds like you are very comfortable with your body Shaggy, I'm glad this article culd help!

Name: John
Comments:
I've noticed the difference shaggy. I just didn't want to embarrass you.

Name: Shaggy
Comments:
My clevage enhancing bra has done wonders for me without surgery.

Name: Greg
Comments:
I'm not sure reduction is for me. LOL

Name: John
Comments:
You never cease to amaze me. Great job on the article, and I'm really impressed with your first shot at making your own graphic, it looks awesome.

Name: Kevin
Comments:
great coverage of an important medical procedure some women need! Thanks for writing!

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